Bay Beach

Dining on Bald Head Island offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Jailhouse Provisions is a popular spot for American cuisine, known for its fast service and great cocktails. Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub provides a cozy atmosphere with a focus on comfort food and live music. For breakfast enthusiasts, Boat House BHI is a great choice. Will O' the Wisp offers a casual setting with live music and trivia nights. Additionally, Shoals Club is renowned for its excellent food and service in a beautiful location.

These establishments provide a mix of casual dining and more formal settings, ensuring there's something for everyone on the island.

Accommodations on Bald Head Island are primarily focused on bed and breakfast inns, offering a cozy and intimate experience. The Inn at Bald Head Island provides relaxed accommodations with harbor views and a garden, complete with loaner bikes for exploring the island. Another option is The Marsh Harbour Inn, which also offers free Wi-Fi and a peaceful setting. These inns are ideal for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst the island's natural beauty.

Both inns are well-rated and offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere that complements the island's serene environment.

Bald Head Island offers a range of amenities that enhance the visitor experience. The island features several swimming pools, tennis courts, and a championship golf course. Additionally, there are restaurants and snack bars available for dining and refreshments. For those interested in water activities, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular options in the marshes and creeks. The island also provides access to a marina for those interested in boating.

Visitors can rent bicycles or electric golf carts to explore the island, as no gasoline-powered vehicles are allowed. This setup ensures a peaceful and environmentally friendly experience.

The island's amenities are designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, providing a holistic experience for visitors.

Bald Head Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the serene waters of the marshes and ocean. The island's championship golf course is another major attraction, offering a challenging yet scenic experience. For those interested in history, visiting Old Baldy, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, is a must. The island's beaches are perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the sunset over the Atlantic.

The absence of cars makes the island an ideal place for cycling and walking, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Bald Head Island offers some accessibility features, particularly in its public spaces and accommodations. Many restaurants and inns have wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. However, due to its natural and historic nature, some areas may be less accessible. Visitors are advised to contact specific establishments or the island's public safety department for detailed information on accessibility options.

The island's emphasis on bicycles and golf carts for transportation can also pose challenges for those with mobility issues, though some accommodations may offer assistance or alternative transportation methods.

Parking on Bald Head Island is limited due to the absence of gasoline-powered vehicles. Visitors typically leave their cars in the parking lot at the Indigo Plantation Marina in Southport before taking the ferry to the island. Once on the island, transportation is primarily by bicycle or electric golf cart, which can be rented. This setup ensures that the island remains peaceful and environmentally friendly.

There are designated parking areas for golf carts and bicycles, but these are not intended for traditional vehicles.

Bald Head Island is unique in that it is one of the few places on the East Coast where the sun both rises and sets over the Atlantic Ocean. The island is home to nearly 200 species of birds and other wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. Its location at the tip of Cape Fear, where the Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic Gulf Stream, creates a diverse ecosystem with a mix of subtropical and temperate environments.

The island's history is rich, having played roles in both the American Revolution and Civil War. It is also known for its treacherous sand bars, known as Frying Pan Shoals, which have been the site of numerous shipwrecks over the centuries.

One of the most iconic attractions on Bald Head Island is Old Baldy, North Carolina's oldest lighthouse. Built in 1817, it offers tours and stunning views from its top. The island also features a marina and several clubs, including The Shoals Club and the Bald Head Island Club, which offer exclusive amenities for members. Additionally, the island's beaches and natural preserves provide endless opportunities for exploration and wildlife spotting.

The island's historical significance is evident in its role during the American Revolution and Civil War, with sites like Fort George and Fort Holmes.