Cloudy skies can sometimes tag along on your vacation, disrupting even the best beach plans. While sunny days are perfect for a coastal escape, North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands provide plenty of captivating indoor activities that shine in any weather. These attractions aren’t just a backup plan for rainy days—they’re must-visit stops that are just as enjoyable when the sun is out. Rain or shine, your Brunswick Islands adventure promises endless fun with these indoor experiences.
Explore Science and History
While our 45 miles of tranquil beaches are no stranger to the national spotlight, our scenic and lively community offers visitors more than just sand and surf. Guests of all ages and interests can immerse in the rich history and unique culture of the Brunswick Islands with an incredible array of indoor museums and historic attractions that prove a rainy day at the beach still beats a sunny day at the office.
In Southport, history buffs can experience Fort Johnston-Southport Museum, which offers self-guided tours showcasing the history, heritage and culture of this charming fishing village. For an even broader look into the history of the Brunswick Islands, the nearby North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport shares the story of the Cape Fear region, complete with pirates, blockade running, riverfront archaeology and more. On the mainland, the Visitors Center at Brunswick Town Fort Anderson in Winnabow includes a video history of the site as well as archaeological artifacts.
Science seekers can enjoy a rainy day spent under the stars at the Ingram Planetarium on Sunset Beach or a day spent exploring one of the largest dry aquariums on the East Coast at the Museum of Coastal Carolina on Ocean Isle Beach. If a summer shower pops up during turtle season, be sure to check with the local Sea Turtle Protection Organization to ask about indoor Turtle Talks, which happen throughout the warm season and offer visitors a glimpse of this unique aspect of the local wildlife.
Take a Culinary Adventure
Your rain plan shouldn’t mean taking a raincheck on a good time. With countless culinary experiences offering the best in seafood and family dining, there are endless opportunities to share a fun and flavorful meal—even if that means foregoing a patio table on a rainy evening. Many of the waterfront restaurants in the Brunswick Islands offer window seating, so you can still take in the stunning views no matter the weather.
The booming restaurant scene of North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands also offers local hotspots serving up good times by the glass. Solar Brewing is a newer addition to the Brunswick Islands craft beer scene, offering unique brews and fun events in their taproom on Oak Island. Over in Ocean Isle Beach, Makai Brewing Company not only crafts tasty Brunswick Islands brews, but also brings the spirit of Hawaii to even the most overcast of days. Local flavors can also be found at nearby Silver Coast Winery where guests can enjoy winery tours, tastings, an art gallery, gift shop and more. In addition to local breweries and the winery, a list of area taprooms and wine bars can be found here.
Enjoy “Me Time” with Retail or Spa Therapy
When life gives you rain, seek a little retail therapy along one of the area’s many specialty shops, art galleries, local craft boutiques and antique treasures await. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect souvenir or a locally made craft, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for among a beautiful coastal backdrop, stunning southern homes and charming streets. No matter your taste or budget, there is something for everyone to shop and experience. For a little "me time," try a trip to one of the nearby day spas for some pampering.
See the Brunswick Islands on the Big Screen
If the clouds roll in during your vacation in the Brunswick Islands, cozy up with one of the many movies and television shows filmed here. Timeless films like Crimes of the Heart and I Know What You Did Last Summer feature some recognizable locales in their early days, while more recent favorites like Safe Haven offer an in-depth view of Southport on the big screen. New films from the area featuring big names like Mel Gibson and Joseph Gordon-Levitt are now available to rent; check out Monster Summer and Greedy People, which both debuted in 2024. Once the sun reemerges, be sure to stop by the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum to pick up a copy of the walking tour of the local film industry!
For even more rainy-day itinerary ideas, ask a local! Members of our friendly coastal community are sure to have the inside scoop on how to make the most of what Mother Nature has in store. Rain or shine, a vacation to North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands is always a good time. For more information on things to do at North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, please visit www.ncbrunswick.com.