The castaway is a Common Loon, lost on his migration path from the north. He had washed up on shore here at Ocean Isle Beach due to exhaustion from near starvation. Front desk staff at the Ocean Isle Inn were alerted and quick to respond to the situation. Though the immediate contact for wild bird rescue was unavailable at the time, other advocates for animal welfare were at liberty. Janie Withers and Ellen Rothenberg (president and vice-president of Paws-Ability, a non-profit animal rescue organization of Brunswick County) were ready and able to assist in the effort. They were on the scene in minutes with a container for the lost Loon. The young adult relaxed comfortably in the large plastic tub at the Inn until transport could be arranged to the Seabiscuit Wildlife Shelter in nearby Oak Island.

Seabiscuit Wildlife Shelter founder Mary Ellen Rogers was able to identify the individual as a Common Loon out of Canada. Turns out the Loon is not so “common” after all; evasive of the endangered species list at the moment but of “special concern”. If not regarded with interest, this species could be lost in the next 20 years.

Once at the Shelter, the Loon was placed in a fish-stocked basin pond where he immediately started making up for lost food! He was extremely malnourished (he’d lost half his body weight) and would have met a certain death. These birds live their entire lives in the water, using their feet to paddle constantly. It had looked like the Loon might have had a broken leg when he was lying on the beach but this is just the given appearance on land. He is receiving antibiotics at this time for a slight respiratory issue but recuperating, according to an update from Mary Ellen Rogers. He has a Common Loon companion as well that was already in residence at the shelter. If all goes well, the wayward duo should be released during the summer.

Researching this bird, it was amazing to me how they change in appearance coming into breeding condition. Got to look good for the Lady Birds!

If anyone would like to make a donation to support the Loon rehabilitation or contribute otherwise, please contact Paws-Ability or the Seabiscuit Wildilfe Shelter by clicking on the featured links.

I am glad I was personally able to take part in this Deliverance!

Yeah Team!!!

As many of you know, last year we hosted our Poolside Party once a week with DJ Hurricane playing music and hosting some fun games for the entire family and we’re ready to bring him back!

On Friday April 6^th DJ Hurricane will be kicking off the Easter Weekend from 6-9pm by our oceanfront pool. Music, games and fun. But to make it even better we’re gonna have food too! Guests will have the option of purchasing food tickets for All You Can Eat dining during the party.

The menu will feature Cajun Jambalaya, as well as BBQ Chicken, Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Chicken fingers, homemade Mac & Cheese, Cole Slaw, along with Sweet Tea (a Southern staple) and bottled water.

Adult food tickets are $13.95

Children ages 6-12 are $8.95

Under age 6 eat free (with paying adult)

Food tickets are only required should you wish to dine during the fun.  Otherwise, come on out to the pool and enjoy the music and games with us.

We will also be hosting another Pool Party on May 25^th to kick off the Memorial Day weekend. Then beginning June 15^th we will be having Pool Parties TWICE a week – every Tuesday and Friday during the summer.

For more information feel free to pick up the phone and call us   1-800-352-5988

** dates & times subject to change due to weather or other events.

Come and join your friends as they welcome the return of spring at the Southport Spring Festival on Friday, April 6^th from 10 to 5 and Saturday,  April 7^th from 10 to 4 in Franklin Square Park in downtown Southport, NC.

The North Carolina Azalea Festival is Wilmington’s annual community celebration and the largest festival of its kind in the state. Founded in 1948, the Azalea Festival has emerged as Wilmington’s premier event.  The Southeast Tourism Society selected the North Carolina Azalea Festival as one of its Top 20 Events, for the second year in a row.

As always, the Ocean Isle Inn has a variety of special rate packages to meet  your needs. Click on our specials page here to see whats available and make your plans to attend one of these festivals along the coast. Come celebrate with us!

A floral theme at a romantic Ocean Isle Beach NC wedding is quite fitting but so is a seashore or ocean theme. In the springtime, flowers are fresh and more are available than at any other time of year. In this coastal area of the country shells of many types are available for decorations and with all the specialty beach shops around you won’t have far to travel to find the little extras that will make the decorations special. Choose one color for your theme or many colors that blend well together. It’s your day so have it any way that feels good to you!

