Daytrip Three: North Carolina Battleship in Wilmington, NC

Whether you are a lover of history, ships, firepower, or rare tours The USS Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington, NC is a must see! An easy drive up Highway 17 to 421, the grand ship is a breathtaking sight that holds so many memories of those who were aboard. The guided tours help bring those memories to life.

The Battleship was launched June 14th 1940 and commissioned April 19^th 1941. It was not long before she was put to the test and she and her crew saw battle in WWII. Surviving a torpedo attack during World War II this Battleship participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific area of operations and earned 15 battle stars. “In the Battle of the Eastern Solomon’s in August of 1942, the Battleship’s anti aircraft barrage helped save the carrier Enterprise, thereby establishing the primary role of the fast battleship as protector of aircraft carriers”. On your visit you will hear more tales like this and that of the SOS campaign to save the ship from becoming scrap metal in NJ and returning to its rightful place here in North Carolina.

This tour is a definite “thing to do” while visiting us here at The Sunset Inn and once you step board the magnificent vessel it will be a day you will not forget. For more information about tours you can visit www.battleshipnc.com. Below is a list of events coming up in the next few weeks & months:

Design & Damage Control
May 18, 2013
Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
$55 per person. $50 for Friends members or active military.

As the first of the 10 fast battleships which served in WWII, NORTH CAROLINA paved the way for those battleships that followed. In this four-hour program, participants will explore the ship and engage with experts on ship design. Topics include surviving a torpedo strike, fires, and loss of power; thwarting magnetism and unwanted waters from flooding; from shoring and shifting fuel oil to triage of casualties and effective communication. An interesting and insightful afternoon awaits inquiring minds.

The tour is limited to ages 16 and older and limited to 48 participants. It is not appropriate for those who have difficulty climbing narrow ladders or over knee-high hatches. Wear warm, comfortable, washable clothing, sturdy, rubber-soled shoes and bring a camera! Water and light snack provided. Registration and payment are due by Thursday, May 16. Program is $50/$45 for Friends of the Battleship or active military. Call 910-251-5797 for reservations.

8th Annual Memorial Day Observance
May 27, 2013
Time: 5:45 pm
FREE

On Memorial Day, May 27, 2013, at 5:45 pm, people of all generations from across the State will gather together on the deck of the Battleship to pay their respects. An emotional ceremony, preceding and concluding with military musical arrangements provided by an Armed Forces Band, and a 21-gun salute, the Executive Director of the Battleship, Captain Terry A. Bragg and members of the USS NORTH CAROLINA Battleship Commission invite the public to this free event. 

 17th Annual Battleship Blast
July 4, 2013
Time: 9:05 pm

Noted as Coastal Living's 10 Spots to Celebrate the Fourth and recent recipient of Southeast Tourism Society's award of Top 20 things to due in July, the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA will present the 2013 17th Annual Battleship Blast Fireworks.
The celebration will not disappoint and at 9:05pm the Battleship fireworks spectacular will begin. You don’t want to miss this year as the fireworks display will light up the skies of Wilmington.

Best view of amazing pyro technics is from downtown Wilmington as the entire Battleship complex on Eagles Island will be closed at 6:00pm and all vehicles will be required to leave by 6:30pm. Therefore, come early and visit the equally impressive Battleship North Carolina before the activities in the evening.

Battleship Alive!
September 28, 2013
Time: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Free with Battleship admission

Watch and interact with World War II living history interpreters as they bring the Ship to life by re-enacting daily duties and drills. Free with regular Battleship admission. Please call 910-251-5797 for more information.
 

 So if you enjoyed your first day trip to Southport, NC then why not venture just a little farther and explore Bald Head Island. You can catch the ferry from Southport and 20 minutes later you will be transported to an island paradise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, marsh inlets and lush greenery shading the pathways.

This island is special in that you can only explore it by renting bikes, a golf cart, or by walking. Leaving your cars behind when boarding the ferry, Bald Head Island reminds you to slow down, relax, and unwind while enjoying all the island has to offer.

