Ocean Isle Beach, NC, Tips for Visitors: Things to Do & More


Planning your stay in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, might seem straightforward, but a little local insight can make all the difference! The McClure Realty Vacations team has gathered a wealth of experience in offering Ocean Isle Beach vacation tips. We help guests find their ideal accommodations from a top-tier selection of Ocean Isle Beach vacation rentals, from cozy one-bedroom rentals perfect for romantic getaways to spacious homes ideal for multi-generational trips and large gatherings. We've compiled a few essential tips below to help you make the most of your visit!

3 Tips for Your Stay in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

The Grocery Stores Can Get Crowded on Saturdays During the Summer

Part of Ocean Isle Beach’s charm is that it is much less busy than other popular beaches along the North Carolina and South Carolina coasts. Ocean Isle Beach still experiences the occasional busy Saturday, though, when weeklong visitors settle into their vacation rentals and head to the grocery store for food. You can avoid the rush by bringing food from home if you’re driving from nearby. You could also order your groceries online from our local Lowes Foods.  

On the other hand, one of the best parts of traveling is getting to try new food at the local restaurants! Ocean Isle Beach has an incredible selection of local restaurants, and many have options for having your meal delivered to your vacation rental door, whether from their website or using a third-party service like Doordash or Uber Eats! Read our blog, A Foodies Restaurant Guide to the Brunswick Beaches, to learn more!

Save a Little Money on Summertime Entertainment With a Free Concert

Ocean Isle Beach proudly hosts free outdoor concerts during the summer season! See the best of Ocean Isle Beach’s local talent while listening to everything from country and shag to rock n’ roll and Motown in a family-friendly atmosphere!

Surf Fishing is Popular in Ocean Isle Beach, But There’s a Trick to It

Ocean Isle Beach is a fishing paradise, offering endless opportunities to reel in a great catch. One of the best surf fishing spots is at the easternmost inlet, where the Intracoastal Waterway meets the ocean. Below are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Flounder and red drum are common catches while surf fishing with live bait.

  • Use a drop-shot-style rig with a mud minnow, placing the hook about 18 inches above the weight for better results at catching flounders.

  • Live mullet or shrimp work exceptionally well for attracting red drum.

  • Cut squid or mullet make the perfect bait if you're targeting sharks, bluefish, or spotfish.

Choose From Any of Our Premium Ocean Isle Beach Vacation Rentals

The McClure Realty Vacations team is eager to lend you their local insider’s knowledge. Contact our office by phone at 800-332-5476 or email [email protected] and learn more about what you can expect from your time here. We can't wait to help you find your ideal accommodations from our excellent selection of vacation rentals in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Elevate your vacation experience with our options featuring amenities such as private pools, boat docks or ramps, private beach access, and much more! 

Book your stay with McClure Realty Vacations and enjoy all the fun things to do in Ocean Isle Beach, NC with these insider tips!