Sunset Beach NC Webcam

Sunset Beach is Better Than Ever!

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 10:51:00 -0400

Summer at Sunset Beach is even better!

The new Sunset Beach Bridge has been open & operating smoothly now for 18 months and the most commonly asked question is, how has it changed the island? Most of us would agree that Sunset Beach is still the same idyllic island it has always been, only better.

As many of you current Sunset Beach lovers already know, the island of Sunset Beach is uniquely accruing more sand each year. Therefore our oceanfront homes tend to get a bit farther from the ocean, making our pilgrimage from sand to sea longer each year as well. The town of Sunset Beach works to improve the public wooden beach access walkways during the winter months, either by adding a few extra feet or fresh new railings. The young un-weathered lumber is easily seen and much appreciated.

If you have ever visited the Sunset Beach Gazebo or parked close to the pier to enjoy the central location, you’re sure to have seen or used the less than desirable port-a-johns. Great News! There are now NEW & Improved facilities for public use. This may seem insignificant to most, but you Sunset Beach lovers totally get this. There are 2 units located in the pier parking lot, one is close to the pier and the other at Main St. Each unit contains a men’s, women’s, and handicap facility complete with A/C & sinks. The units are open 7am to Sunset.

Another delicate subject that has been improved upon is the installation of a central sewer system on the island. Each of the island homes & businesses have been maintaining a private septic system which has caused limitations. Don’t worry, the island will not turn into a high-rise commercialized area. There is still a 35 ft. height restriction building code on the island that will help us keep the high-rises away. The public sewer system has a new yellow housing facility on North Shore Drive near 5^th St. that will virtually go unnoticed. Sometimes the best improvements are the unseen ones.

The most recent update is the new Sunset Beach Boat Ramp which had the grand opening today, Friday, June 29^th at 11am. We are very excited about the convenience this will offer our local & vacationing boaters. Those of us that LOVE to boat remember the days of using the area by the old bridge as a boat ramp. It was common to see a vehicle stuck and high tide creeping near the rear bumper, making us all cringe. No more! We will now have an easily accessible boat ramp, and I’m looking forward to trying it out.

Last, but certainly not least, SunsetBeachNCWebcam is tickled to offer 3 LIVE WEBCAMS 24/7 for everyone to enjoy Sunset Beach virtually from anywhere! The 2 new latest cameras provide a live view of the Sunset Beach Pier and an Oceanfront view towards Bird Island. We feel confident you will enjoy the webcams on your smart phone and your computers. I personally love to make any one of the webcams full screen and keep it open while I’m working….I need to see if a sick-day is coming on!

We want you to come see Sunset Beach for yourself, whether it’s been a few years, a few months, a few hours since you’ve been here. If you have never been to Sunset Beach, we believe you will fall in love with one of the many comforts this paradise island has to offer.

The Old Sunset Beach Bridge

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:23:00 -0400

The Old Sunset Beach Bridge

Anyone that knows me knew that I was a fan of the “Old Sunset Beach Bridge.” I loved the sound of old boards creaking when my car crossed over the bridge, how the floating section kept me in touch with the rising and falling of the tides, and I even loved saying, “Sorry we’re late, we were stuck at the bridge,” as if we were members of an elite club. I miss it. I miss knowing that 24 hrs/day there was a dedicated bridge tender watching over the one-lane connection from the cruel world to the peaceful island I call home, especially on these winter nights when there’s so few us on the island. I still catch myself timing everything around the top of the hour, leaving the house at 10 min. till. Again, I miss it. Of course, I’ve mindlessly driven down the road to go to over the old bridge, catching myself & laughing a little. I miss sitting at the red-light and waving to others I know, while we waited for our turn to crossover. I liked watching the boats pass through imagining the adventures that awaited them and tropical waters they would see. My family would say we didn’t mind that old bridge, because it kept us fed for many years. And it certainly did. One man’s vision brought so much to a “Bald Beach” and enhanced countless lives. I will miss it for a long time, but time is a Blessing and works wonders in my life, especially at the beach.

Sadly, Friday, January 7, 2011, the Old Sunset Beach Bridge opened for the very last time. The old bridge was still being used as a service access while English Construction removed the road on the island side leading to the old bridge.

The faithful bridge tenders arrived and signed the log one final time. The center section of the bridge was then floated over to the mainland, very close to the main construction site. The Old Sunset Beach Bridge is currently being relocated on land owned by Ronnie & Clarice Holden near Island Breeze on Shoreline Drive. The Old Bridge will be refurbished and be turned into a museum, all through extensive efforts by The Old Sunset Beach Bridge Preservation Society and their dedicated members. Preserving the Old Sunset Beach Bridge is an expensive task funded by this non-profit society, and any donations to the cause are greatly appreciated.

Just last week, our local news reported that The Sunset Beach Town Council approved a contract to conditionally purchase the waterfront land located between Crabby Oddwaters Restaurant and Twin Lakes Restaurant. The proposed use of this land will be for a Town of Sunset Beach Public Park. The purchase of this land has been debated for some time now, and will not likely be finalized anytime soon. If you’ve visited the island recently, you may have seen the installation process of a Central Sewer System has begun. We recommend following all Sunset Beach, NC updates, including upcoming changes in island parking regulations, by checking with the Town of Sunset Beach’s website.

Today, like every day, I drove over the new high-rise Sunset Beach Bridge and marvel at the view like it’s the first time I’ve seen Sunset Beach from 65 feet. I’m on the journey of learning to love the new bridge. The goats on their island, the birds all around and the endless blue ocean dotted with boats are enjoyable sights from the new bridge. Walking on the bridge is invigorating and many are enjoying the stroll along with the scenery. When the new bridge first opened, you could park on an island side shoulder for a quick walk to the top. It was great! Recently this area has been blocked off for us regular folks, with a sign stating “Emergency Vehicles Only.” Another change you should be aware of is the speed limit. For as long as I can remember, the speed limit on the causeway was 45 mph. NOT ANYMORE. The speed limit is now 35 mph from the moment you drive up the bridge all the way to the stop sign at the pier, and many of us were unaware of this change. Be sure you pay attention, PLEASE don’t get caught speeding.

Last but not least, if you’ve always wanted to own property at Sunset Beach, NC, this is an excellent time for a deal. Prices are low and the possibilities are abundant. An Oceanfront Lot just sold at a price that was unheard-of just a few years ago. Sunset Beach still offers the most gorgeous, spacious beach around providing hours of free entertainment only steps away from an island cottage. Look for all sunset properties for sale on the island at www.sunsetbeachsales.com. Even better, we welcome you to visit Sunset Beach, NC. You just might fall in love with the area and then one day, you’ll miss it.

Video of The Old Sunset Beach Bridge being moved

The New Sunset Beach Bridge is now OPEN!

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 15:57:00 -0400

New Bridge is OPEN!

On November 11, 2010, without any formal announcement or fanfare, the New Sunset Beach Bridge became open to traffic. It was approximately 3pm on Veteran's Day, and those of us that travel over the old bridge multiple times daily were just discussing an announcement we had heard of the Official Bridge opening to be held at 8am on Friday, Nov. 12th. We were joking with each other over who would be the first ones over and how it would be difficult to get to work on time if there was a long line. You see, most of us have had to answer the question of "When is the new bridge opening?" more times than we could count, and we simply did not know when. With our patience worn thin, our vehicles rattling apart, we were ready for our heartfelt attachment to the old bridge to become a memory. As I checked my watch to make sure it was not the top of the hour, I headed out the door to go off the island. It's funny the habits we develop, but I looked down Sunset Blvd. and saw the old bridge was open for boat traffic and immediately new I'd be late for my appointment. But, where was this oncoming traffic coming from? Was it broken, again? Then suddenly, there I am slowly ascending the new bridge with a high tide view that is astounding! A few words immediately came to mind as I'm driving over this controversial bridge....Gradual, Quiet, Smooth & What A View. As you can imagine, cars have steadily been crossing the new bridge and many pedestrians, too. I have never been comfortable with the idea of being a pedestrian on a bridge when cars are passing by....there's no where to go if a vehicle swerves in my direction. So, I took the opportunity on Nov. 1st to be one of the thousands that walked the new bridge, and was very impressed. I believe you will be impressed as well.

I can honestly say I will miss the clunkety-clunkety sounds of cars crossing the old bridge, the siren that signaled boats it's safe to pass through, timing my schedule by the top of the hour, and habit will always force me to have a good book in the car just in case. However, to have a Bird's Eye view of the beautiful little islands full of life, the ebb & flow of the tides, and the most amazing beach I've ever called home from 65 feet high, it's a grand & marvelous feeling.

Are you ready for some Oysters?

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 07:13:00 -0400

Are you ready for some Oysters?

Oyster season officially begins today, October 15^th and we kick it off in style each year by celebrating the North Carolina Oyster Festival. October 16 & 17, 2010 is the 30^th anniversary of the ever popular NC event held at Ocean Isle Beach, NC and hosted by Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce. With over 45,000 people attending, you don’t have to be an oyster lover to enjoy the sites, sounds & smells of a good time for all ages. In fact, the NC Oyster Festival won the 2007 award for North Carolina event of the year! Admission is only $5 per person while kids 8 & under are FREE.

