Wilmington NC Real Estate Blog

Nov. 25, 2014

BlueCoast Virtual Tour

Take a virtual tour of our offices here at BlueCoast.


View Larger Map

Posted in General Interest
Sept. 29, 2014

It’s MAZE CRAZE time!

Maze Craze 

About 40 miles west of Wilmington NC, in a little town called Hallsboro NC, you can find some Fall fun for the entire family.  You'll need to get off 74W/76W and take a couple of backroads to get there, but it's worth the effort.

 MAZE CRAZE  presents 13 acres of maze, rubber duck races, hayride, corn hole, pedal carts, train ride for the kids, kiddie maze and even a snack bar all hosted by the delightful Galloway family.  For the last 4 years the Galloway family has exceeded the expectations of thousands.

New this year --

         Spookley story maze
         The Fairy Tale Trail


All this fun for just $9 adults, $7 kids, 3 and under FREE!  If you're coming after dark be sure to wear bug spray and bring a flashlight!  Should you forget, they've got both at the Concession Stand.

 

If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

 

Posted in General Interest
July 3, 2014

Happy 4th of July!

American FlagFor me, nothing says “summer” quite like 4th of July celebrations.  A day spent on the beach; an evening spent watching the sky light up with beautiful colors as we celebrate our Nations Birthday.  The booms, the oohs and ahhs of the crowd, the flags waving . . .

We've got a few places to watch fireworks this weekend; Southport and Downtown Wilmington just to name two.  Be sure to check out the tips for parking in Downtown Wilmington, the last thing you want is to spend all your time trying to find a place to park instead of enjoying the celebration! 

Mayfaire Music on the Town is still on as well!

Tonight it’s funk, rock and soul by Millenia Funk’n Band!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

I hope that wherever you celebrate this weekend you remember that Independence Day is so much more than cook-outs and fireworks.  It is a celebration of the Birth of our Great Nation, a Nation founded on the blood, sweat and tears of many.  Protected by the honor of hundreds of thousands more.  As you fly your flag, remember, it's more than just a piece of cloth -- 

I am your title deed of freedom, which is yours to enjoy and hold in trust for posterity.  Ruth Apperson

 May you and yours have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day!

If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

Posted in General Interest
June 25, 2014

Wilmington NC area FREE Events June 26 ~ June 29, 2014

Promises to be another GREAT weekend here in Wilmington!

Thursday June 26

Fireworks by the Sea

Come on down to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and enjoy a FREE concert and fireworks.  This week’s concert features L Shape Lot.  Fun begins at 6:30p.

Sunset SUP Series

Blockade Runner and Beach Resorthosts a Sunset SUP Series every Thursday night thru August 28.  Different course each week and determined by conditions at 4p on race day.  They’re offering a 10 minute lesson before every race and there are kid’s races every other week.  6:30p.

Friday June 27

Music on the Town Concert

Tonight it’s classic & modern rock by Blivet!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

Downtown Sundown Concert

This week Beatles tribute band, Abbey Road Live, performs.  Wine & beer for sale; no coolers, outside beverages or dogs.  Riverfront Park Water Street at Princess. 6p ~ 10p.

Fourth Friday Gallery Night

Come enjoy an evening in Downtown Wilmington NC withFourth Friday Gallery NightIt's an after-hours celebration of art and culture. 6p ~ 9p.

 

Saturday June 28

Civil War Artillery Program

Calling all History Buffs!  Explore the use of artillery used in the defense of Fort Fisher during the attacks in December 1864 and January 1865. Costumed tours of the remaining earthworks at 10a, 11:30a, 1:30p and 3p. Author Richard Triebe will talk about his new book in the Spencer Theater located inside the Museum at 11:30a and 1:30p. Ft. Fisher State Historic Site

Carnivorous Plant Hike

Ever wondered about “plants that bite back”? Then don’t miss this one! Learn about the fascinating world of the carnivorous plants that grow at Carolina Beach State Park.  Meet at the Nature Trail Parking Lot at 10a. Hikes take place Saturday and Sunday.

