About Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is North Carolina's southernmost beach town, known for its wide, quiet beaches and the famous Kindred Spirit mailbox on Bird Island. The town includes a small island and a larger mainland area with golf communities and new neighborhoods.
The Ingram Planetarium and nearby golf courses add to its appeal, and Myrtle Beach is about 40 minutes away.
Why People Love Sunset Beach
Kindred Spirit mailbox
A famous mailbox on Bird Island where visitors leave notes.
Ingram Planetarium
A planetarium and science center.
Golf
Many golf communities on the mainland.
Quiet beaches
Wide, uncrowded beaches.
Homes & Real Estate in Sunset Beach
Island homes are mostly beach houses, while the mainland offers golf course homes and new construction neighborhoods.
Prices vary widely between the island and mainland.
Golf & New Construction Near Sunset Beach
Neighborhoods near Sunset Beach worth a look, from golf course communities to new homes from local and national builders.
Golf Course Communities
Sea Trail Plantation
Builders selling nowMaster-planned golf and beach community on the mainland side of Sunset Beach, minutes from the island. New construction homes, villas, condos and buildable lots alongside established neighborhoods.
Three 18-hole championship courses: Rees Jones, Dan Maples and Willard Byrd
- Three golf courses
- Clubhouse & dining
- Pools
- Minutes to Sunset Beach
- Condos, villas & single-family
Ocean Ridge Plantation
Custom homes & lotsGated community off US 17 built around the "Big Cats" golf courses, with a private oceanfront beach club for residents on Sunset Beach.
The Big Cats: Tiger's Eye, Leopard's Chase, Lion's Paw and Panther's Run (four 18-hole courses)
- Gated entrance
- Private oceanfront beach club
- Two community centers
- Pools
- Tennis & pickleball
- Walking trails & fishing pond
Brunswick Plantation
Builders selling nowLarge gated golf community in Calabash with several neighborhoods and active new construction, a short drive to Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle and North Myrtle Beach.
27-hole championship golf course
Builders: Lennar, D.R. Horton (Rich Square)
- Gated with 24-hour security
- 11,000 sq. ft. clubhouse
- Multiple pools
- Tennis courts
- On-site restaurant
Crow Creek
Builders selling nowGolf community anchored by the Crow Creek course, with new single-family homes and condos near Calabash and Sunset Beach.
Crow Creek Golf Club
- Golf course
- Community pool
- Single-family homes & condos
Thistle Golf Club
Custom homes & lotsCustom homes and homesites within the private Thistle Golf Club, a well-regarded course near the South Carolina line.
Thistle Golf Club (private)
- Private golf club
- Custom home sites
Carolina Shores
Mostly resaleEstablished town built around an 18-hole golf course and clubhouse, with single-family homes, patio homes and villas at approachable prices.
18-hole golf course & clubhouse
- Golf
- Patio homes & villas
- Close to Calabash dining
New Home Communities
Coastal Club of the Carolinas
Builders selling nowChesapeake Homes community with a resort-style amenity package and a design gallery for personalizing homes.
Builders: Chesapeake Homes
- Resort-style pool
- Pickleball
- Fitness center
- Dog park & trails
- Fire pits & community garden
Hunters Trace
Builders selling nowLennar single-family community in Calabash, now selling its final phase.
Builders: Lennar
- Single-family homes
- Final phase selling
Calabash Palms
Builders selling nowNew townhomes from Dream Finders Homes, a lower-maintenance option near Calabash and Sunset Beach.
Builders: Dream Finders Homes
- Townhomes
- Low-maintenance living
Updated October 2026. Builders, phases, amenities and availability change often. Contact us for current pricing and inventory, and bring your own agent to your first builder visit.
Before You Buy in Sunset Beach
Flood insurance
Island homes need flood and wind coverage.
HOA rules
Many mainland neighborhoods have HOAs.
Sunset Beach: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Kindred Spirit mailbox?
It is on Bird Island, a nature preserve at the west end of Sunset Beach.
Is Sunset Beach good for retirees?
Yes. Many retirees enjoy its golf communities and quiet beaches.
How far is Sunset Beach from Myrtle Beach?
About 40 minutes.