When is the best time to visit Brunswick Islands, NC?

Brunswick Islands is most affordable and least crowded in the shoulder seasons, late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October). Summer is peak for beach activity but rates are 30-60% higher. Off-season (November-March) offers the quietest stays and sometimes the most character.

How are the waterfront rentals in Brunswick Islands chosen?

Every rental listed in Brunswick Islands is on the water by its own listing: beachfront, oceanfront, gulf front, bayfront or soundfront. A house whose description puts it a walk or a drive from the beach is left off. Listings come from Vrbo, Booking.com and Whimstay. Rates are set by the host and visible at the booking link.

Are the properties on SleepByTheBeach available on Vrbo or Booking.com?

Yes, each property links directly to its listing on Vrbo, Booking.com or Whimstay. We list from public listings; we don't own or manage these properties. We may earn a small commission when you book through our affiliate links at no cost to you.

What makes Brunswick Islands different from other beach towns?

South-facing beaches between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach: Ocean Isle, Sunset, Holden, Oak Island and Bald Head.. It has the character of a small coastal town without the density of major resort destinations. Our curation focuses on quiet, authentic stays within walking distance of the water.

Brunswick Islands

South-facing beaches between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach: Ocean Isle, Sunset, Holden, Oak Island and Bald Head.

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6422 waterfront rentals·30 shores·Every listing on the water·Updated 2026-11-14

North Carolina's Brunswick Islands are the barrier islands along the state's southern corner: Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island with Caswell Beach, and car-free Bald Head Island by ferry from Southport. The beaches face south, so the sun rises and sets over the water, and the towns are almost entirely houses rather than hotels. Pricing runs higher than Myrtle Beach a half hour away and the inventory is thinner, which is the point.

StateNC

Peak seasonJune to August

Best forWaterfront stays

Featured5 rentals

The curated list · 5 rentals

Where we would stay in Brunswick Islands.

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Sleeps

Shore

Nightly rates are the ones each partner listed when we last read them. The partner gives the final price for your dates. A rental with no rate shown is left out of the price filters.

No. 01

'Salt & Light' Oceanfront Condo w/ Pool & Elevator

Entire condo

4 bedroom sleeps 11 shared pool about $326 a night

Head to the beautiful town of Ocean Isle Beach to this 4-bedroom, 2 bathroom vacation rental home located directly on the beach. With a private double-wide balcony, oceanfront pool and deck, direct beach access, and a private elevator, this 2-story condo is perfect for your family vacation! There is something for everyone with restaurants, shopping, mini-golf, parks, arcades, bike, beach item and boat rentals, free concerts, and movie nights all within walking distance! The space Direct Beach Access. Private Elevator. Panoramic Ocean Views. Recently Updated. Community Pool Bedroom 1: Queen Bed. Bedroom 2: Queen Bed. Bedroom 3: Queen Bed, Twin Bed.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 02

Private Balcony and Community Pool - Stunning Oceanfront Escape

Condo

3 bedroom sleeps 6 shared pool about $283 a night

Key Amenities: Oceanfront Views: Private covered balcony with stunning ocean views. Direct beach access via dedicated walkway. Community Pool & Amenities: Access to a swimming pool, sun deck, beach walkway, and picnic area with park grills. Outdoor Space: Large grassy area for games and activities. Sleeps: 6 Guests Master Bedroom: Queen bed, ensuite bathroom, private balcony access. Bedroom 2: Full bed. Bedroom 3: Two twin beds (kid-friendly). Kid-Friendly Extras: Safety bed rails, toys, puzzles, books, and family-friendly DVDs. Experience the ultimate beach getaway at the 19th Hole Oceanfront Villa, where relaxation meets adventure.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 03

Oak Island Beachfront Condo w/ Community Pool

Entire condo

3 bedroom sleeps 6 shared pool about $364 a night

Experience the best of Oak Island from this beachy vacation rental! Boasting ocean views from the balcony, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo is the ideal abode for a quick trip to the east coast, regardless of if you're traveling for business or pleasure. Located near several public beaches and with access to the community pool, this condo has ample entertainment opportunities for the entire group. Grab some seafood from a local eatery or enjoy a home-cooked meal from this comfortable home! The space Free WiFi. Beach Access. Central A/C. Beach Gear Provided This beachfront condo is the perfect getaway for families or small groups in Oak Island to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 04

Spacious Condo with Private Balcony and Pool Access - Charming Retreat

Condo

2 bedroom sleeps 4 private pool about $80 a night

This wonderful villa be only be available for stays 25 days or longer at an excellent nightly rate. Stays of 91 days or longer do not pay occupancy taxes. This lovely, newly remodeled, 2 bedroom condo is located in the beautiful gated community of St.James in Southeastern NC! Southern Winds is a comfortable, spacious, 2nd floor condo with all the comforts of home! From the fully stocked kitchen to the luxurious and comfortable bedrooms! Unwind & relax at the pool, take a stroll along the miles of walking trails, enjoy a meal at the St James Marina, venture to Historic Southport or one of the local, white sand beaches! Southern Winds is waiting for you.

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See Brunswick Islands stays on Booking.com.

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No. 05

Ocean View and Community Pool - Charming Oceanfront Retreat

Condo

2 bedroom sleeps 5 shared pool about $233 a night

Key Amenities: Oceanfront Community with 3rd Floor Ocean Views Private Open-Air Balcony with bar-height seating (unobstructed view) Community Pool & Sun Deck Dedicated Walkway to the Beach Fully Equipped Kitchen Outdoor Shower Locked Ground-Level Storage with 6 Beach Chairs & Toys Covered Parking Covered Community Picnic Area with Park Grills Walkable to OKI Golf Club, Dufferâs Restaurant, OKI Pier & More Short Drive to Southport, Barbee Bridge, Shops, Grocery & Seasonal Events Oceanfront Villas; Private Open Air Balcony with 3rd Floor Ocean Views; Villa's Community Pool with Sun Deck; Dedicated Walkway to the Beach; Sleeps 5 â Bedroom 1: Ocean View, Private Entrance to the Balcony...

Check rates on Whimstay →

Search every stay in Brunswick Islands on Booking.com

Hotels, beach houses, apartments, and resorts. Free cancellation on most rooms. Then add a flight in or a rental car for dune drives.

Search stays → Flights to Brunswick Islands Car rental

Or browse the same coast on Vrbo: Browse Vrbo →

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Curated luxury alternative

Prefer a boutique hotel or villa?

If a hand-picked, design-led hotel sounds better than a vacation rental, Skylark Travel Group covers the same destinations with curated boutique stays, Mr & Mrs Smith, exclusive deals, real human concierge.