Coastal Retreats

When blasted with 30-degree mornings, I always find myself thinking about the warmer temperatures that are just a few weeks or months ahead (depending on where you live). And when dreaming about sunny skies and balmy breezes, my mind, as most people’s, inevitably wanders to windows-open road trips to the beach. Brunswick Islands, N.C., is a perfect escape — natural settings and a focus on preserving local plant and wildlife provide a welcome alternative to a hotel-lined shore.
Brunswick Islands’ string of beaches is the ideal destination for an all-American road trip. The beachscape here is refreshingly natural, with enough of the quintessential weathered boardwalks and sea grass-topped dunes to leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into a Winslow Homer painting. Local culture emphasizes those things that make small-town beach vacations great — boating, fishing and fresh seafood served up at independent restaurants.

One of the best ways to experience the islands is by visiting one of the nature preserves. Check out coastal forests and lowland swamps at Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve, or get an up-close-and-personal look at carnivorous plants (think Venus Flytraps) at Green Swamp Preserve and orchids at Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve. Each of these spots also boasts excellent birdwatching opportunities, with the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker topping the list of the rare birds you might see. Bird enthusiasts should also take a trip to Sunset Beach, where you’ll find Bird Island, an undeveloped barrier island accessible only by foot and only during low tide. Reddish Egrets, one of the rarest large wading birds, Wood Storks and other threatened species thrive on this protected island. Informational tours covering everything from beachcombing to wildlife and history are offered at 9 a.m. every Wednesday through August.

The Carolina coastal area is well known for its preservation of local cuisine, and the Brunswick Islands are no exception. Our Brunswick blogger, Liz Mitchell, shares her knowledge of local food and food events here. Check out her latest entry for information about the Brunswick Stew Cook-Off taking place January 30, and if you haven’t already read it, check out her December 21 blog for an insider’s perspective on the best restaurants in the area — a sure bet for visitors at any time of year.

Those considering a trip to the area would do well to visit its events site, which will clue you in on everything from the Days at the Docks festival on Holden Beach April 24 - 25 to Museum Ships Weekend at Eagles Island June 5 - 6. Fishing fanatics will find a number of opportunities to indulge in their passion.

Between its tranquil beaches and vibrant culture, Brunswick Islands is a great option for people — like me — looking to sit back, relax and spend a little time exploring one of the East Coast’s most natural shorelines.