It’s no secret that mornings are improved with a cup of joe in hand. The Brunswick Islands are overflowing with local coffee shops to help kick-start your day and keep you caffeinated during your island getaway! From enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee in a cozy cafe to taking your coffee to-go and sipping it on the balcony of your beachfront vacation home while watching the beautiful sunrise over the ocean, the coffee options are endless in NC's Brunswick Islands!
If you enjoy the traditional cozy coffee spot, look no further than the Coffee Cottage located in the heart of Calabash. Here you will find an array of coffee, espresso, and tea options to enjoy while you lounge on a comfortable chair in the lobby. Whether you are reading a good book or planning out your day, the Coffee Cottage is a unique place to relax and take in the aroma. Don't forget to try one of their pastries, especially the homemade cheddar and chive scones! Also, don't miss Eric's Place Coffee Bar conveniently located on Highway 17 in Calabash which has drive-thru service for a cup of joe on the go!
Of course, no morning is complete without your coffee, and Coastal Grounds answers the call! Located in Sunset Beach, is a laid-back, family-owned coffee shop where you can enjoy friendly service and a wide variety of coffee specialties. This coffee shop is conveniently attached to a beach rental shop, making it the perfect one-stop shop for your vacation and caffeine needs. Be sure to grab a quick cup of joe before heading to the beach to catch the infamous sunrises and sunsets that the island has to offer.
Surf’s up! Get caffeinated and gear up in this combined coffee house and surf shop at OIB Surf & Java in Ocean Isle Beach. Wake yourself up with a vanilla and toasted marshmallow “Cloud Nine” latte before hitting the waves with one of their custom, handmade surfboards. Located near the roundabout on the island in Ocean Isle Beach is Drift Coffee & Kitchen, which offers a variety of holistic breakfast and lunch options ranging from fresh acai bowls to savory wraps. Satisfy your thirst with a delicious Golden latte that is served hot and features ginger and turmeric powder and steamed almond milk. 59 Causeway Grill is also located on the island and serves up fresh coffee to go with mouth-watering breakfast sandwiches and bagels that you can enjoy with a waterfront view.
For a truly local experience, look no further than Ocean Boulevard Coffee in Holden Beach. Ocean Boulevard features artwork and photography from local artists, so this neat spot is a great place to sip your coffee in an atmosphere that inspires creativity! Try the delicious Bella’s BonBon, one of their specialty drinks named after the shop owner’s brindle boxer. The drink includes the perfect blend of caramel and vanilla and can be served hot, blended, or iced. Take home a piece of this local spot by purchasing their delicious coffee beans or some of their featured artwork. Also in Holden Beach is the unique Cafe Ahora, which serves up exotic blends of coffee sourced from around the world.
Looking for delicious refreshments that put some pep in your step? Hop on over to Jumpin' Java Espresso Company! Head to Shallotte or Oak Island for a comfortable atmosphere and a variety of mochas, lattes, espresso, and pastries. Choose from traditional coffee options or branch out with special offerings like the Absolute Magic which features macadamia, white chocolate, and caramel. We suggest ordering the Absolute Magic blended like a frozen frappe, but the drink can also be served hot. Insider Tip: Both locations have a drive-thru, so you can enjoy your coffee to-go without getting out of your car! Shallotte is also home to Starbucks for those who like to stick with the classics.
Along with Jumpin' Java Espresso Company, Oak Island is also home to the locally owned and operated Island Jo Coffee & Cafe. Spoil your taste buds with good eats, friendly service, and delicious signature drinks. Grab a veggie quiche that features mushrooms, onions, red and green peppers, and broccoli, and wash it all down with a refreshing salted caramel iced coffee. These can’t miss treats are a must for early risers! If you find yourself close to the Oak Island Pier, be sure to visit Ruby's Coffeehouse and Eatery for a delicious coffee and snack while taking a break from all the beach festivities. You also don't want to miss OKI Coffee House, which serves up gourmet coffee and tea options that pair well with a sunny beach day.
Those searching for a refreshing brew in a relaxing environment will find just that at Port City Java. With locations in Southport and Leland, Port City Java offers a full breakfast and lunch menu along with delicious signature drinks. You won’t want to miss out on their black and tan mocha made from espresso, caramel syrup, Ghirardelli chocolate sauce, white mocha powder, and topped with whipped cream and a triple drizzle. Southport is also home to the popular Southport Coffee Co. and Kitchen located downtown which serves up delectable coffee options along with fresh breakfast and lunch sandwiches. There is also a Southport Coffee Co. drive-thru-only location for a convenient coffee option while on the move.
Before heading too far out of town, try a taste of fresh and locally roasted coffee with a visit to Bald Head Coffee & Tea House in Boiling Spring Lakes. This Southport-based coffee roaster prides itself on a sip that is “as smooth as a bald head,” but has so much more to offer including fresh-baked muffins, sandwiches, and frozen specialty drinks. If you think you’ve found your new favorite coffee shop, it’ll be hard to pick a favorite for home with over 30 types of coffee beans and loose-leaf teas also available for purchase.
Along with Port City Java, Leland is also home to some familiar favorites. There is a Starbucks just off of Highway 17 as well as in the Harris Teeter off of Olde Regent Way to help with those grande and venti coffee cravings. Leland is also home to the Brunswick Islands' only Dunkin' for those seeking out the timeless coffee and donut combination.
Find all of these coffee spots on our interactive map below. Visit here to find more fun activities and delicious dining options in NC's Brunswick Islands.
Updated September 2023