The earliest reference to the river and the town of Shallotte dates back to 1734, though records of settlement of the area are dated around 1750. The Town of Shallotte was incorporated on March 6, 1899, and according to some accounts it took its name from a traveler who crossed the river by ferry and referred to it as the Charlotte River. The Charlotte River later became known as the Shallotte River and the town was referred to by the same name. In the early years agriculture, fishing and a river waterfront full of small watercraft used to transport goods to and from the area, were the means by which residents earned a living.

The town of Shallotte now serves as the hub for services for Brunswick County's beach communities. Because of its mainland location and island proximity, Shallotte offers residents and visitors the convenience of larger-town living and services. Here you will find shopping malls with grocery stores and national chain department stores, and a 10-screen movie theater. The Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce is headquartered in Shallotte, as is the office of the Department of Transportation and the North Carolina Welcome Center. With a year-round population of approximately 1,700, Shallotte is still considered a small town though it has a lot of the amenities that larger cities provide. Shallotte is centered almost directly between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, with the commute to either city being roughly 30 to 40 minutes. It is approximately 10 minutes from Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach.