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

Private Walkway and Spacious Deck - Spectacular Oceanfront Haven

House

6 bedroom sleeps 16 about $579 a night

Key Amenities: Oceanfront location with private walkway to the beach Spacious oceanfront deck with seating and alfresco dining Sleeps 20 in 6 bedrooms (2 oceanview primary suites with king beds, 4 rooms with 2 queen beds each) 3 Jack & Jill shared baths (tub/shower) Smart TVs in every bedroom (cable via Spectrum app) Fully equipped chefâs kitchen with small appliances (e.g., coffee maker, blender, griddle, slow cooker) Large living area with ample seating, games, puzzles, and a large screen smart TV Full-sized washer/dryer Foot wash spigot and outdoor shower Walking distance to Ocean Crest Pier and Island Way Restaurant Convenient to shopping, dining, and local attractions like OKI...

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 02

Private Crofter and Expansive Porch - Spectacular Coastal Haven

House

4 bedroom sleeps 12 about $661 a night

best features! ocean front private guest crofter expansive back screened porch 2 golf carts unbelievable location! our 4 bedroom, ocean front home is the perfect family vacation spot! there are 3 bedrooms in the main house and a guest crofter. our home has a traditional floorplan with a spacious, open design. the living, dining and kitchen are on the first floor. the other 3 bedrooms are located upstairs including a large master suite over looking the ocean. enjoy the expansive back porch while watching the spectacular sunsets. we have 2 golf carts for your enjoyment, beach gear and wifi.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 03

Stunning Double Beachfront Escape - Breathtaking Panoramic Views

House

5 bedroom sleeps 12 private pool about $928 a night

View Times Two is a one-of-a-kind coastal retreat offering unmatched panoramic views of both sunrise and sunset over the ocean. This classic beach cottage combines simplicity and scenery, featuring a nearly 900 sq. ft. due west facing deck, private beach access, and photography platforms that perfectly frame the islandâs natural beauty. Below, a sheltered hammock beach, shower room, and sunny patio provide even more ways to unwind. Plus, itâs just a short walk to the BHI Club, or use any of the three golf carts to cruise around BHI! If youâre looking for a traditional, no-frills beach cottage that is right on the ocean, View Times Two is your place.

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No. 04

The Flip Side

House

5 bedroom sleeps 12 about $494 a night

Your Classic Beachfront Escape on Oak Island â Steps From the Sand Welcome to your perfect coastal getaway! This charming beachfront home sits directly on the shores of Oak Island, offering true walk-out access to the sand and surf. Designed in the classic beach style, it carries that timeless âfamily vacationâ feel while adding the modern conveniences guests loveâincluding a Tesla charging station right on-site. Ideal for Families & Groups The home features two thoughtfully arranged levels, each with its own living space. This setup makes it easy for families, extended families, or groups to spread out comfortably while still enjoying the same home.

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See Brunswick Islands stays on Booking.com.

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No. 05

A Sight to Sea

House

6 bedroom sleeps 13 private pool about $1066 a night

Key Amenities Oceanfront location with 180Â° ocean views Swim spa hybrid pool with hot tub seating 2 levels of covered porches Elevator Fully equipped kitchen with gas stove, double ovens, drip coffee maker, beverage cooler Dining for 8 indoors, island seating for 4, alfresco dining for 6 Gas fireplace Games and puzzles Outdoor shower Beach toys, rolling cooler, chairs, and beach cart Parking for 5 vehicles Pet free Oceanfront; Swim Spa Hybrid Pool with Hot Tub Style Seating on Sun Deck; 2 Levels of Covered Porches with 180Â° Ocean Views; Elevator; Pet Free (in the interests of guests who may be allergic); Sleeps 13 in 6 Bedrooms; First Level: #1 â King / En Suite; #2 â Queen / En...

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.