The sites include Arts & Crafts Vendors, live music with dancing, a kid’s area, a FREE NASCAR simulator, and of course, the Oyster Shucking Contest (Sat 4-6pm) which is truly a thrill to witness.

The smells include delicious food vendors serving a variety from Gyros, chowders & BBQ sandwiches to homemade ice cream & funnel cakes. Be sure to taste the succulent local oysters and pick your personal favorite in the Oyster Stew Cook-off Sunday at Noon.

The sounds of the bands will make you smile. The music starts early on Sat. and will end with a Shag Contest on Sunday.

Music Schedule:

Saturday Sunday

10am-12pm Craig Woolard Band 10am-12pm New Beginnings Praise Band

12pm-2pm Coastline Band 12pm-2pm Band of Oz

2pm-4pm Legends of the Beach Band 2pm-5pm The Imitations (Shag Contest)

4pm-6pm The Painted Man

Are you a runner? If so, be sure to enter the Road Race which includes a Fun Run, a 5K and a 10K for whatever level runner you are.

We sure hope you come to enjoy the Oyster Festival or visit our area this fall. The weather is perfectly comfortable usually in the 70’s, the summer crowds have faded, and the island feels like a private paradise once more. And yes, as of today, we still have the old Sunset Beach Bridge in operation. The Bridge Dedication, held Oct. 1^st, was a success as well as the Sunset at Sunset Celebration which was Oct. 2^nd. Our sources tell us traffic will be directed on to the new bridge sometime next week (around the 20^th of October)- so come take one more drive over our historic Sunset Beach bridge.

So, if you are ready, let’s go walk on Sunset Beach this gorgeous morning down to the “Kindred Spirit” mailbox, head to Calabash for some roasted oysters for lunch and then welcome some weekend guests over at The Sunset Inn. I hope to see you!

August Already?

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:34:00 -0400

August Already?

Yes, it is August already and I’m scratching my head wondering where this summer has gone. Although there have been some hot days I thought would never end, the speed that time moved during June & July must have broke records this year. And what a beautiful summer we have had at Sunset Beach! You Sunset Beach lovers know how difficult it is to paint the picture of this pristine island for those who have never seen it. Believe us when we tell you the island is as beautiful as it sounds. I’ve met a lot of 1^st time visitors to the island of Sunset Beach this year ranging from California to London, & Indiana to the Dominican Republic, all singing high praises of this 2½ mile long piece of paradise. Even if you live right here in North Carolina, come see how a naturally growing island looks before the days of summer pass you by.

Of course, you will want one last drive over the historic one lane floating pontoon swing bridge at Sunset Beach, NC which has served us well as the only access on & off the island. The current bridge, built in 1961, replaced a cable swing bridge built by Mannon C. Gore in 1958 and is the last remaining bridge of it’s kind crossing the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. Officials tell us that by the end of September, 2010 (yes-Next Month!) traffic will be directed on to the new 65 ft. bridge currently in the final stages of completion. English Construction will then begin work on the removal of the temporary road and the still undecided future of the historic swing bridge. The Sunset Inn is currently selling 16 X 20 prints circa 1984 of the Sunset Beach historic bridge for only $45. Quantities are limited, so get one today!

A Sunset Beach Bridge Dedication will be held Friday October 1, 2010 at 4pm with a reception immediately following at Sea Trail. Tickets can be purchased at Sunset Beach Town Hall for $25.

Sunset At Sunset Celebration will be held this year Saturday October 2, 2010 beginning at 10am. The location is beside Ingram Planetarium and the celebration will be full of vendors, music, area information & family entertainment. Make plans now to attend!

Turtle Hatching Update- There have been a couple of nests that successfully hatched in August on Sunset Beach, which is wonderful! The volunteers excavated both of these nests and counted the eggs with many spectators waiting to see if any unborn turtles would make their way into the ocean. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any hatch during the excavation but I was lucky enough last year to witness quite a few born with only a hand full of us around. I have attached photos of the sweet baby turtles on their journey. There is a nest due to hatch within the next 2 weeks on the very east end of the island. If you have never seen them hatch, it’s a joyous sight full of wonder that everyone should witness at least once.