Having a theme for your Ocean Isle Beach NC wedding day makes the day more memorable and fun. Take plenty of time beforehand to think of themes that you and your fiancé can relate to. Spring themed invitations are readily available but it’s not out of realm of possibility these days to make your own wedding invitations. Nobody says you have to hire a wedding planner. If you don’t have a large budget, your friends and close family can help make your special day eventful and would be honored to be asked to help.

Plan ahead and get a jump-start!

Pounce on the deals being offered for your great escape.

Summer is just a skip away. Now is the time to have the beach to yourself!

No song & dance, just a perfectly good opportunity to bound to the beach!

Since this is a Leap Year, hop on the opportunity to visit us at the Ocean Isle Inn

Click here for a clip of nostalgia from Michigan J. Frog

We presently have a Tides of March Special for $159 including tax. Enjoy two nights in an oceanfront room with two queen sized beds and have lunch for two at Ocean Isle’s favorite local eatery, Sharky’s Waterfront Restaurant. Plus we even throw in a couple of Ocean Isle Inn t-shirts. Lunch at Sharky’s offers your choice of sandwich or salad and beverage. Off is valid Sundays through Thursdays during the month of March 2012. This offer canot be combined with other discounts.

We have a Create Your Rate deal available all year long where you bid on the rate you want to pay to stay at our inn. Visit our website and click on “contact” to send your offer to us. We’ll get back in touch with you.

If you hurry you can still get in on our 2 for 2 Special for $99 at our Ocean Isle Beach resorts. Enjoy two nights at the Ocean Isle Inn for $99 plus tax. Take advantage of this offer to just get away and relax at the beach. This special is not valid with other discounts, holidays, special events or groups and is based on availability. Offer valid any day of the week. Valid for bookings from through February 29, 2012. Not valid for reservations previously booked. Must call the hotel directly to book special. 1-800-352-5988.

With the New Year, we’d like to introduce an additional player to our lineup of online opportunities.

For some time now, the Ocean Isle Inn has featured the “Create the Rate” program. A simple, short form is filled out from our website then passed directly to our Reservations team. It gives you the chance to make a reasonable bid on a room of choice, Oceanfront or Soundview. Bids are either accepted or a counter offer is rallied.

Whether a family vacation, a getaway for 2 or just a random visit to the Ocean Isle Inn, memories are always created. Our Oceanfront rooms include private balconies that overlook the Garden Gazebo area, outdoor pool, the beach and of course the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean! If you’ve ever been a guest at the Ocean Isle Inn, you’ll agree it is the Room With a View! Now is the time to recruit that memory and put it to the test!

Introducing, “A Room With a View”! Pictures will be posted featuring a random snapshot from any one of our oceanfront balconies. The goal is to guess which room that view is from. Even if you have never stayed at the Ocean Isle Inn before, you are invited to play! This will be another ongoing online Special found on our website.

Enjoy the panoramic video from a balcony

If the guess is correct, the winner will receive a choice of dinner for 2 at Sharky’s Waterfront Restaurant here on the island or a $50 Visa Gift Card.

Prizes awarded upon check-in the next time you stay at the Ocean Isle Inn.

So stay tuned for THOSE VIEWS to begin their debuts….

>>Two guesses per household per picture, winners can participate every thirty days!

GOOD LUCK!

At long last, our troops will begin returning to the States in March of 2012. Families looking for a getaway to celebrate their reunions will be happy to find Ocean Isle Beach! Unlike the hectic setting of Myrtle Beach, Ocean Isle is the beach to relax and regroup.

Honoring such monumental memories, we are featuring a variety of Military Specials. We support our troops on a daily basis, offering 15% discounts for active military.

Now, the Ocean Isle Inn Specials Page introduces our newest addition:

The Red, White and Blue Packages.

