3 Top-Rated Beaches Near Holden Beach, NC
Quiet and placid during the off-season and buzzing with energy in summer months, North Carolina's coastal beaches stand out as some of the East Coast's finest! Just south of Wilmington lies a trio of gorgeous beaches, each offering its specialties while providing plenty of space for both relaxing and exploring.
Let's dive into these three spectacular beaches that will give you unforgettable experiences in the Holden Beach area.
Holden Beach
Situated perfectly between Sunset Beach and Oak Island, Holden Beach is an accessible, family-friendly paradise.
Parking is convenient and affordable at just $5 per hour between 9 am and 5 pm, with free parking available outside these hours. The maintained lots are strategically placed near beach access points, and the town offers an interactive map on its website to guide you to the nearest parking spots. Can't wait to see the waves? Check out the Holden Beach webcam to preview the coastline, monitor weather conditions, or just admire a beautiful beach sunset from afar!
Lifeguards patrol designated swimming areas during peak season, ensuring a safe environment for families. Clean restroom facilities and outdoor showers make transitioning from sandy adventures to dinner plans a breeze. Speaking of dining, Holden Beach's waterfront location guarantees exceptional seafood options. Provisions Company stands out with its waterside deck where you can savor freshly caught seafood, delicious handhelds, and refreshing drinks while watching boats glide by.
After a day of sunbathing and swimming, head to Holden Beach Pavilion for their free summer concert series. The perfect way to cap off a day on Holden Beach.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach earns its place among North Carolina's coastal beaches with its wide, uncrowded shoreline. Just a short drive from Holden Beach, it gives visitors plenty of opportunities for collecting seashells, building sandcastles, or simply unwinding to the rhythm of the waves.
Parking here is abundant. You can find parking at the pier for $10 a day, or auxiliary lot parking for $7 per day. While you can find free street parking, be mindful of the street signs and enforced laws. Multiple access points feature dedicated lots with boardwalks leading directly to the beach. Restrooms and changing facilities are available at main access points, though they're less numerous than at larger beaches, so planning ahead is advisable.
After working up an appetite from your day on the beach, head to Fibber McGees, an Irish tavern that serves some delicious comfort food! Their fish and chips paired with local craft beers make for the perfect post-beach meal. Time your visit to witness the spectacular sunsets that inspired the beach's name – truly a photographer's dream!
Mix things up by checking out Bird Island Reserve at Sunset Beach's western end. You’re bound to find various kinds of wildlife here. Check out the famous Kindred Spirit Mailbox, where visitors leave reflections and messages in journals – a sweet tradition that has been around for quite some time!
Oak Island Beach
Completing our trio of beaches is Oak Island Beach. Located just east of Holden Beach, this family-friendly destination has a little something for everyone! Oak Island has plenty of water sports opportunities, from paddleboarding to surfing. Try out some finishing by casting a line from the Oak Island Pier or arrange deep-sea charters from the nearby marina.
When you’re not coasting the beach, check out Oak Island Lighthouse, located at the island's eastern tip. Climb its 131 steps and get rewarded with beautiful views of North Carolina’s beaches!
Finding parking is straightforward with numerous public access points along the island. During peak season (April-September), expect to pay $5-10 for day parking at main lots, while free parking remains available at smaller access points.
When your crew gets hungry, Oak Island delivers amazing dining options. Joseph's Italian Bistro has beautiful dining near the intercoastal waterway, with Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes and homemade pasta. For a more laid-back atmosphere, try Moore Street Oyster Bar. You can enjoy fresh local catches with craft cocktails on their breezy outdoor patio.
BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR HOLDEN BEACH, NC
When looking for your Holden Beach rental, look no further than Rachele’s beautiful collection with Hobbs Realty. These properties line Carolina’s beaches, allowing you to make wonderful memories with loved ones! These homes offer everything you could imagine, from saltwater pools to decks overlooking the Atlantic. Each home has gorgeous views, with almost every property positioned near the oceanfront and private boardwalks leading directly to the sand.
Pools, bubbling hot tubs, and spacious decks make these homes the perfect vacation rentals. Relax on rockers and swinging benches on covered porches, plan family movie nights in cozy media rooms, or enjoy friendly competition in game rooms featuring pool tables and outdoor ping pong! These homes range from 3 - 9 beds, allowing plenty of space for you and your travel group!
Holden Beach's weather remains inviting throughout the year, so you can’t go wrong when booking your trip. It all comes down to preference. If you’re looking for calmer crowds, consider visiting during late fall through early spring when the beaches offer more solitude. Whether it’s a family reunion, a friends' getaway, or a romantic escape, Holden Beach is the perfect spot for bringing people together and enjoying peaceful shores with family-friendly amenities.
