There’s something truly magical about discovering a place that feels like it was meant just for you—a quiet spot where you can let down your guard, breathe deeply, and find a little peace. For me, that place is tucked away on Wrightsville Beach at Access 1, right next to Shell Island Resort. Here, two simple mailboxes stand quietly in the sand, offering something far beyond their modest appearance.
These mailboxes were placed there in 2003 by Bernie and Sidney Nykanen, and were later stocked with pens and notebooks. What began as a simple gesture has grown into a beautiful tradition—a place where anyone can leave behind a piece of their story. Over the years, these mailboxes have held it all: love letters, marriage proposals, prayers, messages to lost loved ones, and notes that carry both joy and heartbreak.
I remember the first time I stumbled upon them. The beach was calm, with only the sound of waves and the occasional seagull breaking the silence. As I approached the mailboxes, I could sense there was something special about them. I opened one, started reading the handwritten entries, and found myself consumed by the raw, honest emotions shared by complete strangers. In those pages, I found comfort, knowing that I wasn’t alone.
These mailboxes have become a refuge for anyone who needs to release their thoughts, share a secret, or simply feel connected to others. The stories you find within those notebooks are deeply personal—messages of love, sorrow, hope, and reflection. And yet, they’re shared with an entire community of people who may never meet, but who understand the need to be heard.
Whenever life feels heavy or my heart is happy, I find myself drawn back to Access 1, pen in hand. I sit by the ocean, with the waves as my soundtrack, and I write. It’s a chance to be honest with myself, to pour out my thoughts and to leave a little piece of myself in those pages. There's something liberating about knowing my words will linger with the stories of so many others.
If you find yourself at Wrightsville Beach, I urge you to visit these special mailboxes. It’s more than just a hidden gem—it’s a place where you can let your guard down and connect with something bigger than yourself. Whether you’re celebrating a joyful moment or working through a tough one, these mailboxes are there for you, ready to hold whatever you need to share. I promise, you’ll walk away feeling a little lighter.