Concert for Kids: Mr. Erik

You’ll have 2 chances to join traveling musician, Mr. Erik, as he performs a free 45 minute rock music concert for kids. 10a at Myrtle Grove Library and 2p at the Main Library Downtown

Sunday June 29

Boogie in the Park

This week enjoy music by BLP!  Bring your chairs or blankets to Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 5p ~ 8p.

Movie by the Lake

Bring a chair, blanket and cooler of snacks.  No worries if you forget the cooler – they’ll have popcorn, sodas, candy and cotton candy for sale.  Movies begin at dusk and this weeks’ (6/29) flick is Monsters University

For more FREE Events in Wilmington NC bookmark this page and check back frequently.  If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

Posted in General Interest
June 19, 2014

Wilmington NC area FREE Events June 19 ~ June 22, 2014

So much to do this weekend, between all the FREE concerts and the NC Blueberry Festival, it’s hard to know where to begin!

Thursday June 19

Fireworks by the Sea

Come on down to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and enjoy a FREE concert and fireworks.  This week’s concert features the Eastbound.  Fun begins at 6:30p.

Sunset SUP Series

Blockade Runner and Beach Resorthosts a Sunset SUP Series every Thursday night thru August 28.  Different course each week and determined by conditions at 4p on race day.  They’re offering a 10 minute lesson before every race and there are kid’s races every other week.  6:30p.

Shakespeare on the Green

22nd season of Shakespeare on the Green continues with Comedy of Errors.  Greenfield Lake Amphitheater  1941 Amphitheater Drive. Performances are Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8p. 

Friday June 20

Music on the Town Concert

Tonight it’s music by The Other Guys!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

Downtown Sundown Concert

This week Skynrd tribute band, Tuesday’s Gone, performs.  Wine & beer for sale; no coolers, outside beverages or dogs.  Riverfront Park Water Street at Princess. 6p ~ 10p.

11th Annual NC Blueberry Festival

Festival kicks off today, Friday, with a bbq contest, recipe contest and blueberry sales.  Festival day is Saturday and the fun is non-stop!  Check out their site for schedule. 11th Annual NC Blueberry FestivalBurgaw NC

Saturday June 21

5th Annual Stormfest

Hosted by Cape Fear Museum and sponsored by Time Warner Cable’s Connect A Million Minds initiative and Duke Energy Stormfest is a fun-filled day of all things meteorology!  Speaking from experience – this one is a blast for all ages!  10a ~ 4p.

Carnivorous Plant Hike

Ever wondered about “plants that bite back”? Then don’t miss this one! Learn about the fascinating world of the carnivorous plants that grow at Carolina Beach State Park.  Meet at the Nature Trail Parking Lot at 10a. Hikes take place Saturday and Sunday.

Sunday June 22

Boogie in the Park

This week enjoy 80’s music by the M-80’s!  Bring your chairs or blankets to Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 5p ~ 8p.

Movie by the Lake

Bring a chair, blanket and cooler of snacks.  No worries if you forget the cooler – they’ll have popcorn, sodas, candy and cotton candy for sale.  Movies begin at dusk and this weeks’ (6/22) flick is Saving Mr. Banks

For more FREE Events in Wilmington NC bookmark this page and check back frequently.  If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

 

Posted in General Interest
June 11, 2014

Wilmington NC area FREE Events June 12 ~ June 15, 2014

New Hanover County schools are out on Friday the 13th and it’s time to celebrate!  Here’s hoping you and yours have a glorious weekend!

Thursday June 12

Fireworks by the Sea

Come on down to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and enjoy a FREE concert and fireworks.  This week’s concert features the Chris Bellamy Band.  Fun begins at 6:30p.

6th Annual Port City Music Festival

The 6th Annual Port City Music Festival features world-class musicians performing in venues around Wilmington all weekend long. Check out their site for a complete schedule.

