Visit Ocean Isle Beach, NC

There’s so much to do in Ocean Isle Beach, NC!

Ocean Isle Beach is a family-friendly beach town with a laid back, casual atmosphere and lots to do for families or groups of all ages. Southern Living named Ocean Isle Beach the “South’s Best Tiny Town in 2018,”and USA Today Readers voted it the best beach in North Carolina in 2024 and 2026. During peak season there are many free and paid events, live music , festivals, and even hometown-style parades with local golf cart decorating contests, fire trucks, and more on the main thoroughfare. Sunrises and sunsets can be some of the best you will see anywhere; you can see both from our south-facing shores. In addition to sunbathing and beach life, there’s also golf, with 26 area courses within a twenty-mile radius. Whether you charter a boat and head for the deep seas, fish the intracoastal waterway or pier, the fishing will leave you hooked!

See a listing of things to do below.

Museum of Coastal Carolina

From live touch tank feedings to virtual reality experiences, the Museum of Coastal Carolina offers a changing schedule of programs to inspire curiosity in learners from 2 to 92 through interactive exhibits, fossil displays, and live animal habitats. Learn more about the flora and fauna of North Carolina’s coastal plain and the aquatic life that lives just off the shore through fun, interactive exhibits, saltwater aquariums, a live touch tank, and family programs. We have several galleries that feature live fish, turtles, snakes, and a touch tank with saltwater species to educate and entertain the entire family. The Sandbar Lecture Series brings local experts to speak about topics ranging from our coastal environment to Outer Banks history.

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Address: 21 East 2nd Street, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: 910-579-1016

Things to do near the Museum of Coastal Carolina

Odell Williamson Municipal Airport

If you have a pilot license, the Odell Williamson Municipal Airport (FAA LID: 60J), formerly known as Ocean Isle Airport, is a public use general aviation airport serving Ocean Isle Beach. Located just one mile north of OIB and six miles southwest of Shallotte, this small airport features one paved asphalt runway and offers tie-downs at a monthly or yearly rate. Ocean Isle Air Tours offers scenic tours that depart from here.

Address: 6080 Beach Dr SW, Shallotte, NC 28470
Elevation: 33′
Phone: (910) 579-6152

Intracoastal Waterway Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The calm waters of the intracoastal waterway offer an easygoing way to explore the coastal landscape. Local outfitters provide rentals for kayaks and paddleboards, while others offer tours, making it accessible for beginners and families looking to enjoy the marshes, wildlife, and scenic shoreline.

The Carolina School of Surf

Learn to surf with a private lesson, youth group or adult group with this popular school. The School also offers surf camps and will get you off on the right foot on a stand up paddle board.

Address: 44 E 1st St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 713-9283

OIB Community Center

Planning a larger event at Ocean Isle Beach? Consider Reserving the Community Center at 44 East First Street, Ocean Isle Beach, NC. The Community Center may be reserved for private functions such as birthday parties and weddings. The facility area available for rental consists of a 1100-square-foot-covered deck with a capacity of 85 people, restroom facilities, and kitchen with refrigerator, microwave and sink. For questions or to reserve the Community Center, contact OIB Town Hall at 910-579-2166 or at 111 Causeway Drive for additional information.

Address: 44 E 1st St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-4394

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Ocean Isle Beach (OIB) Pier

A classic part of the Ocean Isle experience, the pier is a relaxed spot for fishing, sightseeing, or simply taking in wide views of the Atlantic. Visitors can rent gear, grab a quick bite, or enjoy a quiet walk out over the water—especially popular at sunrise and sunset. While at the pier, you can enjoy food from The Pier Grill, a sweet treat from the Ice Cream Parlor, kids will enjoy the Arcade, pick up something from the Gift Shop, or enjoy the views from The Backyard. 

Address: 1 W First St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-3095

Fishing Charters

There are multiple companies within a short drive that offer boat charters from Ocean Isle Beach for both inshore and offshore guided tours. Make it a memorable trip with a few friends or family and book a charter from Ocean Isle Beach, Calabash or Little River just across the South Carolina state line.

Ocean Isle Fishing Center (OIFC)

The Ocean Isle Fishing Center is a one-stop-shop for fishing tackle, marine supplies, bait, ice, fuel, and more. Charter Fishing is available for offshore or inshore, with boat rentals available. Clothing and gifts feature local and national brand names and coveted OIFC logoed merch.

Address: 65 Causeway Dr, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-3474

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Ocean Isle Beach Super Track and Axe Shack at Tiki Recreation Center

With a variety of activities to suit everyone, the recreation center hosts three fantastic businesses: OIB Super Track, The Axe Shack, and Tiki Golf Carts & Island Home Services. From go-kart racing and axe throwing, to renting a golf cart for cruising the beach in comfort and style, the rec center has you covered!