Once on Bald Head Island you can head to the beach, visit the unique stores & art galleries, kayak through the inlets, and/or take in a round of golf at The Club. However, don’t miss the must see landmark,  the Old Baldy Lighthouse. The oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, Old Baldy is a grand stone work of art that can be toured for only $5.00 along with the small museum beside it. If you are not afraid of heights then climbing the spiral staircase to the very top is a must. The view is like no other. 

So while staying with us here at The Sunset Inn make sure to set aside some time to visit Bald Head Island.  Here are some upcoming events on Bald Head Island to entice you even more:

Saturday, May 11, 2013 Wine & Cheese Gala

Wine and Cheese Gala will take place on May 11th aboard "Patriot". The boat will depart at 5PM from the Bald Head Ferry Terminal. The entertainment will be provided by the New Century Saxophone Quartet and the tickets are $50.00 per person. If you wish to purchase by mail, send you Name, address and check to Friends of Music Society PO BOX 569 Fulton, MD 20759 and the tickets will be promptly mailed to you.

Friday, May 24, 2013 Middle Island Ibis Sanctuary

BHI Conservancy 9am-10:30am Middle Island/Ibis Sanctuary Hike Meet at the Barrier Island Study Center. visiting the Ibis Lake Sanctuary, a protected area of land that is private and only accessible with Conservancy staff. Reservations required. To register, please visit www.bhic.org or call (910) 457-0089 Personal golf cart transportation is required. $15 per person for BHI Conservancy Members $20 per person for non-members. 

Saturday, May 25, 2013 Island Wide Open Houses

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Island-Wide Open Houses Bald Head Island Limited Real Estate Sales presents a variety of homes to introduce you to the many real estate opportunities on the island. Pick up a flyer at the sales office located at 4 Marina Wynd near the ferry landing. 910-457-7400.

Monday, May 27, 2013 Birding BHI

BHI Conservancy 8:30am – 10:30am Birding BHI Barrier Island Study Center. During the summer we are home to a large nesting population of the beautiful painted bunting. The island is also home to hundreds of egrets, herons and ibis as well as dozens of other species. To register, please visit www.bhic.org or call (910) 457-0089. Cost: $15 per person for BHI Conservancy Members, Free for BHI Conservancy Lifetime Level Members, $20 per person for non-members.

Sunday, June 16, 2013 Father’s Day Cookout

Sunday, June 16: 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Father’s Day Cookout The Bald Head Island Club Grille Terrace & Palms Terrace $18.95 plus tax and service charge for adults $11.95 plus tax and service charge for children 12 years and under. Please call 910.457.7300 to make a reservation

Friday, August 02, 2013 Pirate Weekend

Treasure Hunt Starts @ 3 pm Island Wide Game 24 hours to play –only $25 per golf cart! Pirate Booty Auction @ 4:30 pm Tent Pavilion Silent Auction Begins An 1817 coin? Cocktails in Old Baldy? Hawaiian Quilt (handmade by Old Baldy Quilters) & more treasures! Pirate Block Party NO ADMISSION CHARGE! Beer & Wine Truck opens at 4:30pm BBQ, Cash Bar, Live Music with Rusty Cutlass. Party with the Pirates at Tent Pavilion! Pirate Invasion @ 5:30 pm FREE on the Marina Captain Horatio Sinbad Arrives on the Meka II BUY TICKETS www.oldbaldy.org Or 910.457.7481

Pirate Weekend

Saturday, August 03, 2013

Kids Schools Sign up for Scalawag or Pirate Artist $20 child Pirate & Pancakes Bald Head Island Club 10:30 am Feasting and songs with Rusty Cutlass! Buy tickets today—it fills fast! Duck Race 2 pm $500 First Prize Adopt a duck for $10 each or 11 ducks for $100 Pirate Ghost Walk @ 7:30 & 8:30 pm By Old Baldy $25 adult/$15 child BUY TICKETS www.oldbaldy.org Or 910.457.7481

