Ice cream is a beloved dessert here in Brunswick County. It’s timeless, and no matter your age, you can enjoy this sweet treat any time of year. Whether it is savored in a cup or a cone, people cling to that cold scoop– especially on a hot summer day. Since the season is approaching and all of the seasonal shops are opening back up, here are my 10 favorite ice cream shops in the Brunswick beaches.
- Beach Life Sweets (Ocean Isle Beach)
At number ten, we have Beach Life Sweets. It’s an ice cream shop located just before the Ocean Isle bridge that serves only Hershey ice cream, slushies, candy and milkshakes. It attracts many tourists, but its limited variety of ice cream drops it to number ten.
- Scoops at OIB pier
Scoops is a teen favorite. It’s located inside the pier just next to the arcade. It’s perfect for those beach days when you need a treat to cool you down because of its access directly to and from the sand.
“Personally, I don’t really like this shop because the gummy bears aren’t the best.” said sophomore Layla Thomas. “The gummy bears are Haribo, and they get hard in my ice cream.”
- The Ice Cream Shoppe (Ocean Isle Beach)
This shop is one that has been around for 38 years– it’s definitely a classic. They have quality homemade cones, and though their flavors are also limited, they still get plenty of business.
- Katie’s Homemade Ice Cream
Katie’s Homemade Ice Cream is essential to the Heritage Fresh Market. Katie’s creations are homemade and use all natural ingredients. Their best flavor is definitely butter pecan, and it’s amazing in a milkshake.
- OIB Creamery (Ocean Isle)
This shop is also a tourist favorite. I personally think they have the best cookies and cream ice cream in the county. Employees are always welcoming me with a smile and the atmosphere is cheery. It’s also very spacious inside and lively at night.
- Saltwater Shanty (Holden Beach)
At number five, we have the Saltwater Shanty. Unlike some other places, the Shanty offers a variety of homemade ice cream flavors. However, it’s the outside seating that puts it so high on the list; it’s a beautiful view accompanied with music. They also sell household gifts, books, souvenirs, garden accessories and more.
- Sunset Slush (Holden, Sunset, Ocean Isle)
Sunset Slush is an Italian ice business known for its smooth and refreshing taste and texture. Stations can be seen at football games, on the beach with a cart, and more. Their tendency to appear at community events and gatherings builds a strong reputation. They also have many flavors that can be combined together. Some locations even offer Dippin’ Dots and ice cream.
- Moo Town (Sunset Beach)
At MooTown, there are 32 Blue Bell flavors and 8 Hershey’s flavors, 6 of which are sugar or dairy free. They offer milkshakes, sundaes, banana splits, and more. The scoops offered are a big size, and the prices are great as well. This extreme diversity makes them stand out from the rest. The sugary aroma that greets you as you open the door is also a plus.
- Calabash Creamery
At number two, we have award-winning homemade ice cream. Not only does this creamery offer ice cream, but they also offer sorbet, ice cream cakes, pies, and soft serve. They also sell pints of ice cream to take home and enjoy. It’s a staple in the community and for tourists, and the popularity of this place is well deserved. .
1.Beaches N Cream (Holden Beach)
At number one, the best and my personal favorite, is Beaches N Cream. The best flavor is definitely rocky road. They use fresh local ingredients, and treat each customer with a smile. It’s the best place to head with your friends after a night out at Holden Beach.