The Red Package includes: Two nights in oceanfront accommodations and a Wine Gift Basket from Silver Coast Winery $149

**************

The White Package includes: Three nights in oceanfront accommodations, a Wine Gift Basket from Silver Coast Winery and Dinner for Two at Sharky’s Waterfront Restaurant $269

**************

The Blue Package includes: Four nights in oceanfront accommodations and a Wine Gift Basket from Silver Coast Winery $239

Packages are available any day of the week through February 29, 2012

AND

Sunday through Thursdays March through April 30, 2012

Besides our packages, we also offer Military Weddings……..

……..and Reunions!

“Realizing the difference between what we ‘have’ and the meaning of true worth, can sometimes be challenging. When we stop and think how so many have paid the ultimate price, our lives become a gift again.”

Melanie S.

One such quest would be a visit to the newly developed Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade of Myrtle Beach. Spanning a distance of 1.2 miles from 14^th Avenue to the 2^nd Avenue Pier, you’ll find quirky gift shops and beach style restaurants along its trek. The most unique attraction at the boardwalk is the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel. A rather imposing structure on the Grand Strand, it may appear like a common ferris wheel from a distance but is no comparison by any margin! Standing over 200 feet above sea level, it is the first observation wheel of its kind in the United States.

SkyWheel consists of 42 specially made Swiss gondolas with bench style seating that comfortably accommodates up to 6 people. Each vessel is fully enclosed and climate-controlled. There is one VIP gondola that features a glass floor and leather bucket seats.

An inspired collaboration with Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, LandShark Bar & Grill awaits you at the base of the SkyWheel to satisfy your hunger or quench your thirst.

“We are very excited about the new joint venture with LandShark Bar & Grill and LandShark Surfshack we have in Myrtle Beach,” said David Busker, CEO of Koch Development, developer of SkyWheel Myrtle Beach. “LandShark Bar & Grill is the perfect dining complement to the SkyWheel experience and we look forward to bringing this concept to the oceanfront boardwalk in Myrtle Beach.”

The breathtaking panoramic view of the Atlantic skyline will be a vista you will want to capture. The gondolas employ UV protective, non-reflective tinted glass that will enhance any photo or video opportunity.

At twilight, SkyWheel “flyers” will be treated to an amazing computer generated LED lightshow that encompasses over a million colored lights!

Click here to see a video of the light show in action!

Hours of operation are Sunday – Thursday 12 noon till 7pm

Friday & Saturday 12 noon till 9pm

The ride lasts approximately 12 minutes with 3 rotations of the wheel.

An elite and exciting way to soar over the beach as if you had wings!

Click here for a “free ride”, Happy SkyWheeling!!!

(click on all hyperlinks to see a live webcam and SkyWheel website)

]]> http://www.oceanisleinn.com/blog/ocean-isle-beach-activities/sky-wheel-arial-atlantic-attraction/feed 1 http://www.oceanisleinn.com/blog/ocean-isle-beach-activities/ingram-planetarium-venue-of-venture http://www.oceanisleinn.com/blog/ocean-isle-beach-activities/ingram-planetarium-venue-of-venture#comments Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:22:41 +0000 Melanie http://www.oceanisleinn.com/blog/?p=404 Continue reading →]]> Life is a Beach and not every day is always going to be sunny here on the coast. A stormy day on our vacation may affect how we spend our time but can also be an opportunity for something different and out of the box. Often we relent to frequent the local movie theater for the latest Hollywood blockbuster. Or maybe even the local bowling alley for a game or two. These options are available but not our only alternatives.

In neighboring Sunset Beach just 4 miles south of Ocean Isle, the Ingram Planetarium offers interesting, educational and fascinating entertainment for all ages. Learn about astronomy and planets in the Sky Dome HD Theater. Be able to locate constellations overhead as you take your evening walk on the beach! Space exploration, science and star shows are explained by museum volunteers as a dark starry night is replicated around you. So dark in fact, that tardy visitors will be turned away as it is perilous to enter once the program has begun.

Sky Theater Shows

>Seven Wonders – presents miraculous spectacles in our world.

>Two Pieces of Glass – targets the passion of telescopes.