MS Bike Ride to Sunset Beach, NC- Great news! The 25^th Anniversary MS Bike Ride will be a “Breakaway to the Beach” held September 25^th & 26^th, 2010. We are very excited that thousands of bicyclists will donate their time & training to ride from Charlotte or Columbia to Sunset Beach, NC to raise funds for the MS Society. Citizens & Businesses can show support by donating time or funds to the cause. We especially look forward to welcoming these cyclists to our area!

As always, we hope to see YOU at Sunset Beach, NC soon. Stop by any Sunset Beach business to say hello and tell them you read about the island on SunsetBeachNCwebcam.com!

Sizzlin' Hot Summertine!

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 23:05:00 -0400

Sizzlin’ Hot Summertime!

Do you like it hot, hot, hot? Seems like just yesterday I was so anxiously awaiting some heat so I could put on some shorts & flip-flops. Thousands were watching it snow thinking it would never stop. Summertime brought the heat and so much more! A busy Memorial Day Weekend lead to the end of school, and now it’s kind of an “open the flood gate” feeling that has made the summer rush & heat begin. I heard someone say “It’s like an ant farm tipped over” and happy vacationers, along with myself, are loving the summer heat at the beach! No need to complain about the temps, this is exactly how most people expect summer at the beach to feel….in August, but we get to enjoy it all summer. The sun is shining, a little breeze is blowing and the ocean water is heavenly.

I find it refreshing that at least 3 people per week ask me how our current Sunset Beach Floating Swing/Pontoon Bridge works. These are newcomers to the island that have never seen the bridge or our beautiful beach and their questions are truly priceless. I am reminded that many island visitors are unaware of the hourly openings for boat traffic and “on-demand” openings for commercial vessels. Simply stated, make every attempt to crossover the bridge prior to the top of the hour to avoid a delay. The bridge opening usually lasts approximately 15 minutes, depending on the amount of boat traffic. The center section floats and swings out using an underwater cable, hence the name Sunset Beach Floating Pontoon/Swing Bridge. The Floating Pontoon Bridge has been the only access on & off Sunset Beach since the island was developed in 1958, and many Sunset Beach lovers believe it adds historic charm to the 2½ mile island. As an island resident, I will forever be checking my watch with thoughts of the bridge opening, even when it is long gone.

Progress with the new bridge has been steady & inevitable. The last spans were set in place early June, providing a clear vision of what the completed bridge will look like. English Construction has verbally confirmed a completion date of September 1^st. The official Bridge Dedication Ceremony is Friday, October 1^st at 4pm and more info is available at Sunset at Sunset. The Town of Sunset Beach & The Sunset at Sunset Steering Committee are creating a Remembrance Book which will display shared thoughts or memories of the Sunset Beach Floating Pontoon Bridge. Be sure to submit your entry no later than Wednesday, September 8^th. The final masterpiece will be unveiled at the Bridge Dedication and remain on display at Sunset Beach Town Hall.

It’s Turtle Time at Sunset Beach! This is the time of year when the Loggerhead Sea Turtles come ashore and make their nests. The Sunset Beach Turtle Patrol wants to remind all not to disturb the turtles in their efforts and DO NOT disturb the nests. Please report any turtle activity you may witness to the Turtle Patrol, and learn more every Sunday at 7pm at Sunset Properties parking lot.

With the 4^th of July quickly approaching, I researched the local fireworks schedule. Calabash will be having their 2^nd Annual July 4^th Celebration on Sunday, July 4^th. Located at the Calabash riverfront, there will be food & craft vendors along with local bands which begin at 4pm. The Embers are scheduled to begin playing between 6 & 7pm until the Fireworks show at 9pm. Event planners advise bringing lawn chairs. Last years fireworks were great and easily viewed from the island of Sunset Beach.

Calabash, 2^nd Annual July 4^th Celebration…………………..Sunday, July 4^th 9 pm

Cherry Grove, SC located at Cherry Grove Pier……………Sunday, July 4^th 9 pm

Wilmington, NC Battleship Fireworks…………………………Sunday, July 4^th 9:05pm

Southport, NC 4^th of July Celebration…………………….….Monday, July 5^th 9 pm

In closing, I would like to thank the kind comments & replies you take the time to share. SunsetBeachNCwebcam.com was created as an affordable way for local businesses to advertise via the internet. Our goal is not to be authorities or experts on bridge activities, merely to help Sunset Beach lovers feel connected and somewhat updated. As year round residents, small business owners & parents, we are vested in our community and believe Sunset Beach, NC is an amazing place to visit & live.

Sunset Beach In Southern Living Magazine!

