Hurricane impact  plays a huge role in Ocean Isles history. With only one high rise bridge as the only way on or off of the island (excluding private boat) during the summer when around 20,000 people occupy the island; this can sometimes be time consuming. However, with a permanent population of only around 639, there is rarely a traffic jam on during the off season.      Upon entering the island, one is immediately greeted by many of the islands places to visit. Just across from the island on the mainland, are over twenty of the areas golf courses. At about the middle of the island there is also a public pier which is used for fishing and other activities. For the avid shopper, there are also numerous unique boutiques found on Ocean Isle.       After coming across the high rise bridge and driving down the causeway, you will come to the end of the road where your only options are turning left or right.      Ocean Isle Beach is a seven mile barrier island surrounded to the east by Shallotte Inlet and Tubbs Inlet  to the west. You can access either inlet by entering the beach via a CAMA public beach access and then making your way to either end of the island. Simply driving to either end will not accomplish this, as most of Ocean Isle is residential. Tubbs Inlet is surrounded by a private gated community (insert private picture) making it impossible to access except by walking down the beach.      At the east end of Ocean Isle you will also find an expansive area of maritime forest(link to description of maritime forest) (maritime2 picture). The maritime forest is evident along most of Ocean Isle’s landward side.      Along with it’s seven miles of beach, Ocean Isle also 72 finger canals that have been artificially constructed to add waterfront property for building.       Along with privately owned residence on Ocean Isle, it is also has several places to stay. There are three inns, several rentals and cottages, and one high rise condominium complex. There are also several restaurants and food stores.