Brunswick County NC Real Estate | Brunswick Islands, Beaches & Golf
Last updated: February 27, 2026
Nickname
Brunswick Islands
Key Beaches
Holden Beach, Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach
Schools
Brunswick County Schools (22 schools, ~14,800 students)
Vibe
Beaches, golf, family
Brunswick County sits south of Wilmington along the Cape Fear Coast and South Carolina border. The Brunswick Islands — Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach — deliver family-oriented barrier island living. Leland offers Wilmington-commute proximity and explosive growth. Golf communities and retirement-friendly neighborhoods dot the landscape.
Living in Brunswick County
Holden Beach has been named one of "America's Best Family Beaches" by National Geographic Traveler. Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach offer similar family character. Leland has become one of the region's fastest-growing towns, with new subdivisions and amenities. Brunswick County Schools serves the area with 22 schools; see our family guide.
Real Estate in Brunswick County
Property types range from oceanfront and soundfront to golf-course and inland. Prices vary by location; Brunswick often offers more affordable coastal entry than New Hanover. Flood zones apply in coastal areas. Our team provides coastal property analysis and flood zone guidance.
Explore Brunswick County
- Leland — Wilmington commute, fastest-growing
- Ocean Isle Beach — Family beach, "Unchanged"
- Sunset Beach — Quiet island living
- Holden Beach — Family beach, National Geographic pick
Contact us for Brunswick County listings.
Cities & Communities
Frequently Asked Questions
The Brunswick Islands encompass Brunswick County's beach communities — Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Oak Island, and others. The region is known for family-oriented beaches, golf communities, and a mix of year-round and vacation-home living.
Brunswick County Schools operates 22 public schools serving about 14,800 students. The district has an 85% graduation rate with performance above state averages in math and reading. See our [Brunswick County schools guide](/blog/brunswick-county-schools-lifestyle) for details.
Brunswick County is south of Wilmington with generally more affordable coastal options. Holden Beach, Ocean Isle, and Sunset Beach offer family-oriented barrier island living. Leland provides Wilmington-commute proximity. Golf communities and retirement-friendly neighborhoods are widespread.