Ocean Isle Beach is on the southern North Carolina coast, roughly equidistant from Wilmington (55 miles north) and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (30 miles south). There is no public transport to the island.
By car: The most practical option. From Wilmington, take US-17 south to NC-904 west, then NC-179 south to the causeway. From Myrtle Beach, take US-17 north into Brunswick County. The island is accessed by a single causeway.
Nearest airports: Wilmington International Airport (ILM) has limited direct routes; Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) has more connections and is closer. Both are about 45 minutes to an hour by car. Charlotte Douglas (CLT) is the major regional hub, about 3 hours away.