Address: 6428 Beach Dr SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-1140

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The Swamp Park Outdoor Adventure Center

Looking for a memorable experience for the more adventurous among your group? The Swamp Park offers Zipline Tours high in the forest canopy, Guided ATV Tours ages 8 (to ride) and at least 16 years of age (to drive), an Aerial Adventure Park with 53 different challenging obstacles, and Swamp Boat Eco-Tours where you’ll experience nature and history at the same time.

Address: 5550 Watts Rd SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 687-6100

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River Country Mini Golf

Fun for kids and adults, River Country Mini Golf is conveniently located across the street from Ocean Isle Beach Fishing Pier and just a short walk to the beach. This 18-hole par 2 course features several animal statues, including an eighteen-foot giraffe, baby giraffe, elephant, zebra, hippo, and alligator. A lovely river water feature spans the property with six crossing bridges, and a large deck with bench seating.

Address: 1 Causeway Dr, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-2030

Town Center Park

Located next to the Museum of Coastal Carolina along Second Street and Causeway Drive, Town Center Park hosts concerts throughout the summer and special activities all year long. You’ll also find picnic shelters, basketball courts, pickleball courts, a playground and a 9/11 Memorial.

Address: 11 E 2nd St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-2166

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Carolinas Coastal Adventure Tours

Book a guided tour aboard a two-seat CraigCat powerboat a fully narrated and guided tour lasting about 2.5 hours. Tours start in the Brunswick Barrier Islands just minutes from Ocean Isle and Sunset Beach. See the sights of the barrier islands and then cruise at high speed across the intracoastal waterway.

Address: CCAT Tours Mobile Office, 2000 Sommersett Rd SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 880-1943

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Coastal Wine and Tap

This little bar at the beach is a gathering place for locals with live music on many evenings, small bites and even a glimpse of the ocean from the deck.

Address: 20B E 2nd St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 393-2125

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Makai Brewing Company and Taproom

The big yellow building on highway 17 has the spirit of the islands inside. It’s the area’s only brewery. Grab a sandwich or some snacks at the Butcher of Brunswick next door and settle in for a pint or two.

Address: 5850 Ocean Hwy W #1, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-2739

Where to Eat near the Museum of Coastal Carolina

Beaches Burgers

Tunes from the 1960s play on the speakers inside and out at this OIB tradition. Limited seating, with table service, is offered inside, but you can also order at the window to-go or eat at the tables out back. Burgers made it into the name but the hot dogs aren’t bad either.

Address: 6551 Beach Dr SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-7777

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Feast OIB

A varied menu offers shrimp burgers, pasta, chops and more. Eat in or plan an evening at home with one of their chef-prepared meals to cook yourself.

Address: 125 Causeway Dr, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-3663

Maria’s Pizzeria

This popular Italian eatery has a vast menu of favorites as well as pizza, stromboli and more. Diners get a discount on doughnuts made next door at Spilt Milk.

Address: 120 Causeway Dr. Unit #7, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-3233

Sugar Shack

You will want to make reservations for this popular Jamaican restaurant! It offers excellent food with Caribbean flavor and flair.

Address: 1609 Hale Beach Rd SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-3844

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The Ocean Isle Fish Company

This restaurant offers on-the-water dining with daily fresh-caught fish. Enjoy a delicious meal while watching fishing boats arrive to the dock offloading their catch. Incredible views from the Gmack Tiki Bar upper deck that overlooks all of Ocean Isle Beach, the marsh and the Atlantic Ocean.

Address: 65 Causeway Dr, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-5855

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Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille

Overlooking a quiet marsh, Jinks Creek is known for its scenic setting and relaxed coastal menu. Guests come for fresh seafood, steaks, and one of the best sunset views in the area, making it a popular choice for evening dining.

Address: 14 Causeway Dr, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-9997

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Drift Coffee and Kitchen

Drift blends a modern coffeehouse atmosphere with a thoughtful menu of breakfast and lunch options. Known for quality coffee, fresh ingredients, and a laid-back coastal vibe, it’s a go-to stop for a slower start to the day.

Address: 20 E 2nd St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 236-3033

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Castaway Grill

A longtime local favorite, Castaway Grill offers a casual setting with a menu that ranges from hearty breakfasts to burgers and seafood. It’s a reliable, no-frills spot that captures the easygoing feel of the beach.

Address: 112 Causeway Drive, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-7788

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Sharky’s Waterfront Bar and Grill

With a location right on the water, Sharky’s pairs classic beach fare with sweeping views of the Intracoastal. The menu focuses on seafood favorites, and the outdoor seating makes it a popular place to unwind after a day on the beach.

