About The Sunset Inn
Realizing the Dream, Meet Dave Nelson
In 2000, Dave Nelson finally fulfilled his childhood dream. He paid back and paid forward, his childhood inspiration with the opening of Sunset Inn.
Dave first visited Sunset Beach in 1965 as a young boy, vacationing in one of the few homes on the island. Growing up in Western North Carolina, he was captivated by its beauty and knew he wanted to live there someday. After years of family vacations and eventually owning property, he made the move in 1990, leaving a secure management job to follow his dream. As he crossed the one-lane pontoon bridge during his move, he took off his watch and tossed it in no more time clocks. It’s Island Time now, a lifestyle he highly recommends.
Over the years living on the island and working with Century 21 Sunset Realty, Dave became the top sales agent, a Masters Club member, and a multiple time Century 21 Centurion recipient. He is also a licensed North Carolina General Contractor and owner of Dave Nelson Construction.
While Dave and his wife Kelly are active in real estate, you’ll often see them working around the property as well, especially in the gardens, where Kelly creates the beautiful baskets and planters.
Operations Manager, Meet Samantha Carnahan
Samantha Carnahan relocated to the coast from the western part of North Carolina, bringing with her years of hospitality experience from the Inn on Biltmore Estate. Her background has given her a strong foundation in guest service, operations, and the many details that go into creating a memorable stay.
Stepping into the role of General Manager at The Sunset Inn, Samantha is excited to build upon the foundation that has been created over the years while bringing her own experience and perspective to the Inn. She is passionate about creating a welcoming environment where guests can slow down, relax, and feel at home. Alongside her team, Samantha is committed to maintaining the personal touches, peaceful atmosphere, and high standards that guests have come to know and appreciate at The Sunset Inn.
Taking the reins of an inn with such a long history is a meaningful responsibility, and Samantha looks forward to becoming part of that story while helping write its next chapter.
Supporting the team are office assistants Debi Echard, Mona Johnson-Gibson, and Donna Schmidt, who each play an important role in the day-to-day operations of The Sunset Inn. From helping guests with reservations and questions to keeping things organized behind the scenes, they help ensure that everything runs smoothly from the moment a reservation is made through the end of a guest’s stay.
Marketing and Brand Development, Meet Andrea Ward
Andrea Ward has been part of The Sunset Inn’s story from the very beginning. She was there during construction, helping bring the vision for the Inn to life, and when the doors opened in 2000, she took the helm and poured more than two decades of heart and dedication into making it a special place for guests.
Over the years, Andrea has welcomed thousands of guests, and had the privilege of getting to know so many people who have returned year after year. Some guests have become familiar faces and lasting friends, making her years at the Inn about so much more than simply running a business.
After 25 years of leading the Inn, Andrea feels grateful for the memories, the friendships, and the many people who have been part of its journey. She has now happily passed the reins to Samantha and focuses her energy on marketing, where she can continue to share the story of the place she helped build and the peaceful coastal experience that makes The Sunset Inn so special.
Housekeeping Manager, Meet Yesenia Rivera
Yesenia has been an important part of The Sunset Inn family since 2003. For more than two decades, she has taken great pride in caring for the Inn and ensuring that every room is clean, comfortable, and welcoming for each guest who walks through the door.
Yesenia’s attention to detail and commitment to high standards are a big part of what makes a stay at The Sunset Inn feel special. She works behind the scenes to make sure everything is just right, from the smallest details in each guest room to the overall care and appearance of the Inn. Her dedication, reliability, and years of experience have made her an invaluable part of the team and a familiar, trusted face to many returning guests.
What Our Guests Say
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comfort, and coastal charm of Sunset Beach.
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