Sunset Beach’s Market in the Park is a family friendly outdoor food and crafts market that makes for the perfect summer morning activity to kick off your day, interact with talented artisans, and immerse yourself in the local community while on vacation in NC’s Brunswick Islands.
The following guide is a simple summer morning plan to help you make the most of your time at the Sunset Beach Market in the Park and the beach day that follows. If you like our suggestions below, make sure to sign up for our monthly newsletter for even more summer trip tips.
Pictured: Art from We Shell Overcome based in Calabash
Best Time to Arrive for Sunset Beach Market in the Park
The Sunset Beach Market in the Park begins every Thursday at 9 a.m. in Sunset Beach Town Park. Arrive a few minutes after nine for easy parking and to allow vendors to complete setup. By 11 a.m. the Market in the Park is typically at its busiest.
As the market wraps up at 1 p.m., expect vendors to begin packing up and foot traffic to slow. If you aren’t shopping for perishables, this is a great time to grab one or two last minute gifts for family and friends.
Visitors to the morning market come and go regularly, meaning parking is usually always available.
What to Shop First
Shop for non-refrigerated perishables such as fruits, vegetables, artisan baked goods, and other foods first to ensure you first pick of your fresh favorites. Many food items tend to regularly sell out.
Then peruse the stands of homemade goods, art, jewelry, children’s toys, and more that make for excellent gifts and souvenirs of your visit.
Save refrigerated perishables such as salsa, smoothies, and other food for last to minimize the time spent in the heat of a summer morning.
Turn it Into a Sunset Beach Day
After spending your morning at Sunset Beach Market in the Park, make time for a lunch stop and an afternoon at the beach. You’ll find restaurants including Oak & Palm Waterfront Dining, Fibber McGee’s, and Aromas at the Beach serving everything from Southern staples to Irish pub fare and Peruvian flavors not far from Sunset Beach Town Park.
For more restaurant options visit our Restaurants page.
After lunch your day turns into a beach day on the island of Sunset Beach. Pick your spot in the sand or go for a stroll to the Kindred Spirit Mailbox on Bird Island. You can also find plenty of other nearby things to do as well.
For more beach day tips on Sunset Beach, check out our “Best Beach Days” blog for help with logistics, what to bring, and when to arrive.
Plan Your Visit
Take part in this local outdoor market near you when you visit Sunset Beach this summer. Explore our Places to Stay pages for accommodation that keeps you close to summer events like the Sunset Beach Market in the Park, outdoor concerts, and much more.
For help planning your trip, visit our website and request a free North Carolina’s Brunswick Island Vacation Guide to get started.
FAQs
1. When is Sunset Beach’s Market in the Park held?
Sunset Beach Market in the Park is held on Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Sunset Beach Town Park. The market begins weekly at the end of April and runs through the end of September. For individual market dates, please visit our Events page.
2. What time should I arrive for Sunset Beach Market in the Park?
Arrive at the market’s start at 9:00 a.m. for first pick of fresh produce, baked goods, and other perishables. If you can’t make it in the morning, the market runs until 1 p.m.
3. Is the market family friendly?
Yes, the Sunset Beach Market in the Park is very family friendly. There are lots of goods, crafts, and toys for children on sale. You can even bring pets; just make sure they’re leashed.
4. Where should I park near the market?
Parking for the Sunset Beach Market in the Park is available in Sunset Beach Town Park parking lots and median parking lot on Sunset Boulevard.
5. What can I do nearby after shopping?
Continue shopping at nearby stores and boutiques, go for lunch, or visit the island of Sunset Beach and turn your shopping adventure into an outdoor beach day. You can also explore other nearby activities at our Things to Do page.
6. What other outdoor markets are there in NC’s Brunswick Islands?
Many other islands and towns host outdoor markets during the summer months. Shallotte, Southport, Calabash, Oak Island, and Ocean Isle Beach all host outdoor markets on select dates. Visit our Events page for more information.