Ocean Isle Beach, the center island in the string of three known as the South Brunswick Islands, is home to 425 full-time residents with a seasonal population of 25,000. This beach has the only high-rise hotel on the South Brunswick Islands. Ocean Isle welcomes visitors to a beautiful and peaceful place.

This coastal barrier island was incorporated as the Town of Ocean Isle Beach in 1959. The island is approximately seven miles long and provides a family beach environment with a total resort experience: restaurants, specialty shops, public tennis courts, access to all watersports, a water slide, miniature golf and a museum (see our Attractions chapter). The Ocean Isle Beach Community Center is open during March through November. Planned activities for adults are held in the spring and fall with children's activities scheduled during the months of June, July and August. The Town of Ocean Isle Beach has recently purchased approximately 2 acres of land for the construction of a new Town Hall complex. In the mainland portion of the town you will find an airport (see our Getting Here, Getting Around chapter) that makes Ocean Isle accessible by air, but don't expect to see commercial jets at this small facility.

The Ocean Isle Beach Land Conservancy, an independent nonprofit group, was formed in 2003 to preserve open space for conservation and public recreation and to educate the public about the importance of conserving coastal land. Old Ferry Landing Park is a project in which this group is involved jointly with the town. Planned here are a gazebo, a children's playground, a walkway, parking, a fishing platform and a kayak/canoe launch site. The group hopes to create 4 miles of walkways on the island marshes as well.