Pirate Weekend

Sunday, August 04, 2013

Pirate Parade 11:30 am Over the Bridge! Don’t forget to decorate the golf cart & wear a pirate costume! Pirate Costume Contest @ Tent Pavilion Immediately after parade..must be in parade to enter. Pirate Festival NO ADMISSION CHARGE! Noon to 5 pm Pirate Encampment, Sword Fights and Black Powder Guns, Rusty Cutlass Music, Magic Shows, Crafts, Games & more! Yum...Beer & Burgers & Brats @ Grub Ship! Creativity Challenge @ Bald Head Association Friday thru Sunday Cool works of art created by friends and neighbors! Silent auction bids end on Sunday at 4 pm. A great way to pick up one of a kind gifts! All proceeds from Pirates Are Coming support Old Baldy! BUY TICKETS www.oldbaldy.org Or 910.457.7481

 Day Trip One: Southport

Whether you are a first time visitor to The Sunset Inn or you have been calling the Inn a home away from home for years we thought we might tell you about a few exciting places to visit while staying with us. The first in this series is the charming fishing village of Southport.

Southport is an easy drive from the Inn by just hopping on Highway 17 to Highway 211 and you are there. Once you arrive you will see historic store fronts that house antique shops, old book stores, art galleries, and craft shops. While strolling through town there are great places to stop for a bite to eat, The Pharmacy is a local favorite. From there the scenic waterfront park beckons with glistening blue water and park benches to sit and watch the sail boats drift by. Why not enjoy an ice cream cone or sundae while relaxing, those shops are close by too. 

While visiting this quaint picturesque town you might start noticing some familiar spots. How could a place you have never been to seem so familiar? Perhaps it is because Southport has been captured on film more than once. Author Nicholas Sparks, known for novels like The Notebook, Dear John, & The Last Song, also took to the area and the town has been featured in two of his adapted films. "A Walk To Remember" starring Mandy Moore and the recently released "Safe Haven" starring Julianne Hough & Josh Duhamel. Author Lois Duncan's novel "I Know What You Did Last Summer" also put Southport on the map in movies in 1997. These movies have created such a stir that tours are now being offered to take you around to experience the sights, sounds, and charm that graced the screen along with a history of the area. Tours start May 17th. To book a tour visit www.oldsouthtourcompany.com.

Southport also hosts numerous festivals & events over the year. Here are just a few: 

For more information on Southport and the town's events visit: www.southport-oakisland.com and click on Calendar of Events

Check back soon for our next blog: Day Trip Two: Bald Head Island and visit www.thesunsetinn.net to get more information about our area, see pictures of our rooms, and book on-line. If you would like more information don't hesitate to call us toll free at 1-888-575-1001. We hope to see you soon.   

Various Venues Around Town Wilmington, NC 28401

Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area 118 Riverfront Road Kure Beach, NC 28449

Airlie Gardens 300 Airlie Road Wilmington, NC 28403 Website: http://www.airliegardens.org/

A great place to visit while vacationing at The Sunset Inn

La Belle Amie Vineyard

April Music Fest

Saturday, April 20, 2013         Noon - 5 pm
Little River, SC

Enjoy an afternoon of live music from two talented bands.   Plus,  sample the many wine varieties of La Belle Amie, try our flavorful wine slushies, and enjoy the beauty of the vineyard.  The owner will give a vineyard tour (2:30).  Or, browse our great gift shop.   It doesn’t get any nicer than this.  Come share it with us!

MUSIC (12:00 – 5:00pm) BY:  The Mike McCoy Band, and The Necessary Experience

ADMISSION: $8/person. (under 18 or over 80 admitted free) Bring two canned/dry good items for area food banks and receive $3 off admission. Club Members Free.

Food Available From:    Smokin’  Pitt BBQ, and Hunts Lexington Style Cooking

BEVERAGES (Water, Soda, Beer, & Wine) Available From: La Belle Amie Vineyard

SORRY, ABSOLUTELY NO FOOD, BEVERAGES OR PETS ALLOWED INTO THIS EVENT

Remember, bring a lawn chair, a good friend or two, and enjoy the company, the music, the wine, and the beauty of the vineyard.

