This winter, keep cozy on the coast of North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands with these cocoa and coffee spots. Whether you plan to enjoy a warm mug indoors or while on a winter beach walk, our picks are sure to keep you nice and toasty this season.
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OIB Surf & Java – Ocean Isle Beach
Located on the mainland of Ocean Isle Beach for over 10 years, OIB Surf and Java is a community staple serving espresso-based coffees and hot chocolate. The boho-chic aesthetic adds warmth to even the chilliest days at the beach. Pair your warm beverage with a homemade muffin and take it to go or stay in-store and explore the apparel side of the shop.
The Coffee Cottage in Calabash serves coffees, hot chocolate, and fresh baked pastries.
Coffee Cottage – Calabash
You know you’re in for a cozy spot when “cottage” is in the name. The Coffee Cottage in Calabash is the perfect place to warm up on a winter day. Grab a seat in one of the comfy armchairs or grab a small table in the cottage’s rear nook. The Coffee Cottage is quaint, cute, and complete with a menu of seasonal espresso-based coffees. Hot chocolate is also standard on the menu.
Moody Bean – Southport
Needful Things & Moody Bean Book Café brings coffee and books together under one roof for an especially cozy winter hideaway in downtown Southport. Peruse the store shelves full of national bestsellers and works by local authors. Then grab a seasonal coffee and a comfy seat. Nothing beats a coffee and a book!
The Purple Onion Cafe in Shallotte is the place to go for a comforting breakfast and coffee or hot chocolate.
Purple Onion Café – Shallotte
Purple Onion Café is a local favorite in downtown Shallotte. The restaurant’s expansive menu of homemade baked goods, breakfast items, and lunch options means there’s something for everyone. On cooler winter days, Purple Onion Café is where you head for a warm cup of hot cocoa, food to soothe the soul, relaxed conversation with friends, and a side of Southern hospitality.
Bald Head Coffee & Tea House – Mainland
Local coffee brand Bald Head Coffee operates its Bald Head Coffee & Tea House on the Brunswick Islands mainland in Boiling Spring Lakes. The café is a hidden gem and boasts a long menu of coffees, teas, and specialty drinks. Coffee and dessert lovers will adore the Hot Dubai Chocolate Latte and there’s even hot chocolate and chai on the menu for a coffee alternative.
Crossroads Gathering Place on Oak Island has comfortable seating from which to enjoy the incredible marsh view.
Crossroads Gathering Place – Oak Island
There are few better ways to escape a winter chill than with a day of indoor shopping and coffee. At the Kitchen at Crossroads Gathering Place on Oak Island, the two come together. Grab a coffee at the bar and meander around the displays showcasing local art, jewelry, clothing, foodstuffs, and gifts. There’s also plenty of comfortable seating located throughout the store and large rear windows offering a spectacular view of the marsh without the need to step outside.
Where to Enjoy Your Cocoa
Believe it or not, but the beach might be the best place to enjoy your cocoa and coffee this winter in the Brunswick Islands! You’ll be able to walk for miles, cup in hand, feeling like you have the entire beach to yourself.
On Oak Island, the winter vibe gets even better! Beginning on November 16, and until April 30, you can submit a permit for a beach bonfire. With a valid bonfire permit and wind speeds under 15 miles per hour, you can have a cozy campfire evening on the beach with friends and family.
Plan Your Winter Visit
As you’ll soon find out, North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands delivers on cozy spots. So, grab a warm cup of hot chocolate, or coffee, and meet us this winter in the Brunswick Islands. To start planning your trip, visit our website and request a free North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands Vacation Guide.