Calabash is a small coastal town located in Brunswick County, North Carolina, USA. Known for its proximity to Myrtle Beach, Wilmington and several other popular tourist destinations in the region, the town of Calabash promises you a scintillating experience.
It is named after the calabash tree, which produces a gourd-like fruit that has been used for centuries in many cultures for a variety of purposes. Calabash fishing town is also known for its seafood, especially its famous “Calabash-style” seafood, which is lightly battered and deep-fried.
This place is home to several seafood restaurants and is a popular destination for visitors who appreciate fresh seafood, beautiful coastal views, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. In addition to its seafood, Calabash offers visitors access to several golf courses, beaches, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
If you are planning a holiday in Calabash, North Carolina; here are some of the best tourist locations to explore:
Table of Contents
1. Calabash Waterfront:
The Calabash Waterfront is a popular destination for visitors, offering picturesque views of the Intracoastal Waterway and plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. Visitors can take a stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy fresh seafood, and shop for souvenirs. Don’t forget to check out the Calabash Waterfront Seafood Shack where you’d get a variety of fresh and local meals to enjoy with your friends and family.
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2. Sunset Beach:
Sunset Beach is a quiet and peaceful beach that welcomes tourists with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing, and visitors can also explore the nearby marshes and wildlife areas. This place is also a home for the Ingram planetarium and birding trail. So, if this is something that makes you happy, do check out Sunset Beach.
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3. Ingram Planetarium:
The Ingram Planetarium is a state-of-the-art facility located at Sunset Beach. Here visitors get the chance to explore the wonders of the universe. The planetarium features a dome theatre, exhibits on space and astronomy, and interactive displays. Sit there and enjoy the show about space and get some of your questions answered! This place also hosts a laser music show where visitors can get to see interactive sessions and become a part of it. The fees for this place are free for kids below 2, $6 for kids, $8 for adults, and $7 for senior citizens.
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4. Brunswick Islands:
The Brunswick Islands are a chain of barrier islands that plans a wide range of activities for visitors. These islands are known for their beaches, golf courses, and outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The island is made up of ten cities and six of those have their personal beaches. So, as you visit this place; you’d get to enjoy the sunset in various places.
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5. Myrtle Beach:
Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation destination located just a short drive from Calabash. This beach in North Carolina has a variety of attractions and activities, including amusement parks, water parks, shopping, and dining to make your day. You can also enjoy theatrical shows lined up for the visitors and take back loads of memories! Myrtle beach is famous for its golf courses and restaurants, so do check them out as well.
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6. Bald Head Island:
Bald Head Island is a unique destination that is only accessible by ferry. It is located on Cape Fear River’s east side and is known for its natural beauty, historic lighthouse, and diverse wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins. What’s so special about this place is that it has the oldest lighthouse known as the “Old Baldy”. You’d be welcomed by palm-filled forests and sandy beaches as you visit.
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7. Museum of Coastal Carolina:
The Museum of Coastal Carolina is a natural history museum located in nearby Ocean Isle Beach. The museum features exhibitions on local marine life, fossils, and Native American artifacts. You can see a touch tank, local wildlife, and sea ocean reefs here. If you love to visit museums and learn about history, add this place to your bucket list!
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8. OIB Surf and Java:
OIB Surf and Java is a popular coffee shop and surf boutique located in Ocean Isle Beach. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while browsing surf-inspired clothing, accessories, and gifts. As you come, the staff always greets you with a smile and makes you feel at home. Come here and enjoy the local favorites like smoothies, muffins, and espresso shots.
9. Aquarium of Ripley:
This interesting tourist spot is located at Myrtle Beach and connects you to a completely different underwater adventure. The aquarium is not only a home to animals like crabs, fishes, eels, sharks, and other sea creatures. Apart from that, this place also hosts live shows every day and gives you options for yoga classes, stingray experience, sleep with the sharks, and more. Come here and see plenty of exciting things!
10. Winery Silver Coast:
If you are a wine lover then this Winery is for you. It opened in 2002 and since then has been loved by locals and tourists. The winery was founded by Dr. Azzato and Maryann. It not only gives you the chance to taste different wine flavours but also gives you every information on its brewing process. There are other places here to enjoy like a gift store, art museum, and outdoor terrace. So take advantage of your visit to Calabash and attend the wine sessions by experts.
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11. Oak Island Lighthouse:
The Oak Island Lighthouse is located approximately 40 mins from Calabash town. It is a historic lighthouse located in Caswell Beach. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the surrounding coastline. You can come here to learn all about the history of the lighthouse and take a tour of the headquarters.
12. Ella’s of Calabash:
Time to enjoy local seafood delicacies! Ella’s is a family-owned food joint where the menu is sourced from local ingredients. You can visit with your friends and family to enjoy a night of beer, seafood, and loads of chit-chat! Testimonials reveal that the place is worth visiting on your tour.
13. Callahan’s of Calabash:
This is a gift shop where you’d get everything to take back home as a souvenir. It is one of the favorite Christmas shopping places for Calabash’s residents and visitors who come to the city always take a tour of the gift shop. Everything here is well-crafted and interesting. Do check it out!
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Conclusion
Overall, Calabash and the surrounding areas offer a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors, including beaches, museums, outdoor recreation, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing seaside vacation or an adventure-packed getaway, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of North Carolina.