Address: 61 Causeway Drive, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-9177

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OIB Surf and Java

Part surf shop, part coffee stop, this local spot combines beach gear with casual refreshments. Visitors can browse apparel and accessories while grabbing a coffee before heading out to the beach.

Address: 6278 Beach Dr. SW STE 5, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-6277

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Causeway Gourmet

“I’ve never had a bad meal there,” said one regular Causeway customer. Soups and salads for lunch give way to more substantial entrees of chicken, salmon, or crab cakes for dinner.

Address: 100 Causeway Dr. #7, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 575-1084

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Pelican’s Perch

Located across the street from the Museum, Pelican’s Perch is part sports bar, part island club. With a wide selection of menu items, it’s one of the few restaurants open year-round.

Address: 8 E 2nd St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-0102

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Shaka Laka Bowls

What’s a Shaka Laka bowl, you may ask. Using supercharged açaí berry or other purees as a base bowls are topped with fruits and other items of your choice.

Address: 11 Causeway Dr, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 393-0006

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The Dawg House Grill

Hot dog variations are a staple here, but the menu is varied and includes pasta, chicken, fried fish and more.

Address: 6415 Beach Dr. SW, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: (910) 579-8834

Shopping and Services near the Museum of Coastal Carolina

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Groceries and Fresh Seafood

If you prefer to cook at your home-away-from-home, try some of the local ingredients. Captain Jacks Seafood has the freshest local catches from shrimp and snapper to seasonal oysters and more. Nearby, Island Seafood also carries a fresh selection of your favorite seafood. With a full farm and store in Supply, Heritage Fresh Market operates a seasonal annex on Beach Drive with veggies and other local products.

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Retail and Beach Supplies

In addition to large retailers such as Tsunami and Eagles, Ocean Isle also has a small selection of retailers with a more local focus. Stop in at Beach Life locations both on the island and on the mainland. Check out Surf Unlimited on the island or the Curious Mermaid in the small shopping center at the corner of Causeway and Beach Drive. Coastal Carolina Games and Puzzles offers just the thing for family night.

Golf Cart Rentals

If you want to park the car for the week, there are a number of golf cart rental companies. Bazen Golf Carts will deliver your street-ready cart upon your arrival at your OIB home. Operating golf carts on local streets requires the driver to be licensed and they remain on streets with speed limits under 45 mph.

Visit Sunset Beach, NC!

Looking for more things to do near Ocean Isle Beach, NC? Checkout our other listings for Sunset Beach, NC. We hope to see you soon!

Visit Sunset Beach, NCRight-open Right-open

 

MUSEUM OF COASTAL CAROLINA
21 East 2nd Street
Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Phone: 910-579-1016
Email the Museum
Museum Directions

September 3–November 7, 2026
Thursday-Saturday, 10am-4pm
Also open September 6 and 7 for Labor Day and October 11-12 for Indigenous People’s Day
Sandbar Lecture Series: Second Thursday, 5:30pm – September and October

Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time.

June 1–August 30, 2025
Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm (Until 7 pm Tuesday and Thursday)
Sunday, Noon-4pm
Sandbar Lecture Series: Every Tuesday, 5:30pm – June, July, August (Except August 25)
Snakes Alive!: Thursday, 6pm – June, July, August

Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time.

November 12–December 31, 2026
Thursday-Saturday, 10am-4pm
Sunday, Noon-4pm
Also open December 28-31
Sandbar Lecture Series: Second Thursday, 5:30pm – November and December
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time.

January 14–March 27, 2027
Thursday-Saturday, 10am-4pm
Also open January 17-18 for MLK Day and February 14-15 for President’s Day

Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time.

March 29–May 30, 2027
Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm
Sunday, Noon-4pm
Sandbar Lecture Series: Second Tuesday, 5:30pm – April and May
Closed Easter Sunday

Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time.

Visit the Museum Site

INGRAM PLANETARIUM
7625 High Market Street
Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Phone: 910-575-0033
Email the Planetarium
Planetarium Directions
Doors open 30 mins before the first showtime.

September 3–December 31, 2026
Dome Shows: Thursday-Saturday 11am, Noon, 1, 2 and 3pm
Laser Shows: Friday and Saturday 6 and 7pm
Also open September 7 for Labor Day, October 11-12 for Indigenous People’s Day and December 28-31
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

March 30-August 30, 2026
Dome Shows: Monday-Saturday 11am, Noon, 1, 2 and 3pm
Laser Shows: Thursday-Saturday 6 and 7pm

January 14–March 27, 2026
Dome Shows: Thursday-Saturday 11am, Noon, 1, 2 and 3pm
Laser Shows: Friday and Saturday 6 and 7pm
Also open January 17 and 18 for MLK Day and February 14-15 for President’s Day

Visit the Planetarium Site

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