>Oasis in Space and Astronaut – expands your horizons and transports you into a breathtaking lunar experience.

Amazing Laser Music Shows featuring songs from the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and U2 feed your senses with imagery and sound you will not soon forget! Some age restrictions apply.

Before and after the shows, check out The Paul Dennis Science Hall with interactive family activities. There is also a gift shop with souveniers from your outing.

Admission prices are affordable: $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 ages 3-4, ages 2 and under free. Discounts for second show stay-overs. Planetarium members, free admission.

On your next vacation, include a little enlightenment at the

Ingram Planetarium, even if it’s not a rainy day!

For years the Museum of the Coastal Carolinas and the Ingram Planetarium have joined forces as The Ocean Isle Museum Foundation, Inc. They continually engage people’s interests and awareness of the sea turtles by putting together interactive afternoon programs. Providing and encouraging education, participation and mindfulness, our turtles and their offspring will fare the obstacles at hand with a much brighter outlook.

The spring of 2011 brought a fresh focus to our armored mariners of the deep. A new non-profit affiliate, The Ocean Isle Beach Sea Turtle Protection Organization was created by Jim and Deb Boyce, both licensed by the state of NC Wildlife Commission. With their expertise, they offer presentations that go beyond the general introduction to these gentle giants.

Mission statement for the innovative organization: “The Ocean Isle Beach Sea Turtle Protection Organization will provide, through appropriate management activities and education, a safe and protected environment for all sea turtles that frequent the island of Ocean Isle Beach.”

Since the turtles are arriving at a tourist attractive beach, many people are curious at the spectacle of it all and disregard some common-sense stipulations. From visitors to locals alike we all need to follow guidelines to ensure turtle tenacity.

When navigating toward shore to dig nests and lay their eggs, females will use moonlight to get to their destination. Artificial lighting can hinder the process and distract the turtles. Babies often hatch at night and will follow moonlight toward the ocean. Outside lighting on houses or flashlights on the beach are discouraged during the nesting period as they will misguide the turtles.

Nesting sites are taped-off on the beach and though ardently watched by volunteers, should not be disturbed under any circumstances.

Holes dug in the sand during beach activities can also prove to be a hindrance for the turtles.

Litter of any type can confuse a hungry turtle after the long journey. Please keep discarded items off the beach!

The Ocean Isle Inn is contributing to the benefit of the turtles as well by featuring Brame Preservation paper products with their line-up of amenities.

Just a little consideration for these awesome animals will assure their place in our world’s cycle of wildlife.

Featuring a sublime beach setting for this magical occasion, the Ocean Isle Inn has put together a Valentine’s special package just for the two of you.

Available February 10–14, 2012

Upon check in, a red rose. For the both of you, a wine basket to share, prepared by our local award winning Silver Coast Winery. Two nights in Oceanfront accommodations provide a breathtaking view of the Atlantic ocean from your own private balcony.

The twist is, you have a choice of dinner plans! Are you the type to dine out to celebrate your romantic night or prefer to stay in for dinner and keep the evening between just the two of you?

Dinner for 2 is a given for any Valentine’s Day Special but we are offering the choice of dining at a favorite local eatery OR room service to your abode from a select menu. Sound like a refreshing yet relaxing way to enjoy one other? Variety is a spice of life and the backdrop of our peaceful beach with a gorgeous sunset promises a memorable moment.

Sunrise on the strand is stunning as well and can be enjoyed during a romantic stroll on the beach before our complimentary breakfast.

Why wait? Visit our Specials website link or call us toll free at 800-352-5988 and surprise your heart of hearts!

While many folks come to Ocean Isle Beach to soak up the sun and frolic in the warm waters of the Atlantic, many others come to the area to explore the surrounding ecological features.  One such place, and a personal favorite of mine, is the Green Swamp.

Located a short 20 minutes drive from Ocean Isle Beach is the Green Swamp Preserve. The preserve encompasses over 17,000 acres and is home to some of the country’s finest examples of longleaf pine savannas. The open savannas have a diverse herb layer with many orchids and insectivorous plants.