843/399-WINE (9463)        www.LaBelleAmie.com

SPONSORED BY: Anderson Bros. Bank, and EASY Radio 105.9FM

VINEYARD LOCATION: Hwy 90 & St. Joseph Road (just west of the NMB Middle School.)
GPS ADDRESS: 1120 St. Joseph Road, Little River, SC

REGULAR SHOP HOURS: Monday – Saturday 10am-6pm.
 

The 11th Annual Brunswick Island’s Home & Garden Show will be held April 20-21 at Sea Trail Convention Center in Sunset Beach, NC. 

Last years attendance for the two day event was over 1,000 people. 
The Brunswick Island's Home and Garden Show displays products and services for the home and garden including landscaping, gardening, pool and spas, windows, outdoor grills, home décor, utilities, real estate and financial services, and resources for home construction or improvement. 

 Please join us for this fun and informative event and stay at the Sunset Inn on the island of Sunset Beach, NC.  Five minutes from Ocean Isle Beach, NC and only 20 minutes from North Myrtle Beach, SC. 

9 North Shore Drive East

Sunset Beach, NC 28468

www.thesunsetinn.net

1-888-575-1001

Here at The Sunset Inn, our staff totally understands the excited feelings our guests experience when they cross over the new bridge onto the island of Sunset Beach, NC. It makes you feel like a kid again with your toes in the sand, warm sun on shoulders and ocean breezes lifting away your cares. Ahhh Paradise!

When you are ready for a little adventure, we have some recommendations. If you desiring to see Bird Island from the water, we think you will enjoy a kayaking trip. Singles, couples & families have told us they love the chance to kayak while at Sunset Beach. This opportunity will give you adventure & fun while sight seeing, too. Our guests have enjoyed summertidetours.com/ with scheduled trips to Bird Island, Tubbs Inlet and even Kayak Yoga tours. Let us help you reserve a spot on a scheduled tour or schedule a private kayak tour today!

A favorite past-time for many of us is listening to live music. Why not do this for FREE at Sunset Beach this summer? There's a Sunset Beach Concert Series at Village Park (right near Ingram Planetarium) every Wednesday night at 6:30pm. We've included a photo with the line-up for you to plan your trip & hear your favorite coastal band! I'm sure you will see one of us there singing along with you.

Even if you choose to just relax & enjoy one of our many beautiful porches at The Sunset Inn, sit on the beach until the sun goes down, or shop until you drop, we always look forward to having you as a guest at The Sunset Inn.

The Brunswick Island’s Home and Garden Show displays products and services for the home and garden including landscaping, gardening, pool and spas, windows, outdoor grills, home décor, utilities, real estate and financial services, and resources for home construction or improvement. 

West Brunswick High School is located in Shallotte, NC. approx. 5 miles from Ocean Isle Beach and ten miles from Sunset Beach. 

Fees and Admission:  $5.00 at the door, $3.00 for tickets purchased in advance. 

http://www.brunswickcountychamber.org/HG-home-and-garden-show.cfm

Located at West Brunswick High school on March 26th and 27th, 10:00 am until 3:00 pm - this year's Home and Garden Show will feature an eco-friendly green section, entertainment, a kid's learning area, food, classes and more! 

The new Ocean Isle Beach Park is located at 6483 Old Georgetown Rd. and features 8 tennis courts, an amphitheater, two playgrounds, a restroom facility, and a multipurpose field that is used for football, soccer, and much more.  

 They will also rent the amphitheater to citizens interested in hosting their next event.  The amphitheater is designed to seat 300, but there is plenty of space in and around the theater for lawn chairs and blankets.  If you are interested in renting this space or would like to check the availability please call 910-253-2670.  

We've posted a link to the park below. 

http://www.brunswickcountync.gov/portals/0/parksandrec/ocean%20ilse%20beach%20park.pdf