10 Things to Do in the Brunswick Islands Before Summer

As the air warms and the azaleas bloom across Southeastern North Carolina, there is a magical, fleeting window of time known to locals as the shoulder season. It’s that sweet spot after the winter chill has gone, but before the tidal wave of summer tourists arrives, filling the beaches and lengthening the restaurant wait times.

For residents planning a Spring break staycation, or grandparents welcoming family for a visit, this is the premier time to enjoy Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and the surrounding areas. You get the iconic coastal experiences—the salt air, the fresh seafood, the breathtaking sunsets—without the signature summer gridlock.

Here are 10 things you absolutely must do in the Brunswick Islands and local area before the summer crowds take over.

1. Paddle the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

Where: Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Oak Island, or Southport

Why now: In summer, the ICW is a busy highway of yachts, jet skis, and pontoon boats. Right now, it’s a serene paradise. Rent a kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) and explore the calm salt marshes on the sound side of the islands with one of these Holden Beach or Ocean Isle launch sites. It’s peaceful, great exercise, and the best way to spot herons, egrets, and occasionally, dolphins.

2. Take the "Memory Mailboxes" Walk

Where: Holden Beach (East End)

Why now: The Memory Mailbox Walk is a definitive Holden Beach staycation activity. A long walk at the east end of the island leads you to one of several mailboxes planted in the dunes, filled with notebooks where visitors share thoughts, prayers, and stories. The walk is gorgeous, but when the summer heat hits 90 degrees, it can be grueling. Go now to enjoy the journey in the mild spring breeze.

3. Conquer Shallotte River Swamp Park

Where: Near Ocean Isle Beach

Why now: For visiting grandkids with energy to burn, this is a must-stop. Shallotte River Swamp Park offers zip-line tours over a 300-year-old cypress swamp, an aerial adventure park, and swamp boat eco-tours. In summer, the popular zip-line slots can be booked out weeks in advance, and the swamp heat can be intense. Booking now ensures you get the tour you want in comfortable weather.

4. Experience the "Dry Aquarium" and Planetarium

Where: Ocean Isle Beach & Sunset Beach

Why now: Perfect for a rainy day or a break from the sun during a Spring break staycation, the Museum of Coastal Carolina (OIB) and Ingram Planetarium (Sunset Beach) are local gems. The museum features a massive "dry aquarium," a live touch tank, and diorama exhibits of local wildlife. It’s highly interactive for your kids or grandkids. Before the summer camps arrive, you’ll have better access to the touch tanks and a quieter experience in the Sky Theater.

5. Land a Table at Your Favorite Restaurant

Where: Holden Beach

Why now: In the height of summer, the wait for a table at popular restaurants can easily stretch to two hours. In the spring, you can often walk right in and enjoy a relaxed meal without the pressure of a hundred people waiting for your seat. Castaways, Mermaid Island Grill, and Provisions are a few top spots for Seafood in Holden Beach.

6. Climb the Oak Island Lighthouse

Where: Oak Island

Why now: The Oak Island Lighthouse is one of the most unique lighthouses on the coast, using ships' ladders instead of a spiral staircase to reach the top. Reservations are required to climb to the observation deck, and these are notoriously difficult to get during the summer months. Now is your best chance to secure a slot for the panoramic views of the ocean and the Cape Fear River. Grandkid tip: Note that climbers must be at least 9 years old.

7. Play a Round of (Uncrowded) Mini-Golf

Where: Myrtle Beach 

Why now: Just a short drive south lies Myrtle Beach, the undisputed Mini-Golf Capital of the World. With over 50 incredibly themed courses—from the erupting volcanoes of Mt. Atlanticus to the pirate ships of Captain Hook’s—it is a wonderland for all ages. In the summer, these courses become major bottlenecks. Visiting now allows you to play through at your own pace without waiting at every hole.

8. Explore Historic Downtown Southport

Where: Southport 

Why now: Southport is a tiny, charming maritime town that has served as the backdrop for numerous movies. Its waterfront, antique shops, and local restaurants are beloved, meaning it becomes incredibly gridlocked in summer. Spring is the perfect time to find street parking easily, stroll the waterfront park without crowds, and dine at popular spots like Fishy Fishy Cafe or Provision Co. (Southport location) with minimal waiting.

9. Tour the USS North Carolina Battleship

Where: Wilmington

Why now: A great day trip for staycationers or grandparents, the massive WWII Battleship docked across from downtown Wilmington is a fascinating history lesson. Because much of the tour involves exploring the outdoor decks and tight interior quarters, it is far more enjoyable when the coastal humidity isn’t at its peak. You’ll have more space to wander and take photos without navigating dense crowds.

10. Walk Brookgreen Gardens

Where: Myrtle Beach area (Murrells Inlet)

Why now: This property is massive—over 9,000 acres of sculpture gardens, wildlife exhibits, and historical sites. It is simply stunning, particularly during the spring Azalea bloom. However, the sheer amount of walking required makes it difficult to enjoy in the summer heat. Take the short drive down to Murrells Inlet now to enjoy the gardens, the Lowcountry Zoo, and perhaps a pontoon boat tour in perfect walking weather. It’s a spectacular way to entertain the grandkids for an entire day.

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