While meandering through North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, one can’t help but notice that the area’s temperate weather and laid-back, seaside setting create the perfect conditions for biking anytime of the year! Visitors to the Brunswick Islands can feel the sun on their faces and the wind in their hair as they get some exercise and take in the diverse views that the islands have to offer. Whether you are appreciating the moss-draped live oaks on the streets of Southport, taking a serene beach bike ride, or scoping out a local creamery to stop in for an afternoon snack, biking is one of the best ways to cruise through the area.
Visitors can bring their own bikes or rent them from one of many rental companies in the Brunswick Islands. Those bringing the whole family can confidently enter the local shops knowing that most companies provide both child and adult bikes, as well as child trainers to attach to the back of the ride.
For avid bikers visiting the area, try out one of the many bike trails located throughout NC's Brunswick Islands. Many of the parks and nature preserves in the Brunswick Islands feature walking/ biking trails that range from beginner to advance. The Brunswick Nature Park is home to three mountain bike trails: the beginners “Canebreak," intermediate “Gator Loop” and advanced “Copperhead.” Be sure to always use caution when riding as some of the bike trails in the Brunswick Islands lead out onto active roadways.
If you aren’t quite ready to head out on your own, or want some additional information on the beauty surrounding you, check out a guided bike tour from The Adventure Kayak Company in Southport. Guests can learn about the town’s history while taking in the unique views that Southport has to offer. These tours are only $35.00 and include a one and a half hour tour, a bike, and a helmet for use during the tour’s duration.
For returning visitors, or just those that want to travel at their own pace, NC's Brunswick Islands consists of more than 45 miles of spacious, stunning beaches that provide an idyllic backdrop for your biking adventure. And for those that want to stick to the pavement, the Brunswick Islands have many roads that follow the curve of the coast: Beach Drive and Ocean Drive on Oak Island, Caswell Beach Road on Caswell Beach, Ocean Boulevard on Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Boulevard and First Street on Ocean Isle Beach, Main Street on Sunset Beach, and South Bald Head Wynd and Cape Creek Road on Bald Head Island.
Visitors to Holden Beach can also take in the island town along three different bike routes totaling almost 20 miles. Known as the “Olden” Holden Beach Bike Tour, cyclists can take their pick between loops that include historic points of interest, marshland views, and bicycle access to the beach.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that will make your beach-side ride extra special, head over to the Bird Island Reserve in Sunset Beach to explore the salt marsh and tidal creeks. This area is one of 10 sites that make up the North Carolina Coastal Reserve & Natural Estuarine Research Preserve. This unique coastal ecosystem is often used as an outdoor laboratory where scientists, students, and the public can learn about the processes, functions, and influences that shape and sustain the coastal area. Visitors can come and enjoy the wildlife and experience the history and habitats of the preserve as they look out for birds and animals that call the area home.
Bird Island is also home to the Kindred Spirit Mailbox, a hidden gem, where visitors venture to share their innermost thoughts and dreams with the universe by writing in the journals that rest inside. Biking to the Kindred Spirit Mailbox has become a popular mode of transportation for those who want to dedicate more time to writing and reflecting than to walking the mile trek to the mailbox from the closest public access point.
Whether you are in the mood for a leisurely pedal along the beach or a sightseeing adventure, North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands is the perfect destination to enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise on your next biking excursion!
For more information on biking in the Brunswick Islands and to plan your trip, please visit www.ncbrunswick.com.