Posted in North Carolina Attractions October 02, 2022 by

Watch Both Sunrise And Sunset At The Brunswick Islands, Unique South-Facing Beaches In North Carolina

Can we see sunrise and sunset at the same beach? When planning a day at the beach on the East Coast, you assume that the sunset in the west won’t be visible where you can watch the sunrise in the east. However, there are quite a few beaches in North Carolina where you can in fact watch both. The beaches around the Brunswick Islands face south, which means that from late fall to early spring it’s possible to set up and watch both the sunrise and sunset from the same spot.

You probably assume that East Coast beaches are a great place to see a sunrise since the sun rises in the east. However, for a good amount of North Carolina beaches during the right time of year, you can witness both sunrise and sunset from the same spot. Sunrise on the east coast is a spectacular sight when you can watch it coming up over the Atlantic.
Zach Frailey/Flickr
The beaches around the Brunswick Islands and in a couple of other spots actually face south. That means that you have prime viewing opportunity of a beach sunrise and a beach sunset.
Zach Frailey/Flickr
Catch the sunrise before going about your day and then come back before sunset to finish the day off with another beautiful sky. Or just have a beach day from sunup to sundown if you are feeling extra indulgent. There's no bad way to enjoy the beach. Make sure to bring a picnic if you’re coming for the beach sunset to make it extra special.
Zach Frailey/Flickr
This is only possible from fall to winter because of the earth's axis and rotation during these months. The sun is just far enough south that you can watch the sunrise and then set over the shoreline. But a winter sunrise on the east coast is special all year long.
Anne Marie Rowley/Flickr
Though all beachside sunrises and sunsets are gorgeous, catching this phenomenon is unique to only a handful of beaches on the East Coast. North Carolina is lucky to have an area full of beaches like this. It’s just one of the many reasons to visit Brunswick Islands in North Carolina.
L1mey/Flickr
Will you take the sunrise and sunset challenge on one of these south-facing beaches this year? It's definitely worth a spot on your bucket list if you're up for an extra-long beach day. Sunrise on the east coast never looked so good!
Marc R/Flickr

So the next time you’re wondering, “Can we see sunrise and sunset at the same beach?” You’ll know that if you head to Brunswick Islands, you can absolutely see them both from the same beach!

If you’re on the islands and wondering what to do, make sure to read all about the best things to do when visiting Brunswick Islands.

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Address: North Carolina, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Can we see sunrise and sunset at the same beach?

October 07, 2022
Megan McDonald

What is there to do on the Brunswick Islands in North Carolina?

There are so many things to do on the Brunswick Islands in North Carolina! We love to hit Oak Island to see the Oak Island Lighthouse, Oak Island Pier, or even hit a few balls at the Carolina National Golf Club. That is, of course, when we’re not hanging out at the beach.

How many beaches are there in Brunswick County in North Carolina?

You’ll find six beautiful beaches in this area, and everyone has their favorite! The six beaches are spread across five separate barrier islands that make up the Brunswick Islands. From Sunset Beach to Holden Beach, and everywhere in between, there’s a beach for every island!

Can you drive to the Brunswick Islands in North Carolina?

You can! It’s just a couple of hours from Raleigh, North Carolina and an easy drive. But once you settle down on the island of your choice, you may just find you want to ditch the car and spend your time walking along the beaches!