This holiday season, leave the mall crowds and stress behind for the gift of experiences and memories that will last a lifetime in North Carolina's Brunswick Islands. From magnificent lighthouses to glorious sunsets and everything in between, a trip to NC’s Brunswick Islands is the perfect gift for beach lovers and travelers on your list. Unlike the joy from material purchases that diminish over time, memories made in the Brunswick Islands will last a lifetime. Discover a multitude of extra-special gifts in the Brunswick Islands awaiting to spark joy for you and everyone on your gift list.

Give the Gift of Experience

Have a thrill-seeker on your list? Gift your beloved adrenaline junkie an exciting experience at The Swamp Park. Soar through the treetops on an exhilarating 10-line, three bridge zipline or test your coordination and agility as you make your way through the 49-element adventure park. If heights aren’t your thing, explore the swamp from below on an ecological swamp boat tour through the Shallotte River. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the natural swamp environment, home to many reptiles and birds, or, if you’re interested in getting muddy, take a guided ATV tour! 

Exciting experiences are plentiful in NC’s Brunswick Islands! There’s no shortage of fun and memorable activities, such as golfing, fishing, kayaking, or watching newly hatched sea turtles make their way to the ocean. And, many events and festivals take place throughout the year, so visitors can always rely on year-round entertainment for the whole family.

Child on Zipline at The Swamp Park

Give the Gift of Secrets Shared

Featured in the Nicholas Sparks novel, “Every Breath,” the Kindred Spirit Mailbox invites guests to take a scenic beach walk to this famed, trip-worthy site in Sunset Beach. Those who can find the elusive mailbox will find notebooks filled with the personal reflections and thoughts of past visitors from near and far. Sit upon the nearby bench on this serene beach and jot down a few thoughts, dreams and wishes of your own to be read by future travelers.

Give the Gift of Scenic Views

Climb to new heights with the best gift this holiday: the gift of unparalleled scenic beauty. North Carolina's Brunswick Islands is home to both the oldest and newest lighthouses in the state. Begin your tour in Caswell Beach at the most recent lighthouse built in North Carolina, the Oak Island Lighthouse. The top tier outside balcony offers an unforgettable view of Holden Beach and Oak Island on one side, while the other side of the balcony looks across the way to Bald Head Island. Climb the 131 ship ladder steps and witness the epic view for yourself. To complete your lighthouse tour, hop aboard the Bald Head Island ferry and make your way to the oldest lighthouse in the state, Old Baldy. Built in 1817, the Old Baldy Lighthouse has long stood as a beacon to the area, marking the mouth of the Cape Fear River.

View from the top of Oak Island Lighthouse.

Give the Gift of Waterfront Dining

For all the foodies on your list, NC’s Brunswick Islands boasts delicious and unmatched waterfront dining options loved by locals and area visitors every day of the year. Our waterfront restaurants are serving up local fare paired with stunning views set along the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Fear River, Intracoastal Waterway and more, making for memorable meals perfect for any foodie. Top it off with a visit to Calabash, "The Seafood Capital of the World", and you’re in for an extra-special treat. After all, no beach vacation is complete without enjoying fresh seafood with a view!

Scallops Jinks Creek Waterfront

Give the Gift of a Winter Getaway

After a day of laughter, exploration and family fun, spend the night with friends and loved ones in one of NC’s Brunswick Islands many vacation rental homes. All group sizes, budgets, and travel styles can be accommodated by the Brunswick Islands’ wide variety of vacation rental homes. Along with easy access to the beach, vacation rentals offer the comfort of home with full kitchens and cozy gathering spaces that allow the entire family to spend time together relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. Choose from cozy condos and beach cottages to grand oceanfront homes able to accommodate large family reunions and travel groups.

silhouette of a house with a balcony and pool with a sunrise in the background

Give the Gift of Local Treasures

While enjoying a getaway in NC’s Brunswick Islands, shop for one-of-a-kind treasures from the area’s local artisans. Throughout the area's islands and coastal towns, a large selection of specialty shops, art galleries, local craft boutiques and antique treasures await. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect souvenir or a spectacular gift for loved ones back at home, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for among beautiful coastal backdrops, stunning southern homes and charming streets. No matter your taste or budget, there is something for everyone to shop for, eat, and experience.

Make the holidays unforgettable this year by giving the gift of treasured memories in NC’s Brunswick Islands. From one-of-a-kind experiences to unique goods only found in the area’s local shops, a getaway to NC’s Brunswick Islands is the perfect gift for loved ones this holiday. For more information on gifts or to plan your trip, visit www.ncbrunswick.com.