One of the best ways to experience North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands is by boat, allowing you to explore its picturesque waterways and landscapes up close. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, boating around the Brunswick Islands provides an unforgettable vacation experience.
Getting Around: Intracoastal Waterway
Navigating the Brunswick Islands by boat is made easy with the Intracoastal Waterway. This well-marked and maintained route connects various islands and coastal towns, providing boaters with a smooth and scenic journey. Along the way, you can enjoy views of lush marshes, serene beaches, and quaint waterfront communities, making every trip an adventure in itself. Inlets between the islands provide direct access to the ocean from the Intracoastal Waterway and area rivers.
Pontoon and Kayak Rentals
For those who don't have their own boat, there are plenty of options for pontoon and kayak rentals in the Brunswick Islands. Local rental services offer a range of boats to suit your needs, from spacious pontoons perfect for a family outing to nimble kayaks ideal for exploring narrow creeks and marshes. Renting a boat gives you the freedom to chart your own course and discover the hidden gems of the area at your own pace.
Guided Boating Adventures
Guided Kayak Tours: Joining a guided kayak tour is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the Brunswick Islands. Experienced local guides and outfitters will lead you through peaceful creeks and marshes, pointing out interesting wildlife and sharing insights about the area's ecosystem.
Guided Boat Tours: For a more relaxed experience, consider a guided boat tour. These tours offer a comfortable way to see the sights and learn about the region's history and marine life from knowledgeable guides. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the wake and enjoy the scenic views of the coastline.
Fishing Charters: Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast a line in-shore or off-shore with the various fishing charters available in the Brunswick Islands. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, these charters cater to all skill levels and offer the chance to catch a variety of fish, from flounder and red drum to larger game fish.
Restaurants: Dock and Dine
Across the Brunswick Islands, charming waterfront restaurants are a quintessential experience for beach vacationers. Accessing restaurants by boat in the Brunswick Islands adds a delightful twist to your dining experience. The restaurants along Southport’s Yacht Basin or the Calabash River are easy to dock at and provide fantastic sunset views to accompany a fresh seafood meal. Other boat-in spots around the Brunswick Islands include Provision Company and Dock House in Holden Beach, Inlet View Bar and Grill in Shallotte, Ocean Isle Fish Company, 59 Causeway Grill and Sharky’s in Ocean Isle Beach.
Boat-Friendly Accommodations
Staying in a rental home with an attached dock in the Brunswick Islands offers unparalleled convenience and a unique way to experience coastal living. Many of the area’s vacation rentals provide direct water access, allowing you to easily explore the surrounding waterways and return home whenever you please. These well-appointed homes come with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay, making them the perfect base for your boating adventures.
Overnight Docking Around the Brunswick Islands
For those looking to dock overnight, Morningstar Marina in Southport, Holden Beach Marina, Bald Head Island Marina and Deep Point Marina are top choices for private vessels. These marinas offer a range of amenities and services for transient boaters, including fuel, showers, and laundry facilities. The proximity of the marinas to all the fun of the Brunswick Islands means you can easily explore the area’s beaches, charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites, making for a convenient stop on a boating journey. For more information on marinas and boating access areas, visit here.
Exploring North Carolina's Brunswick Islands by boat offers a unique and memorable vacation experience. From navigating the Intracoastal Waterway to enjoying guided tours, dockside dining and convenient accommodations, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and coastal charm of this region.
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