Friday June 13

Music on the Town Concert

Tonight it’s country rock and blues by Beachbilly!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

Downtown Sundown Concert

This week enjoy 80’s music by the Breakfast Club.  Wine & beer for sale; no coolers, outside beverages or dogs.  Riverfront Park Water Street at Princess. 6p ~ 10p.

End-of-School Celebration

Greenlands Farm in Bolivia NC, is hosting an End-of-School Celebration featuring free admission to the Children's Petting Farm, plus games, and prizes. Other attractions for purchase include Pony Rides. Ice Cream, snow cones, and popcorn are available for purchase. 668 Midway Road SE Bolivia NC 10a ~ 3p.

Shakespeare on the Green

22nd season of Shakespeare on the Green continues with Comedy of Errors.  Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. 1941 Amphitheater Drive. Performances are Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8p and gates open at 6:30p.

Saturday June 14

Kids Music Fest

Come celebrate the beginning of summer vacation with the New Hanover County Public Library and help kick off their summer reading program in style. Entertainment, games, and fun await. Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 9a ~ 12p.

2nd Saturday Program

The Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Kure Beach, NC presents another 2nd Saturday Program, this one focusing on Artillery. 10a ~ 4p.

Tennis: Give it a Try

The Greater Wilmington Tennis Association and Play Tennis NCinvite you to give Tennis a Try. This program is for all ages and takes place at Porters Neck Country Club. 10a ~ 12p.

Sunday June 15

Boogie in the Park

This week enjoy music by Port City Shakedown!  Bring your chairs or blankets to Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 5p ~ 8p.

Movie by the Lake

Bring a chair, blanket and cooler of snacks.  No worries if you forget the cooler – they’ll have popcorn, sodas, candy and cotton candy for sale.  Movies begin at dusk and this weeks’ (6/15) flick is Despicable Me 2

For more FREE Events in Wilmington NC bookmark this page and check back frequently.  If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

Posted in General Interest
June 3, 2014

Wilmington NC area FREE Events June 5 ~ June 8, 2014

There is so much to do and see in our area, it’s hard to keep this short!  Here’s hoping you and yours have a glorious weekend!

Thursday June 5

Fireworks by the Sea

Come on down to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and enjoy a FREE concert and fireworks.  This week’s concert features Machine Gun.  Fun begins at 6:30p.

Sunset SUP Series

Blockade Runner and Beach Resort hosts a Sunset SUP Series every Thursday night thru August 28.  Different course each week and determined by conditions at 4p on race day.  They’re offering a 10 minute lesson before every race and there are kid’s races every other week.  6:30p.

Friday June 6

Music on the Town Concert

Tonight it’s music by Eastbound!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

Downtown Sundown Concert

This week enjoy Same As It Ever Was.  Wine & beer for sale; no coolers, outside beverages or dogs.  Riverfront Park Water Street at Princess. 6p ~ 10p.

Friday Variety Show

Enjoy tunes performed by Magic & Music.  Ocean Front Park in Kure Beach. 630p ~ 10p.

Shakespeare on the Green

22nd season of Shakespeare on the Green continues with Comedy of Errors.  Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. 1941 Amphitheater Drive. Performances are Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8p. 

Saturday June 7

Rune, Ride & Roll

Run, Ride & Roll at Arbor Park at Autumn Hall. Featuring games in the park from 10a ~ 12p and a Scavenger Hunt at 10:30a. 2 routes: One is 3.1 miles and the other is 7.9 miles.  Participants can walk, run, bike or skate. Pre-Registration required.

Cape Fear Bonsai Society Show

Inaugural Cape Fear Bonsai Society Show at the New Hanover County Arboretum.  Featuring demonstrations, vendor area, large exhibit of bonsai trees styled by local bonsai artists, and more. 10a ~ 4pm.

