801 Ocean Event Center

Oceanview Room

With oversized windows, exposed brick, custom ironwork and high ceilings, the Oceanside Room will set the perfect scene for your special occasion. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this 1,750 square-foot banquet room is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. As with all spaces at 801 Ocean, tables and chairs are included in the rental cost.

Outdoor Patio

Just steps from the beach, 801 Ocean has a beautiful patio for receptions, ceremonies, buffets or bars.

Main Dressing Area

Designed for you on your special day, this primary dressing area at 801 Ocean provides three private dressing spaces, along with a private restroom. There is ample space for the bridal party to dress and celebrate the occasion.

Conference Room / Secondary Dressing Area

Need a space for a private meal or meeting? The 801 Ocean Conference Room is easily accessible from the parking lot and can accommodate 10-12 people. With a private restroom, the space can also serve as a secondary dressing area.

What’s included with the venue rental?

Your rental includes access to the facility, tables and chairs, setup and breakdown of our tables and chairs, plus complimentary Wi-Fi for you and your guests.

Does the venue rent by the hour or the day?

We rent by the hour based on your total access time to the building. This time should include vendor setup, decorating, your event, and cleanup.

Can I choose my own vendors?

Absolutely! We’re an open-vendor venue, so you’re free to bring in the caterer, DJ, photographer, or other vendors you love. We also have a list of local vendors we trust and recommend if you’d like suggestions.

Can I serve alcohol?

Yes! You’ll just need to have a licensed bartender serve and you will need to obtain a special occasion permit from the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Don’t worry — our team can guide you through the process.

Can I bring my own food?

We ask that all food be prepared by a caterer or restaurant with liability insurance. This helps ensure everything is safe and up to code for your event.

Do you require insurance?

Yes, we require a one-day event liability insurance policy. It’s quick and easy to set up, and our team can walk you through the steps.

How do I secure my date?

To reserve your date, we’ll need a signed contract, 50% of the rental fee, and a $500 security deposit. Once that’s in place, your date is officially yours!

Are we required to clean the venue?

Nope! We take care of the cleaning for you. A cleaning fee will be charged to cover the professional cleaning company that tidies up after your event.

Can I have a wedding ceremony on the beach?

Yes, of course! Beach ceremonies are yours to plan and arrange. If you’d like chairs, an arbor, or other setup, you’ll need to rent them from a local company (our tables and chairs stay indoors). Keep in mind the tides and remember that the beach is public — your ceremony won’t be a private area.

Do you have an on-site coordinator?

A member of our team will always be present during your event to make sure the venue runs smoothly. While we don’t act as a full event coordinator, we’re here to help with any venue-related needs on the day.

Rental Rates for 801 Ocean are based on the time of the year (in-season or off-season) and the day of the week. Weekdays are considered Monday - Thursday, with weekends Friday - Sunday.

Oak Island property owners receive a discount on rental fees.

In-Season (April 1 - October 31)

• Weekdays (Monday - Thursday)
  • Property Owner: $200 / hour
  • Non-Property Owner: $300 / hour
  • Nonprofit group (501c-3): 50% off Hourly Rate
• Weekends (Friday - Sunday)
  • Property Owner: $300 / hour
  • Non-Property Owner: $400 / hour
  • Nonprofit group (501c-3): Discount not applicable

Off-Season (November 1 - March 31)

• Weekdays (Monday - Thursday)
  • Property Owner: $100 / hour
  • Non-Property Owner: $200 / hour
  • Nonprofit group (501c-3): 50% off Hourly Rate
• Weekends (Friday - Sunday)
  • Property Owner: $200 / hour
  • Non-Property Owner: $300 / hour
  • Nonprofit group (501c-3): Discount not applicable

Deposit & Additional Charges

• A 50% rental deposit is required (cash, checks and credit cards accepted)
• A $500 (refundable) security deposit is required
• Additional charges apply for audio-visual, linens, additional staffing, etc.
• All renters pay a cleaning fee

Dreaming of a beachfront wedding on Oak Island? Many couples choose the serene, picturesque beaches of Oak Island as the perfect spot to say "I do." As Oak Island’s only beachfront event venue, 801 Ocean offers a stunning setting with expansive windows, exposed brick, and a coastal chic vibe ideal for both your ceremony and reception. Located just 45 minutes south of Wilmington, our venue is conveniently situated next to the iconic Oak Island Pier, making it a sought-after destination on the North Carolina coast.

Our space comfortably accommodates up to 130 guests. The venue rents on an hourly basis, where all fees include tables, chairs, and setup, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

We have multiple dressing areas, providing spacious room for the entire bridal party to get ready. The Open-Vendor Policy allows you to create your own atmosphere through your preferred vendors for catering, floral arrangements, DJs and more.

Weddings on the Beach

While small wedding ceremonies on the beach do not require a Special Event Permit permit, obtaining one is recommended, so that first responders can be aware of your group's location if emergency response is needed. If you are holding any part of your ceremony or reception at 801 Ocean, a permit will be completed for you.

If needed, a marriage license can be obtained from the Brunswick County Register of Deeds Office by calling 910-253-2690 or through the Register of Deeds website.

Important Reminders

• Space: The beach is a public area, space is provided on a first-come, first-available basis. While you may politely request others to move, they are under no obligation to do so.
• Tides: It is highly recommended to check the tide forecast and how your selected location is affected at high tide.
• Equipment: Items such as tents, chairs, arbors, etc. should not be placed on the beach before 7:00 AM. All items must be removed immediately after the ceremony.
• Preservation: To help preserve sand dunes and berms, please use only the designated walkways, pathways, and Beach Access Locations provided by the Town.