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 13:40:00 -0400

Shhh…It’s a Secret Beach

Sunset Beach, NC & Bird Island may have been a very well kept secret for 55 years until the April issue of Southern Living Magazine. It was a surprise to many when our 2 ½ mile island was one of 10 of the South’s Most Secret Beaches. Of course to Sunset Beach lovers, it was no surprise at all. The article nicely yet briefly describes our wide, spacious beaches and features an appropriate sunset photo of the beach. It’s funny how when you know a secret getaway, you so badly want to tell others what a treasure you have found, but if you do, it’s not a secret getaway anymore. Here at Sunset Beach with an island that continues to accumulate more sand every year, we can afford to let a few more know about our secret beach. Let’s just continue to treasure it.

It was certainly no secret that Sunset Beach was the place to be this Spring & Easter Break. The weather has been gorgeous with warm sunny days and cool breezy nights. The kind of weather when you can throw the windows open and let the pollen in. Sweet Springtime, that I love so much, won’t last long before we are complaining about the heat. Easter Sunday was a beautiful beach day and my family enjoyed the glorious morning at the Easter Beach service, along with countless others. No need for a fancy dress or 3 piece suit here, flip flops & a beach chair are the accessories of choice. With daughters I usually fuss over to look just right Easter morning, this was definitely my favorite Easter Sunday ever… and theirs too!

Local Activities this spring include:

* Holden Beach Day at The Docks April 24 & 25^th

*The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Brunswick County

April 30^-May 1^st

*The Far Out Shoot Out Fishing Tournament May 7-15^th

*The Blue Crab Festival in Little River, SC May 15^th & 16^th

Find the time to travel to Sunset Beach in the spring and you won’t be disappointed.

Just Imagine March at Sunset Beach

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 00:18:00 -0400

Just Imagine March at Sunset Beach!

Just imagine 70 degree sunshine, a wide open beach, flowers coming to life, wildlife visible again and practically having an island to yourself. That's what life is like in March at Sunset Beach, NC. A better indication of spring's arrival than the likes of a groundhog's shadow, are the gators in the sun and the dolphins in the waterway. Makes you just say "Ahhhhh...Spring is here!" Funny how quick the seasons seem to change and the warm air blows in. Hey you, why imagine it when you can be here too? Sunset Beach officially invites you to head to our 2 1/2 mile island to see the Kindred Spirit, Beautiful Bird Island, the growing beaches and so much more. There are many spring local events providing entertainment for all types. We have attached a schedule of them to this blog, but be sure to check for exact dates.

The new Sunset Beach Bridge work continues and the spans are all almost completely in place. Some days there are spectators parked for hours entranced at the bridge work in progress. Each day work is visible and interesting, anticipating the final completion. After speaking with English Construction, they are confident that traffic will be traveling on the new bridge before the fall season arrives. Many questions have been raised about the old bridge, with no definite answers yet. What will happen to the old Sunset Beach Bridge? North Carolina Dept. of Transportation gets to decide the fate of our beloved Bridge.

Spring in all it's splendor won't last long. Before we know it, the hot summer will be upon us. Spring Break, Easter Break, use any reason you can to get away to Sunset Beach in the spring and you won't be disappointed. Why imagine March at Sunset Beach, when you can be here to enjoy it?

March

Brunswick Islands Home & Garden Show
Shallotte
(800) 426-6644 or (910) 754-6644
www.brunswickcountychamber.org

Battleship NORTH CAROLINA Behind the Scenes Special tour
Wilmington
(910) 251-5797 ext. 3006
www.battleshipnc.com

Taste of Southport
Southport
(910) 279-4616

Pi Day at Ingram Planetarium
Sunset Beach
(910) 575-0033
www.ingramplanetarium.org

Amateur Wine Competition Medal Ceremony
Silver Coast Winery
(910) 287-2800
www.silvercoastwinery.com

Remember When Oldies Music Festival
La Belle Amie Vineyard
(843) 399-9463
www.labelleamie.com

April

Southport Spring Festival & Azalea Sale
Shallotte
(910) 279-4616

A Day at The Docks Festival
Holden Beach
(910) 842-7355

North Brunswick Spring Festival
Leland
(910) 383-0553

North Carolina Azalea Festival
Wilmington
(910) 794-4650
www.ncazaleafestival.org

SNOW at Sunset Beach 2010!

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:41:00 -0400

SNOW at Sunset Beach 2010!

Oh boy, did we get snow at Sunset Beach. Anticipating the snowfall on Friday, peope were busy stocking up supplies for our first major snowfall in years. The big white flakes started falling on the island around 7pm Friday night and rewarded us all with a gorgeous blanket of snow by morning. Early Saturday morning I began my walk to work and narrowly missed falling many times. Words can not describe how beautiful, peaceful and serene the island was with snow everywhere. Because we never see snow, I can only guess that we got about 3 inches, but it was perfect. Perfect snow for snowballs, snowmen, and snowcream. It was lovely crunchy snow that my kids have never seen at the beach. The roads conditions were fine and carloads of people began heading on the island for photos of snow at the beach. The kids made the snowgirl complete with bikini top & sunglasses, we had a few snowball fights and had little luck at sledding, but we had a blast. As quickly as we got the snow, it melted by Saturday afternoon. In fact, guests arriving at the Inn Saturday afternoon barely believed me when I told of the morning adventures. Hope you enjoy the photos and hopefully you enjoyed the snow you got at home, too.

Snow is coming down and Things are looking Up!

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 22:09:00 -0400

Snow is coming down and Things are looking Up!

Yes- It is snowing at Sunset Beach, NC! As I load the newest photos of the Bridge construction here at Sunset Beach, the snow is steadily falling on the island of Sunset Beach. The temperatures have been colder than usual and perfect for rarely seen snow at the beach, but we haven't seen the white flakes fall until tonight. We've watched the news, talked to family and even traveled to see snow for our kids' sake, but each time our temps drop, the rain stops....Until now. Because it is rare for us to experience the snow, to the majority of the locals and all of the kids, it's a beautiful sight. The clean, fresh look of a blanket of snow at the beach is gorgeous. Our local meteorologists say we might even get 2-4 inches, which is very rare for us. As beautiful as the past snow photos of our old Sunset Beach Bridge are, I imagine that tomorrow morning's snow photos will be different. The new bridge has taken major transformations in less than 30 days and the photos are a great timeline of the change. We spoke with the project manager of the bridge about these changes and they are on schedule for the Dec. 2010 completion date. I personally expected much longer/larger Span Beams to be used, but have since been advised otherwise. It's too complicated for me to explain, but so fascinating to watch.

Happy Valentine's Day to all and I will post some new snow photos as soon as I can. Of course, you can always see the webcam for immediate views of the snow falling & the bridge construction!

The Spans! The Spans!

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:51:00 -0400

It was quite a site yesterday, Sunday Jan. 10th, as the big beams that will span across the ICW as the center section of the new Sunset Beach Bridge arrived. The big boys arrived late in the afternoon on a barge powered by a tug boat which traveled south up the ICW. We watched as the barge carefully turned towards the island and fit perfectly beside the barge carrying the jumbo crane. Yes, I know these are technical words, so try to keep up. I've had a some friends asking if they had arrived yet, and I wanted to let you all know. I took a photo early this morning of the two boats side by side, as workers were already busy. We'll keep you posted!

New Year, New You?

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:35:00 -0400

New Year, New You?

I recently saw this line as a title on a TV show, so curiously I looked to see what wisdom would be offered to make me new. All too happy to see 2009 go like a bad dream I wanted to wake up from, I’m thinking I’m ready for “New.” Of course, it was exercise and diet products for sale with the promise of a “New You.” Ironically, I had wished for the Wii Fit edition for Christmas, but instead was given an extremely comfortable recliner. Funny, don’t you think? After a busy, yet blissful Christmas, with wonderful travels to remember, and thoughtful gifts from family, all I could think about was coming home to my new recliner. Still, all the hoopla to make a New Year’s Resolution bugs me. Realistically, we tend to set out sights high and then get upset with ourselves when failure occurs. Determined not to make a resolution but more of a goal for myself, I decided to put time and effort into my family with humility, kindness and patience. I tell myself not to get caught up in the media’s view of who I should be or what I should have, since they try to tell me what to think anyway. Just as my new goal was marinating in my mind, my 13 year old walks in the room and blurts out, “This was the best Christmas I remember. Our family is closer than ever.” Anyone that knows 13 year olds knows what a profound statement this was. It was a precious moment for me. With all the hurdles thrown at us in 2009, the joy to see it go, at least I had a year that somehow brought my family closer. So, now I’m thinking… who needs new anyway?

Speaking of “new”, the new Sunset Beach Bridge is still on target for December 2010. It’s hard to believe that this time next year we’ll be driving over the 65 ft. high bridge with quite a view of the island. Each day I’m expecting to see the longer spans arrive by barge for the center section of the bridge. The jumbo crane arrived on Wed., Jan 6^th by boat and I included a photo of this monster crane with the others of the bridge & Sunset Beach Island.

Many of you reading this may be getting quite sick of the cold & snowy weather where you live. Although the temps are still a little chilly here as well, the golfers remain in action. Almost daily I see them enjoying the #8 Maples Fairway at Sea Trail Golf Resort and the grass couldn’t be any greener at Crow Creek in Calabash! Now is a perfect time to plan an escape to Sunset Beach with the promise of temps near 60 degrees by Friday of next week. If you haven’t already done so, I would also be reviewing Sunset Beach vacation home rentals to find the perfect one for your visit. The Island has many fine vacation rental homes to choose from and we would love to link with the vacation rental sites on the island. Be sure to mention the webcam when making your next reservation. The Sunset Inn (www.thesunsetinn.net) on the island of Sunset Beach is the only Bed & Breakfast on the island and features 14 gorgeous rooms with nightly rentals. Located marsh front with private screened porches, it is ideal for couples or singles making a getaway anytime to Sunset Beach!

Last but not least, if you’ve always wanted to own property at Sunset Beach, NC this could be the right time for a deal. Currently there is an excellent Oceanfront ½ Duplex priced at $795,000! You could own a mid-island home priced in the $300K’s! Look for all sunset properties for sale on the island at www.sunsetbeachsales.com or come visit and see for yourself.

I hope you have a “new” and improved 2010 and we hope to see you soon at Sunset Beach!

Turkey at the beach...

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:35:00 -0400

Turkey At The Beach...

Thanksgiving at the beach will always mean

Get ready for family; shop, cook & clean.

Turkey, ham & stuffing we ate

Collards, yams and more on my plate.

Forks were flying as our lips smacked

Leftovers where? The fridge is packed!

“Now let’s play a game” the kids did yell

Too sleepy to fight, under the tryptophan spell

Guesstures can be a humorous game,

But a family feud started with those kids to blame.

Play some corn toss & golf, walk on the beach

Hear the ole “No Christmas gifts for me” speech

Steamed oysters & shrimp on Saturday night

The fire from the chimnea felt just right.

Sunday comes, it’s time they go

Goodbye, goodbye, we love you so!

Clean again, find my terrified cat

Sit down to relax and think, “It wasn’t so bad”

Only 3 weeks till Christmas when we gather once more

I think maybe a Holiday cruise I’ll explore!

I always love to see my family come to Sunset Beach and we had excellent weather this year! My brother-in-law swears he saw me skipping & throwing confetti before they even got out of the driveway, but I made sure he was over the bridge by then. I hope you all got to enjoy Thanksgiving with the overeating, sleeping late & dysfunctional family time that comes with it.

If you were lucky enough to visit Sunset Beach this fall, I’m sure you were shocked at all the bridge construction that has taken place. It is really coming together as you can see from the photos I’ve posted. English Construction has confirmed that they are still on target with the December, 2010 completion date. The island businesses are preparing for the spring and two Sunset Beach businesses are launching new & improved websites. Be sure to check out www.thesunsetinn.net and www.sunsetvacations.com.

With the peace & quiet that comes in the fall months, the wildlife has come out to play on the island. We’ve enjoyed the bald eagles that grace us with their presence and the island deer roaming around. We feel lucky to share this little piece of paradise with all walks of life and hope you’ll make the time to visit Sunset Beach, too. The Christmas shows in Myrtle Beach, SC are amazing! The always enjoyable Shallotte Parade is this Saturday, December 5^th which starts at 10 am. Also, on December 5^th, Ocean Isle Beach is having an Island Home Tour hosted by the Museum of Coastal Carolina. The tour begins at the museum at 3pm; for more information go to http://www.museumofcc.org/. Yes the holiday season is busy and you have much to do, but all the shopping and relaxing you need is right here at Sunset Beach. We hope to see you soon!

Happy at Sunset Beach

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:40:00 -0400

Happy at Sunset Beach!

Don’t you just hate your co-workers, friends or just plain strangers walking around humming songs and acting like they don’t have a care in the world? You know those naturally “happy” people that seem unaffected by the economy that make you think, “Wonder what their secret is?” By golly, I’ve figured it out. It’s got to be one of two things…either it’s medication or they’ve got the beach on the brain. Specifically for me, it’s Sunset Beach, NC on the brain and I can’t seem to get enough. To me it’s the most wonderful time of the year (school starting back) and the weather is amazing. After some careful planning, I have made the time to savor moments on the beach; put the kids on a school bus, tie my sneakers and walk the island. One day I’m a starfish rescuer throwing the live ones back, the next I’m a dolphin watcher as they jump clear out of the water and this year I’m learning the patience of turtle nest watching, too. Hate me, but I’ve become a “happy” carefree islander and I wish the same for each of you. Reality is easier to handle after a deep breath of salty air & sandy feet and it’s blissful to be at the beach, even if it’s just on your mind.

