East End

Holden Beach offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes. For seafood lovers, SmacNally’s is a great choice, offering a casual and cozy atmosphere with a focus on seafood dishes. Another popular spot is Mermaid’s Island Grill, which serves island-style food with a mix of Greek flair. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, Castaway’s Raw Bar provides a beachfront setting with live music and a variety of seafood options. Additionally, Dock House Seafood offers a family-friendly environment with a focus on grilled and fried seafood. These restaurants provide a range of dining experiences, from casual to more upscale options, all while offering stunning views of the surrounding waters.

For accommodations near Holden Beach, the Gray Gull Motel is a convenient option, offering modest lodging with an outdoor pool. Another choice is the Ocean Crest Motel, located nearby on Oak Island, which provides basic beachfront accommodations with an outdoor pool and BBQ area. These motels offer straightforward, comfortable stays for those visiting the area. For more extensive options, vacation rentals are also available through agencies like Coastal Vacation Resorts, which provide a range of homes and condos suitable for families and groups.

Holden Beach offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The beach itself features restrooms and showers, making it convenient for a day of swimming or sunbathing. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are opportunities to rent equipment like surfboards, kayaks, and bikes, allowing visitors to explore the island and its waters. Additionally, picnic areas are available for those who want to enjoy a meal with a view. The nearby town of Shallotte also provides grocery stores and other essential services, ensuring that visitors have access to everything they need during their stay.

Holden Beach is a haven for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and kayaking in the ocean. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with opportunities to fish from the shore or charter a boat for deeper waters. For those interested in exploring the island, there are bike routes and hiking trails that offer scenic views and a chance to spot local wildlife. The beach is also pet-friendly during certain times of the year, making it a great destination for families with dogs. Additionally, events like the NC Festival by the Sea and the Day at the Docks Festival add to the lively atmosphere of the area.

Holden Beach offers several accessibility features to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the area. Many of the local restaurants, such as The Cove Restaurant and Mermaid’s Island Grill, provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. Additionally, some accommodations like the Gray Gull Motel offer accessible rooms. However, it is advisable to check with specific establishments for their accessibility features to ensure they meet individual needs.

Parking at Holden Beach is generally convenient, with free parking lots available near the beach and at many of the local restaurants and shops. The causeway leading to the island is lined with additional parking options, ensuring that visitors have ample space to park their vehicles. While parking is free, it can become crowded during peak season, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. The proximity of parking areas to the beach makes it easy for visitors to access the shoreline and enjoy their day without worrying about parking logistics.

Holden Beach has a rich history dating back to 1756 when it was purchased by Benjamin Holden. The island has been developed as a resort community since the 1920s and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. It is also recognized as a top family beach destination, thanks to its serene environment and variety of outdoor activities. The beach is a nesting site for sea turtles, and conservation efforts are in place to protect these creatures. Additionally, the annual NC Festival by the Sea and the Day at the Docks Festival are popular events that draw visitors from across the region.

One of the main attractions at Holden Beach is the fishing pier, which offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great spot for fishing. The island is also a habitat for sea turtles, providing a unique opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural environment. For those interested in exploring beyond the beach, the nearby town of Shallotte offers shopping centers and golf courses. Additionally, the city of Wilmington and Myrtle Beach are within a short drive, providing access to additional attractions and activities for those looking to venture further afield.