Brunswick County coast
Things to do in Ocean Isle Beach
Things to do in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina: public beaches, parks, and landmarks. Unchecked businesses stay off the list.
Last updated October 15, 2026.
The strand
Swim, walk, pick up shells, get salt in your eyebrows. That's the job. The town says it does not staff lifeguards, so the ocean is on you. The inlets at both ends pull harder than the mid-island beach. They are for looking, not for a casual float.
Ocean Isle Beach Fishing Pier
The pier's own site puts this landmark at 1 W. First Street and traces it to 1957. Fish from it, or walk out and look back at the houses. Anglers fish under the pier's license. Hours and walk rates move with the season. Check oibpier.com before you go.
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
The back side of the island. Boat traffic, marsh, and a calmer paddle than the surf when the wind behaves. Which ramp is public, and what it costs, is posted by the town. Check that before you trailer a boat.
The neighboring islands
Sunset Beach, mailbox walk included, and Holden Beach are easy extra days by car. You will cross two bridges and you will not mind, unless it is a Saturday in July.