Ocean Isle Beach, NC
So you have the sunscreen but are looking for a destination to soak up the sun? Then look no further than Ocean Isle Beach located in North Carolina. This vacation spot is sought after by many each year and after visiting several times, I can agree!
This location screams vaca if I have ever seen one. The first thing you will notice as you arrive is the one and only HUGE bridge that connects it to the mainland. Be patient here, especially if you are planning on arriving on a Friday. Most rentals for the island whether it be for a house, hotel, or condo, are from Friday to Friday. When booking, you can obviously reserve these places according to what you need. After visiting a few times however I have noticed that most people are coming in on Fridays. I warned you!
Once you do arrive at your place of stay, be sure to sit back and relax, I mean you are at the beach! Whether it be swimming, walking on the beach, or reading a book, the choice is up to you. On the island itself there are so many activities to do. There is a mini golf course, restaurants, and shops scattered all throughout. There are also rental stores which have kayaks, paddle boards, and bikes. If you are wanting to do some souvenir and clothes shopping, there are shops for that as well. There is something for everyone on the island, you just need to decide which is for you.
(If you are looking for groceries, those stores are on the mainland right before you get onto the island. There are also liquor, dollar, and insurance shops located in the same area as well.)
Now let's talk about my favorite topic: FOOD. The food out around this area of North Carolina is banging. The top three for me were: Ocean Isle Fish Company, Beach Burgers, and Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille.
If you are looking for a restaurant for the family then I would recommend going to Ocean Isle Fish Company. The atmosphere is great, the servers are efficient, and the food is delicious. This restaurant is also right on the inner coastal waterway so the views are beautiful all around. I will say since this is one of the BIG restaurants on the island, call ahead for a reservation. Everyone and their mothers are flocking to this food spot so be prepared to wait. On the plus side, there is a souvenir shop and other little stores attached to the building to kill time.
Next up, is Beach Burgers. To be honest, this was my favorite grab and go place we visited. This is a tiny hole in the wall place that serves some of the best burgers I have had. The burgers are juicy, the fries hot, and the people are super friendly. Plus you can call ahead and pick up which is always nice after a day full of swimming. This is a local type of place where you order at a window and either take it with you or eat it at some tables in the back. So the choice is up to you!
Alright, I saved the most expensive for last, Jinks Creek Waterfront Grille. Although it might be on the pricier side, don't let that discourage you. This restaurant is so worth the time and money you will spend here. Located on the island, Jink's is a place that is incredible. From the food to the drinks, everything and I mean everything was delicious at this location. If you are looking for a more authentic cajun dish then you have to try the shrimp and grits. That is what I ordered while I was there and that dish was the right balance of spice and savory. Just thinking about that dish has my mouth watering for it! Also if you are looking for one of the most refreshing drinks I have ever had then please try the Lime and a Coconut. When I say it tasted like I was drinking a key lime pie of perfection I am not joking. The drinks and food at this restaurant do take some time to arrive at your table but be patient, the wait is worth it! Also if you are lucky you can also see the chef walking around and open for conversation. My dad was so pleased with the food that he went and thanked the chef, which he has NEVER done before, just saying.
As always here I am ranting on and on about the food when I haven't even talked about the beach here at Ocean Isle. This destination is a great option for those looking for a quieter beach to visit. When comparing this location to somewhere such as Panama City Beach, I would choose this one. Unless I am in a partying mood I mean... The beach is clean, monitored, and less crowded. Also when it is low tide you are able to walk/swim to the neighboring island of Sunset Beach. While I was there, I did walk down and was planning on crossing over to the other island but I had my electronics, so no. This beach is so relaxing to be at where everyone minds their own business and chills. On the opposite side of the beach is the inner coastal waterway which is where you can go kayaking or fishing.
Ocean Isle Beach is a great vacation destination spot for you and your family. Geared more for families, this island has so many different options to choose from. So if you are ever in the area then be sure to check out this spectacular island located in North Carolina!