Frequently Asked Questions
At Sunset Properties, we want you to be well-informed before booking your vacation rental or before embarking on an unforgettable getaway. Sunset Beach, NC vacation planning just got easier, thanks to our informative Frequently Asked Questions Page. Keep reading for vacation rental FAQs and local insights.
About Our Vacation Rentals
Is there any chance we can get in earlier than the 4:00 pm check-in time?
We must allow our housekeeping and maintenance staff enough time to prepare for your arrival after the departure of the previous guest who stayed in the rental home. This may take up most of the available hours between that day’s departure and arrival times. However, during the summer season, if we have your mobile phone number on file and finish the home substantially ahead of our goal, we will send an automated text to let you know of the home's earlier availability.
Do I have to pay to park at my vacation rental?
No. Parking is included for a limited number of vehicles at your rental. Please check the individual vacation rental listing or give us a call to discuss your parking needs.
What should I do if I have a maintenance issue upon arrival?
Vacation rental homes experience heavy traffic during the season. However, we work hard to ensure a stress-free stay with no issues. If you find any maintenance or housekeeping concerns upon arrival, please let us know as soon as possible. You will find a maintenance form in your welcome packet. Fill it out and return it to our island office, and we’ll follow up from there.If there is an emergency, please call our full-service maintenance department at 910-575-8655. If this is a true emergency, please call our after-hours emergency line at 910-579-2596.
Common Maintenance Issues:
- Refrigerators: When changing the settings on your refrigerator and stocking groceries, please keep in mind that refrigerators take some time to adjust. It could take up to 24 hours to adequately cool your food and beverages. Settings should be in the middle of the range for both the refrigerator and freezer sections. Don't expect the appliances to cool immediately, particularly on days that include multiple doors opening due to departure/cleaning/arrival.
- Air conditioning: Units will typically only cool 15-degrees difference from the outdoor temperature. Do not dramatically change the settings on the thermostat, as this will cause the air conditioner to freeze up and not work.
- Internet service: Service on the island is occasionally interrupted. If you arrive at your vacation rental and find that the internet is not working, locate the modem and router, unplug them for 2 minutes, then plug them back in. After giving them a few more minutes to reboot, please try to connect. We find that this solves the majority of internet issues on the island. Your Wi-Fi code (if required) is printed on the front of the welcome packet.
What items should I pack for my vacation?
Vacation rental homes operate differently than your typical hotel or resort, so you'll need to bring some necessities with you. We suggest bringing linens and towels (if they are not provided as part of the rental or you have not rented them through us), paper towels, toilet tissue, kitchen trash bags, dish detergent, bar soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, hair dryer, food wrap, seasonings, board games, books, sun screen, tanning lotion, medicine, boogie boards, beach chairs, and portable grill (if your rental doesn’t advertise a grill).
What amenities come standard in your vacation rentals?
Unless otherwise noted in an individual home's description, all our rental cottages come equipped with central heat & air, outdoor shower, dishwasher, washer, dryer, microwave, drip coffee maker, bedspreads, mattress pads, pillows, and typical cookware and dinnerware for simple cooking. Each home is privately owned and reflects its owner’s individual tastes. We cannot make changes to furnishings or equipment, and the same are subject to change without notice or compensation. Please do not rearrange the furniture in the house during your stay. If there is a specific amenity you are interested in for your vacation, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
What additional amenities are offered in your selection of vacation rentals?
Select vacation rental properties offer premium amenities, such as private pools, hot tubs, elevators, docks, golf carts, and more.
Do any of your rental homes provide linens?
Yes. We have a fantastic inventory of “linen-ready” homes. These homes have bath towels, kitchen towels, and bathmats that will be provided at no charge. Additionally, the beds will be made with linen upon arrival.
Do you offer pet-friendly accommodations?
Absolutely! We have an impressive selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals. Most of these homes allow up to two well-behaved dogs per rental. There is an additional fee if you plan to bring your dog(s). If you are planning to bring your fur baby on vacation, be sure to review our pet policy.
Should I book my vacation rental directly with Sunset Properties?
Yes. When you book directly with us, we are able to offer you the best rates, local expertise, and A+ customer service.
What is a tentative reservation, and how does it work?
Tentative reservations are taken up to a year in advance and are therefore subject to a variety of availability factors. This hold will allow you to receive your chosen week(s) should the unit be available for rent for your requested time. If we become aware that the unit will not be available, we will notify you as soon as possible.
This year's vacationers are given the first opportunity to re-rent their cottage for the corresponding week next year while they are here. They must re-book for the following year by the close of business on Wednesday of their vacation week (first Wednesday for multiple weeks of stays). We'll open reservations to the public on the following day (Thursday).
The Tentative Reservation fee of $75 is required to take your selected week in the rental unit off the rental market and is non-transferable, non-refundable, and does not apply to your rent.
YOUR PAYMENT OF MONEY IS EVIDENCE OF YOUR AGREEMENT TO OUR TENTATIVE RESERVATION POLICY ABOVE. TO COMPLETE YOUR TENTATIVE RESERVATION REQUEST, CLICK ON YOUR DESIRED PROPERTY, THEN CLICK ON THE "BOOK NOW" BUTTON. THIS WILL DIRECT YOU THROUGH THE QUICK STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS.
What is my week next year?
About Sunset Beach
Is there paid beach parking on Sunset Beach?
Yes. The Town of Sunset Beach has implemented a Pay-to-Park program on the Island of Sunset Beach from April 1st through October 31st. Parking is $5 for up to 3 hours or $20/day, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in all designated parking spaces. It is free to park before or after those hours. Payments are made through an online app and are recorded by the license plate number.
Are golf carts allowed on Sunset Beach?
Yes. Golf carts are a great way to cruise around Sunset Beach during your vacation. There are numerous golf cart rental companies to choose from. Please be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws and golf cart ordinances.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Yes. Dogs are permitted on our beaches. However, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, dogs are not allowed on the beach from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Pet owners must remove all pet waste and deposit it in trash receptacles. For more details, visit the Town of Sunset Beach website.
I'm staying at a home with a boat dock, and I'm bringing my boat. Where can I put it in the water?
There are public boat ramps on each island, available free of charge to the public.
Ocean Isle Beach's ramp is a larger facility and is located next to the Ocean Isle Fishing Center at the island-side base of the OIB bridge.
Sunset Beach's ramp is at the end of Sunset Blvd North on the mainland. To reach it, take your first right off the traffic circle located at the base of the bridge on the mainland. Follow that road, going straight across at the stop sign, past Dave's Outpost. The ramp is located across from The Boat Landing.
Do vacationers need a fishing license to enjoy the area's top fishing spots?
Anyone fishing off the coast of NC who is 16 years of age or older must have a valid NC Coastal Fishing License. This includes those people fishing from the beach and floating docks on the canal, bay, or marsh. If you plan to fish off the public fishing pier at Sunset Beach, they have a commercial license that covers each fisherman. To purchase your license in advance or for more details, visit the NC Wildlife Commission website.
Are fireworks allowed on the beach?
No! Our community has become particularly sensitive to fireworks. There have been several fires in and around our town over the last few years, caused by carelessness. No fireworks, of any kind, are allowed anywhere on our island. Renters found with fireworks will immediately lose their occupancy (without warning) due to safety concerns and will be subject to state prosecution. Do expect both the local police and residents to be monitoring the use of fireworks. For a complete list of all Beach Safety rules and regulations, visit our informational page.
What family-friendly activities are there to do in town?
We are located close to many great area restaurants and attractions. The bright lights and attractions of Myrtle Beach and Wilmington are less than an hour's drive from our island. If that's not for you, our beach is great for a traditional family vacation—perfect for relaxing, beach days, local attractions, reading books, family beach games, or board games after the sun goes down.
You may want to visit the coastal displays at the Museum of Coastal Carolina on Ocean Isle Beach (910-579-1016), or the updated digital shows at Ingram Planetarium in Sunset Beach (910-575-0033).
When is the best time of year to visit Sunset Beach?
At Sunset Properties, we know that every beach vacation looks a little different. Some families plan their getaway around spring break to enjoy lower shoulder-season rates in Sunset Beach, while others return year after year for a summer vacation with multiple generations. Fall draws golfers and anglers, while winter appeals to homeschool families and couples seeking peaceful beaches, fantastic shelling, and budget-friendly stays without the crowds. The best time of year to visit Sunset Beach is up to you and your vacation needs.
What do we do if it rains during our vacation?
There are plenty of area activities that are perfect for rainy days or when you need a break from the sun. From spa days to bowling, we have you covered.
Do you have any additional questions? Send us an email at reservations@sunsetproperties.travel or call our staff at 866-320-1344. Our team is standing by to assist you with planning the vacation of your dreams.