Brunswick County itself has the largest number of rare species of any of North Carolina’s 100 counties. A number of plants and animals are found here and nowhere else.

The Green Swamp contains 18 species of orchids and at least 14 different species of insectivorous plants, including:

• extensive populations of Venus flytrap
• sundew
• four species of pitcher plant
• 18 species of orchids

On your next visit to the area, why not pack your hiking boots and binoculars and spend an afternoon exploring this wonder of Brunswick county? There are hiking trails throughout the swamp and vast savannas, which provide ample space for bird-watching or photographing rare plants and wildflowers.

Not many of us think about it until we have an experience of our own to recall. It may be an injured seagull on the beach or a pelican at the pier seen with a tangle of fishing line wrapped around its neck. Who do you call? Personally, you know you aren’t equipped to provide for this wild creature in its hour of need by any means!

Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter of nearby Oak Island crusades for those unfortunate wild birds that may become injured or orphaned in our region of the Coastal Carolinas. Because of the lush environment, birds abound here. Unfortunately, it is a constant fact that they are subject to peril. From storks, seagulls, kingfishers, pelicans, egrets, herons, sandpipers, ducks and loons, the list is endless! Raptors such as owls, hawks, kestrels, osprey and even bald eagles make this their home. Migratory paths span the east coast and include a large variety of birds from Canada geese to songbirds. Needless to say, with all this flight in motion there are bound to be incidents. Clashes with civilization and even the weather can lead to certain catastrophe.

Mary Ellen Rogers, the founder and operator of the shelter, moved to North Carolina in 2003. It soon became apparent to her that there were no local sources of rehabilitation or veterinary assistance for the shorebirds. Since her arrival on the scene, she has changed the lives of countless birds in jeopardy. Contributors and volunteers who share Mary Ellen’s concerns are making a huge difference for our NC wildlife.

The shelter was started in 2007. Mary Ellen has devoted heart and soul to this avian recovery venture. Designating a large portion of her island cottage named “Sea Biscuit”, she has provided urgent care for the hapless. With ongoing improvements to the cause, temporary habitats are created to aid in various stages of the rehabilitation process for all different types of birds. Treacherous encounters include birds that have been caught in nets, shark bitten, shot at, impaled with fishhooks and even frostbitten. Thanks to a foundation like Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter in the wings, there is now hope on the horizon.

For more information how anyone with interest in our NC wildlife can help, click here.

We’ve all heard the term “layer” your clothing to keep warm. Ah, but what should those layers CONSIST OF?

>Coverage next to the skin? Silk or treated polyester is best. These choices will hold heat and not absorb moisture that can become trapped against the body. Cotton should be avoided.

>Next, think long sleeves and long bottoms, long socks of the thermal type that cover the calf and lined gloves. Remember, cotton is not an insulator! Resort to polyester. Blends will be inclusive of cotton, choose accordingly.

>The torso can be kept warmer yet with a short-sleeved crew neck shirt of poly, wool or thermal material.

>A sweater, quilted vest or fleeced jacket can finish the core coverage.

>Now that the upper part of the body has been layered, don’t stop there. Jeans are cotton! Try thermal “long-johns” or silk alternative, underneath.

>The beach can also be a blustery place. Both a scarf for the neck and a hat that hugs the head to hold in warmth are good ideas.

>Footware that is lined and covers the ankles will afford a perfect launch for that jaunt on the strand.

>Layer wisely to suit your own needs. Avoid getting too warm as to make yourself sweat.

>A greaseless lotion all over the body before getting dressed will serve as an insulator.

>Eat before your excursion. The body puts out more heat when given fuel.

>Lastly, any clad metals such as glasses or jewelry will act as heat conductors and rob your body heat.

Taking a little time, using common sense and putting together a simple outfit can make all the difference! Enjoy your seaside surroundings and the reasons you’ve come to this destination!

Trip the Beach Fantastic…..

-Melanie

Now that family holidays are behind us, we each gear for the New Year with personal improvement on our minds. With these possibilities — we see Another Chance!

5 (‘cause that’s my favorite number!)

