Oceanfront Homes for sale in Ocean Isle Beach & Sunset Beach NC
Ocean Isle Beach is a tranquil barrier island town in Brunswick County, North Carolina, celebrated for its wide, uncrowded beaches, fishing pier, and authentic coastal charm. This small community (year-round population ~800–900, seasonal swell to ~25,000) offers a peaceful retreat with direct ocean access, canal-front living, and a welcoming atmosphere that attracts retirees and second-home buyers seeking genuine beach living without high-rises or crowds. With 10 miles of pristine shoreline and a relaxed small-town feel, Ocean Isle Beach provides the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience — close to Calabash’s seafood scene, Holden Beach, and Wilmington’s amenities. Suzanne Polino, who has been guiding clients to the Brunswick Islands for years, says Ocean Isle Beach stands out for its timeless appeal, strong property values, and ideal setting for retirement or seasonal escapes.
Beautiful Beaches & Waterfront Living
The heart of Ocean Isle Beach is its wide, family-friendly beaches with soft sand, gentle waves, and excellent shelling. The town pier is a favorite for fishing, sunset walks, and dolphin watching. Many homes offer direct beach access or canal-front living with private docks on the Intracoastal Waterway or back-river canals. The island’s waterfront setting provides a tranquil backdrop with tidal views, wildlife, and boating opportunities. Unlike busier beach towns, Ocean Isle Beach remains quiet and uncrowded, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the ocean on their own terms. Suzanne Polino often hears from clients how the wide beaches and peaceful atmosphere make every day feel like a vacation.
Amenities & Coastal Lifestyle in Ocean Isle Beach
Ocean Isle Beach offers a relaxed, active lifestyle with public boat ramps, parks, walking trails, and a small but vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants. The town is known for its fishing, boating, and family-oriented vibe, with no high-rises or heavy commercial development. Nearby Calabash provides world-famous seafood dining (Oyster Rock, Boundary House), and golf is abundant at nearby communities like Sea Trail and Crow Creek. The lifestyle here is simple and fulfilling — mornings on the beach, afternoons fishing or boating, evenings with fresh local catches. Suzanne Polino notes that many retirees choose Ocean Isle Beach for its genuine small-town charm and low-key coastal living.
Home Styles & Real Estate in Ocean Isle Beach
- Oceanfront single-family homes — premium properties with direct beach access and stunning views
- Canal-front and interior homes — private docks, water views, and easy boating access
- Condos and townhomes — low-maintenance options ideal for seasonal or retirement living
- Beach cottages and custom builds — charming, elevated designs with coastal character
Real estate in Ocean Isle Beach ranges from charming beach cottages to luxury oceanfront estates, with median home values around $520K–$530K (as of early 2026). The market remains strong due to limited inventory and high demand from retirees and investors. Suzanne Polino has helped many clients find their perfect Ocean Isle Beach home — she says the combination of direct beach access and small-town atmosphere creates lasting value and enjoyment.
Location & Proximity Advantages
Ocean Isle Beach is conveniently located in southern Brunswick County — 45 minutes from Wilmington (airport, hospitals, shopping), 1 hour from Myrtle Beach, and close to Calabash’s seafood restaurants and nearby golf communities. The island is connected by a bridge to the mainland, making daily life easy while preserving its secluded feel. The area offers low property taxes, mild winters (average high 60°F), and North Carolina’s retirement-friendly policies. Suzanne Polino knows every corner of the Brunswick Islands and can help you see why Ocean Isle Beach is one of the most desirable coastal towns for retirement and second homes.
Browse Ocean Isle Beach Homes for Sale
Explore the latest Ocean Isle Beach homes for sale above. If you’re ready to discover this beautiful barrier island, Suzanne Polino is available to provide a private tour or personalized market insights tailored to your lifestyle.
Suzanne Polino, REALTOR®
Coastal NC Real Estate Specialist
suzy@suzysellsnc.com
(910) 477-1378
SuzySellsNC.com
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