Learn to Row Day

Join the Cape Fear River Rowing Club as they celebrate National Learn to Row Day. Take a tour of the club’s boathouse, learn proper rowing technique, then row on the Cape Fear River with experienced club members. Must be at least 14 years old and in good physical condition to use the rowing machine and participate in on-the-water rowing. Please wear fitted, athletic clothing, socks and sun protection. 8:30a ~ 12p.

Sunday June 8

Boogie in the Park

This week enjoy music by Uncle Hairy!  Bring your chairs or blankets to Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 5p ~ 8p.

Movie by the Lake

Bring a chair, blanket and cooler of snacks.  No worries if you forget the cooler – they’ll have popcorn, sodas, candy and cotton candy for sale.  Movies begin at dusk and this weeks’ (6/8) flick is Big Miracle.  Check here for the complete summer schedule.

For more FREE Events in Wilmington NC bookmark this page and check back frequently.  If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

Posted in General Interest
June 2, 2014

Rip Current Safety

Well folks, it's that time of year again.  Tourists and locals alike are flocking to Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach NC -- enjoying the sun, sand and surf.  That beautiful blue-green water is calling our names and nothing feels quite as refreshing as a quick dip or swim in the inviting Atlantic Ocean.

One of the things we all, experienced and novice swimmers alike, need to remember is how to identify a rip current, how to avoid them or, worst case, survive one.  They're out there folks, and you shouldn't rely on luck or a lifeguard to keep you safe.  Not that our lifeguards don't do a fantastic job -- they do!  But why tempt fate when it's so easy to avoid a problem by educating yourself?

First, keep in mind that swimming in the ocean is very different from swimming in a pool.  You may be a heck of a swimmer at the local Y, but the ocean makes her own rules.  Please, please, please don't let children swim out alone.  They are no match for the ocean.  And when you do choose to swim, swim near a lifeguard. 

Learn to identify signs of a rip current.  These signs are not always present, but are often a good indicator.

  • a channel of churning, choppy water
  • an area having a notable difference in water color
  • a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving steadily seaward
  • a break in the incoming wave pattern.

Here are a few more tips, including what to do if you are caught in a rip current.

  • Never swim alone.
  • Be cautious at all times, especially when swimming at unguarded beaches. If in doubt, don't go out!
  • Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard protected beach.
  • Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards.
  • If caught in a rip current, remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
  • Don't fight the current. Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
  • If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.
  • If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself:  face the shore, wave your arms, and yell for help.
  • If you see someone in trouble, get help from a lifeguard. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1. Throw the rip current victim something that floats and yell instructions on how to escape.

Have fun at our beaches, but be smart and safe.  That way you can return again and again!

If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.Rip Current Safety

 

Posted in General Interest
May 27, 2014

Wilmington NC area FREE Events May 29 ~ June 1, 2014

There is so much to do and see in our area, it’s hard to keep this short!  Here’s hoping you and yours have a glorious weekend!

Thursday May 29

Fireworks by the Sea

Come on down to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and enjoy a FREE concert and fireworks.  This week’s concert features Marty McFly.  Fun begins at 6:30p.

Sunset SUP Series

Blockade Runner and Beach Resort hosts a Sunset SUP Series every Thursday night thru August 28.  Different course each week and determined by conditions at 4p on race day.  They’re offering a 10 minute lesson before every race and there are kid’s races every other week.  6:30p.

Friday May 30

Music on the Town Concert

Tonight it’s Southern and classic rock by Groove Fetish!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

Downtown Sundown Concert

This week enjoy U2 tribute band, UV.  Wine & beer for sale; no coolers, outside beverages or dogs.  Riverfront Park Water Street at Princess. 6p ~ 10p.

Friday Variety Show

Enjoy tunes performed by Wilmington Big Band.  Ocean Front Park in Kure Beach. 7p ~ 10p.

Saturday May 31

Children’s Program: Hurricanes

Elementary aged children will enjoy this program featuring WECT-TV weatherman, Eric Adams, speaking about all things hurricanes.  There will also be crafts and a book reading. Wrightsville Beach Museum 10a ~ 10:45a. 

