I was quite surprised to find few rentals, in the area, on the popular real estate web sites, given the number of properties for sale in the area.
We have used a local agency for vacation rentals and their web site lists 28 long term rentals in Calabash. DM me if you want their contact info.
The area has changed little over the years, a few new grocery stores, some newer housing developments, lots of failed developments.
They just broke ground (this spring) on the Calabash Town Center at the corner of 179 and business 179. Supposed to be a mix of residential and retail.
The small swing bridge to Sunset Beach is gone, replaced by a large two lane span
Sunset Beach Town Council names new bridge – Brunswick Today - Wilmington Star News - Wilmington, NC - Archive
Sunset Beach (the Island) has not changed at all except for the new bridge, some new homes and the fact that you can now walk from Sunset Beach to Bird Island, they are now sand connected.