Spring has arrived in North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands which means it’s a wonderful time of year to enjoy good weather and a picnic on the beach. Fewer crowds this time of year also mean your group will have space to spread out along our 45 miles of coastline.

Here are some packing and planning tips if you’re hoping to enjoy a beach picnic while visiting the Brunswick Islands. Remember for even more trip suggestions, you can sign up for our monthly newsletter.

a view of the beach strand form over the dunes on Sunset Beach at sunrise in September

Picking a Location

Find a picnic spot along one of our six island beaches:

When heading to the beach please stick to designated public access walkways. Please do not walk on the sand dunes or set up picnics in the sand dunes, they are critical shoreline barriers.

an aerial view of the Shallotte Riverwalk in 2021

If you’d rather get out of the sand, explore one of the nature preserves or parks in the Brunswick Islands. Other great spots include:

Timing & Weather

If you’re planning to enjoy a picnic on the beach, be mindful of the tide. Generally, going out around low tide ensures the beach will be at its widest and you won’t have to move your picnic spread halfway through the meal.

Visit our Tide Chart page ahead of your visit to find the best time to spread your picnic blanket.

Of course, don’t forget to check the weather forecast. We experience some wonderful weather and warm temperatures in spring, but you’ll want to check on the wind forecast.

a family of 4 sitting on the beach under an umbrella

What to Bring

Here’s a list of some recommended items to bring with you:

  • A picnic blanket or towel
  • A picnic basket or cooler
  • Your favorite food (prepared by you or one of our area restaurants)
  • Napkins, cutlery, and paper plates
  • An umbrella or wind powered sunshade (some beach towns restrict the use of canopies)
  • Sunscreen
  • A bag for trash

What Not to Bring

Please note that glass containers are prohibited on all Brunswick Islands beaches.  Charcoal grills are not permitted on the beach strand.

a family of 4 walking out to the beach on a wooden walkway pulling a beach wagon

Logistics & Setup

When it comes time to set up your beach picnic here are few things to know:

Parking

Many of our beach accesses have nearby parking, meaning you shouldn’t expect a long walk from your vehicle to your picnic spot.

Beach Wagons

If you’d prefer not to carry your items, beach wagons are allowed on our Brunswick Islands beaches. For a list of beach accesses with ramps and mobi-mats, please visit our Beach Accessibility page.

Restrooms at the Beach

Please note some of our island have more restroom facilities available on/near the beach than others:

  • Sunset Beach: Mobile restrooms at the gazebo lot
  • Ocean Isle Beach: No public restrooms at beach accesses
  • Holden Beach: Mobile restrooms at the Holden Beach Pier lot, and dedicated facilities at the East end and Jordan Blvd. under the bridge
  • Oak Island: Restrooms at the Point (end of W Beach Drive), Kings Lynn Dr., Cabana, 14th Place East, Oak Island Pier, Barbee Blvd., and Middleton Park beach accesses
  • Caswell Beach: Public restrooms at the beach access along Caswell Beach Rd.
  • Bald Head Island: No public restrooms at beach accesses

a wooden walkway with steps and a mobi-mat leading onto Holden Beach

Cleaning Up

The beach is a crucial ecosystem for the many wildlife species who call it home. When you are finished with your picnic and ready to depart, please remain a respectful visitor and leave no trace.

  • Always remember to take home what you bring with you, including all equipment.
  • Dispose of all your waste in dedicated bins along the beach or beach accesses
  • Bring your own bag for trash in case one is not available on site.
  • Do not feed wildlife or leave food behind.
  • Fill in any holes before leaving.

Thank you for helping to keep our beaches clean and our wildlife wild.

Start Planning Your Beach Picnic

Now is the time to make your plans!

Whether you are looking for a romantic date or a fun family activity there is no better time to plan your perfect picnic in North Carolina's Brunswick Islands. For additional information on the Brunswick Islands and to plan your trip, please visit www.ncbrunswick.com.

FAQs

1. Can I picnic on the beach at night

While visitors are allowed to walk on the beach at night, camping and overnight parking are prohibited. You may be asked to move your picnic indoors.

2. Can I bring my dog with me?

Leash laws vary by island and the time of your pet’s visit. Please see our Pets on the Beach page for more information.

3. What kind of food should I bring for my picnic?

The Brunswick Islands have no shortage of delicacies to pick up and pack for your picnic, visit our Takeout and Delivery page for suggestions.