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Home >  United States  >  North Carolina  >  Holden Beach  >  

Big Beach

Big Beach

United States, Holden Beach, Holden Beach 

Sandee
Sandee

Big Beach

United States, Holden Beach, Holden Beach 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee Big Beach

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Holden Beach, located on the southern coast of North Carolina, is a serene barrier island known for its 9 miles of oceanfront. It is the largest of the South Brunswick Islands and has been consistently ranked among the top family beaches in the U.S. by National Geographic Traveler. The beach offers a tranquil atmosphere with limited commercial development, making it an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation. The bridge connecting the mainland to Holden Beach provides a stunning view of the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. With a small year-round population that swells during the season, visitors can enjoy activities like boating, surf fishing, and hiking without the crowds found at more commercialized beaches.

The island's natural beauty includes sea turtle habitats, and visitors can enjoy watching these creatures during nesting seasons. Holden Beach is conveniently located near Shallotte for additional shopping and dining options, and it's within driving distance to Wilmington and Myrtle Beach for day trips.

Its nostalgic appeal and low-density development make it a perfect getaway for families and those looking for a peaceful beach experience.

Holden Beach offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes. Dock House Seafood & More is a family-friendly seafood restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere, offering grilled, fried, and broiled seafood dishes. Castaways Raw Bar & Grill provides a beachfront setting with Lowcountry seafood and live music, making it a great spot for both casual dining and entertainment. Mermaids Island Grill serves island-style dishes with a casual vibe, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. For a more upscale experience, SmacNally’s offers waterfront dining with a focus on seafood and cocktails. Additionally, Provision Co is a no-frills eatery with views of the Intracoastal Waterway, serving seafood and sandwiches.

For accommodations near Holden Beach, the Gray Gull Motel is a popular choice. It offers straightforward rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool, located just a short drive from the beach. While there are limited hotels directly on Holden Beach, nearby options like vacation rentals provide a range of choices for families and groups. For those looking for alternative accommodations, nearby campgrounds such as the Ocean Breeze Family Campground and Holden Beach RV Campground offer additional options for visitors.

Holden Beach provides several amenities for visitors. There are public beach access points with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. Bridgeview Park offers a playground, splash pad, and picnic shelters, making it a great spot for families. For outdoor enthusiasts, equipment rental shops are available for activities like biking, kayaking, and jet-skiing. The beach itself is well-maintained, with plenty of space for shelling and bird watching, especially at low tide.

Holden Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding. Fishing is a major draw, with opportunities for both surf fishing and charter boat excursions. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking along the island's scenic routes. For those interested in water sports, jet-ski and kayak rentals are available. The beach hosts events like the Summer Concert Series and festivals like the NC Festival by the Sea, adding to its lively atmosphere.

Holden Beach offers some accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Many restaurants and public facilities have wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms. However, the beach itself may present challenges due to its natural terrain. Visitors with mobility issues should plan ahead and consider renting equipment or seeking assistance if needed. While there are no specific wheelchair rentals available on the beach, nearby towns may offer such services.

Parking at Holden Beach is generally accessible, with public parking lots available near beach access points. However, the town has implemented parking restrictions to manage visitor numbers, especially during peak seasons. Visitors should be aware of these restrictions and plan accordingly. Parking fees may apply in certain areas, and it's advisable to check local regulations before visiting.

Holden Beach has a rich history dating back to 1756 when Benjamin Holden purchased the island. It has been a family-friendly destination for generations, known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. The beach is a nesting site for sea turtles, and visitors can observe these creatures during the nesting season. Holden Beach is also recognized for its limited commercial development, preserving its natural charm and making it a unique getaway from more crowded beach destinations.

Holden Beach is surrounded by attractions that enhance its natural beauty. The nearby town of Shallotte offers shopping and dining options, while historic Southport is just a short drive away. Visitors can also explore the Shallotte River Swamp Park or take a day trip to Wilmington to visit sites like The Battleship North Carolina. For nature lovers, the beach itself is a major attraction, with its pristine shores and wildlife, including sea turtles.

Basic Details

INParking

INRestroom Available

INbeige

IN1059 Ocean Blvd W, Holden Beach, NC 28462, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Car Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Foot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Big Beach - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Big Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Big Beach have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Big Beach a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Big Beach good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Big Beach have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Big Beach a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Big Beach?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple restaurant options near or on the beach.

    What are the activities at Big Beach?

    Yes, this Beach is a good place to Fishing

    Does Big Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Big Beach a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Big Beach good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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