Paint-Out

Observe artists at work and vote on People’s Choice Award.  Burgwin-Wright House Museum.  10a ~ 4p.  Reception 6p ~ 9p.

Sunday June 1

Boogie in the Park

This week it’s rock, pop and beach music by Central Park!  Bring your chairs or blankets to Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 5p ~ 8p.

Movie at the Lake

Bring a chair, blanket and cooler of snacks.  No worries if you forget the cooler – they’ll have popcorn, sodas, candy and cotton candy for sale.  Movies begin at dusk and this weeks’ (6/1) flick is Tom & Jerry: Robin Hood and his Merry Mouse.  Check here for the complete summer schedule.

For more FREE Events in Wilmington NC bookmark this page and check back frequently.  If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

Posted in General Interest
May 21, 2014

Wilmington NC area FREE Events May 22 ~ 26, 2014

Hard to believe it’s already Memorial Day weekend! While you’re enjoying your weekend please remember the reason we celebrate Memorial Day and take a moment to remember and honor those who have given their all for our freedoms.

Thursday May 22

Legos in the Library

Kids ages K – 5 are invited to create Lego structures that meet different challenges each session.  Main Library Downtown and pre-registration is required. 910.798.6303 3:30p ~ 4:30p

Big Dawg 24 Hour Playfest

Teams of 4-6 actors write, rehearse and perform an original 1 act play. Thursday and Friday are adult teams 18 and up. Saturday and Sunday youth teams ages 10 – 17.  Performances at 8 p on Friday and 3p on Sunday. 613 Castle Street.

Friday May 23

Music on the Town Concert

Tonight it’s Southern and classic rock by Jam Sandwich!  Bring your chairs, blankets and coolers!  Kids will enjoy the three bounce houses, cotton candy and snow cones. 6p ~ 9p. Mayfaire Town Center

Downtown Sundown Concert

This week enjoy Rolling Stones tribute band, Satisfaction.  Wine & beer for sale; no coolers, outside beverages or dogs.  Riverfront Park Water Street at Princess. 6p ~ 10p.

Shakespeare on the Green

22nd season of Shakespeare on the Green kicks off with As You Like It performed by theShakespeare Youth Company.  Greenfield Lake Amphitheater  1941 Amphitheater Drive. Performances are Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8p. 

 

Saturday May 24

Pedal in the Park

Celebrate National Bike Month with New Hanover County Parks & Gardens and Cape Fear SORBA.  “Trail Buddies,” introduces kids to the joys of mountain biking. Learn about trail riding, trail and bicycle maintenance, and safety. Bicycles and helmets provided. Ages 7-14. Blue Clay Bike Park 3840 Juvenile Center Drive Castle Hayne, NC 28429 10a ~ 3p. 

Discover the Wonder of Birds

Join the Cape Fear Audubon Society and Discover the Wonders of Birds at Halyburton Park.  Special guest appearance -- Eva the Red-tail Hawk from the Skywatch Bird Rescue. 9a ~ 12p.

Sunday May 25

Boogie in the Park

This week it’s reggae with JAH Creation!  Bring your chairs or blankets to Oceanfront Park in Kure Beach. 5p ~ 8p.

Movie at the Lake

Bring a chair, blanket and cooler of snacks.  They’ll  also have popcorn, sodas, candy and cotton candy for sale.  Movies begin at dusk. This weeks’ flick is Frozen.  Check here for the complete summer schedule.

Monday May 26

49th Annual Memorial Day Observance

Event features a military guest speaker, an all-service Color Guard, 21-gun salute by a Marine Corps Honor Guard, military band, taps, and a memorial wreath cast onto the waters. Battleship North Carolina  5:45p.

 

For more FREE Events in Wilmington NC, bookmark this page and check back frequently.  If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Wilmington NC, give me a call.  I’m passionate about my community and helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals! Tish Lloyd Broker/REALTOR® BlueCoast Realty 910.547.1446.

 

Posted in General Interest