**New Years Resolutions For the Positive**

 Ø   Get a good nights’ sleep. Take the time to relax and unwind, heal.

Ø   Plan for a vacation, not only a goal but something to look forward to in the future.

Ø   Surround yourself with positive, supportive people.

Ø   Get yourself up and about….jump, walk, dance, move!

Ø   Take pictures (most of us have a phone that features a camera) of things that make you smile, you may need a boost someday!

 Life can be a challenge at times. If met with an upbeat outlook, changes we never even counted on can come our way!

 Happy New Year to All!

Holidays are here and many of us will be in a hurry to see friends and family when trekking the friendly skies. If you are jetting your way across the country or just boarding for a quick flight, here is some Holiday food-for-thought. Pass these tidbits to those you think could use the extra nourishment.

>Check-in online. This will save time in line!

>Arrive for your flight early. Avoid unexpected hold-ups!

>Leave behind sharp objects…don’t bring that pocket knife you thought would be a cool Christmas gift for little Jimmy

>Remember the 3-1-1 Rule: place any liquids/gels (weighing no more than 3.4 ounces or 100 ml each) in a quart size freezer bag, one per passenger, for easy inspection…put in checked luggage if possible.

Exceptions: liquid medications, baby formula and breast milk

>Prepare Credentials, these will be asked for immediately: boarding pass and picture identification

>Attire: omit the jewelry, empty pockets, wear those slip-on shoes and sport a jacket that is easy to remove

>Keep laptops in their carrier bags. Some video cameras and DVD players will need to be removed

>Select the right line. This allows those of us more familiar with the process of boarding to get through quicker

>Handy Holiday Tip: keep presents unwrapped until you get to your destination.

The flight experience has been different for us all since the last decade but maybe these morsels of information will abet our Holiday Travel adventures.

Enjoy Life and Take Off!

Though 2012 is just around the corner, the end of 2010 ended an era when the familiar 500-foot-long single lane pontoon swing bridge of neighboring Sunset Beach was retired. Servicing traffic to and from the island since 1961, it was the last of its kind still in operation on the east coast. Every morning, at each hour between 7am to 9am, traffic would sit at a red light on either side of the waterway. The bridge would swing to the side to allow boat passage with a system of pulleys and cables. From a vantage point in a little white house that sits directly on the wooden bridge itself, the bridge operator would open the bridge at the top of each hour. Throughout the day as well, a signal from a commercial boat would command a repeat performance.With the demands of tourism, a growing population and progression in general, the old bridge became obsolete. Despite 30 years of controversy from locals that did not want to see the bridge replaced, a new 65-foot-high two lane arch bridge was completed in October 2010, the Mannon C. Gore Bridge.

The antique bridge was moved to a donated portion of land just beside her replacement. Currently decorated for the holidays at her dry dock, she frequently receives visitors from history buffs, old friends and locals alike.

You can see a video of the last day the bridge was in operation here.

As 2011 quickly comes to an end, preparations for 2012 are already underway at the Ocean Isle Inn.  Over the past several weeks our management team has worked side by side with our customer service staff to develop more exciting vacation packages for the upcoming new year.

Along with the great rates you’ve come to expect from the Ocean Isle Inn, we will also be bringing you, our valued guests, some fantastic packages with some of the most popular attractions in the area.  How about a night gambling aboard the SunCruz Casino boat or sampling some of your favorite wines from Silver Coast Winery in Ocean Isle Beach?

Keep checking out our Specials page and our Facebook page for more details as we make them available. Until then, enjoy the remainder of 2011 and have a happy holiday season and we’ll see you at the beach in 2012!



Make someone’s holiday a bit brighter by giving them an Ocean Isle Inn Gift Certificate.  Our Gift Certificates can be an ideal gift idea to help someone get away for the weekend or take an extended vacation.  It’s perfect for friends, family or business associates.  Our Gift Certificates can be purchased in any dollar amount and are redeemable year-round.  Wrap up your holidays with the perfect gift…the gift of relaxation at the Ocean Isle Inn.

Call our office today to get your certificate. 1-800-352-5988