It has been a long time secret of island lovers that Fall is the best time to enjoy the beach. This fall will be no exception and for many of you that came over Labor Day Weekend, you know what I mean. The mornings are cooler yet the water & sun are still ideal for beach days, golf, shopping, bicycling, or anything. Come look at Sunset Beach properties for sale (www.sunsetbeachsales.com) while the prices & interest rates are still low. I’m no expert, but there are great real estate deals on Sunset Beach and Dave Nelson knows the island properties like no other realtor in the area. We hope to see everyone at The Sunset At Sunset Celebration this year October 3^rd from 10am – 5:30pm (go to www.sunsetatsunset.com for more info). Also, make sure you plan a trip to the North Carolina Oyster Festival held at Ocean Isle Beach, NC October 17^th & 18^th this year which features live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, festival food, a road race, kid's area, North Carolina Oyster Shucking Championships and an Oyster Stew Cook-off. The Sunset Inn on the island of Sunset Beach has fantastic accommodations convenient to the festival. Go to the Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce (www.brunswickcountychamber.org) for more info about the NC Oyster Festival, which was named 2007 NC Event of the Year. Go to www.tripadvisor.com to get more info about The Sunset Inn or directly to www.thesunsetinn.net.

The Sunset Beach Bridge is progressing at a steady pace. We are happy to accommodate some of the Bridge builders at The Sunset Inn and they’ve told us everything is right on target with a completion date of Dec. 2010. Most recently, Shoreline Rd. beside Bill’s Seafood & Crabby Oddwaters has a newly paved section and is open to traffic. Also, the on-ramp to the new bridge has been paved. Be sure to check out the photos attached of the bridge and some of a recent turtle nest excavation where we got to witness the hatching of a lone late blooming turtle (so cute!). Better yet, come see it all in person and be the envy of your co-workers, friends, & just strangers in general when you’ve got the beach on the brain! Hope to see you happy at Sunset Beach soon.

August 2009

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:15:00 -0400

Need A Vacation?

Vacation- sounds great right? I looked up the definition for vacation and found that it means, “A period of rest from work or study.” Vacation to me means the opportunity to relax, not worry and enjoy. In the effort to do just that, most of us decide to escape our homes and daily worries by going to a destination that allows us to do that. Sunset Beach, NC is lucky enough to be one of those destinations. The island residents and employees have seen you arrive with the desperate look of “I need a vacation” on your faces and have watched you tearfully leave. Once you are home, you probably need another vacation! Believe me, I can relate. My family feels the need to escape ourselves, and we took our vacation in July. You might think we’re crazy to leave this beautiful island, but it is also where we “work or study.” So you may ask, where do you go on vacation when you live at Sunset Beach, NC? Well, it’s a secret place that only a few of us know, where we don’t watch T.V., we play in the water, ride on a boat, and don’t worry about email or government politics for awhile. Not entirely different from the feeling at Sunset Beach. We also feel that the year round residents of our destination are the lucky ones. Like you, we were willing to stay on vacation permanently, but had to return. The minute I crossed the one-lane draw bridge at Sunset Beach, I was happy to be home. It was amazing to see the progress on the new bridge in the time we were away, so I can imagine how impressive it is to many of you. All the reasons I love it here came flooding back to me, the smell of the ocean, the sounds of the birds, the humid breeze that curls my hair, and so much more. How about the way the moon lights up the beach at night, or the fun we have in the tide pools when the tide is falling, the delicious fresh seafood, the exciting deep sea fishing, the pristine golf courses, and especially the sights & sounds of the happy families on vacation (including my friend Skyler from New York). Sunset Beach will always be a favorite destination for countless people, home to a lucky few, and my favorite beach anywhere. Enjoy all that Sunset Beach offers, have safe travels and may we all have the opportunity to “vacation” more than just once a year!

A quick update on the bridge construction—the photos show the progress of the bridge work and the columns keep going up. There were rumors of and earlier completion date than Dec. 2010, but we verified with the head foreman and he is sticking with the original date. Also, Shoreline Drive East from Azalea Circle to HWY 179 near Bill’s Seafood is closed. It’s a temporary closing and traffic is routed to Park Road.

Turtle Hatching Update— I am sad to say there was some disturbing news about sea turtle hatchlings being taken at our neighboring beach of Ocean Isle. I have a link to the newspaper article that gives more details. http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20090807/articles/908079974

Please remember to not disturb any nests found and report any nests that are not protected and marked to www.sunsetbeachturtles.org.