Dreaming about your next Holden Beach vacation brings up good memories… the feel of sand between your toes, basking in the sunshine, the taste of your favorite menu item at your go-to restaurant, or reading and relaxing on the deck with the sights and sounds of the ocean in the background.
We hope this guide will also inspire you to add watching dolphins and whales playing in the waters to your Holden Beach to-do list! While you’re enjoying all of the outdoor activities and adventures our family beach offers, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of these beautiful creatures.
Dolphins and Whales in Holden Beach
The drive over the Holden Beach bridge provides a gorgeous view of our unique location between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean on the southern coast of North Carolina, where dolphins and whales visit Holden Beach throughout the year.
Entertaining dolphins visit our area throughout every season as they often follow shrimp boats or sometimes play closer to shore, while whales around Holden Beach are more often spotted between November and April during migration seasons. The most common types of whales seen in our area are humpbacks and right whales; both are on the endangered species list. The right whale is one of the most critically endangered whale species in the world.
Whether you’re scanning the horizon from the deck of your Hobbs Realty vacation rental, a guided boat tour, or any number of other island activities, the anticipation of a dolphin or whale sighting will be enjoyed by all ages!
Holden Beach Whales
Whale sightings in Holden Beach aren’t as common as dolphins, but when it happens, it’s spectacular! So, during your hours of gazing at the water and horizon during your week at the beach, remember to keep a watchful eye out for these majestic beings.
Humpback whales were given their name because of the hump on their dorsal fin - and it certainly makes it easy to identify them when they are diving in the water. These large creatures are gray or black, with patches of white on their flippers, chest, and belly. Humpbacks found in the Northern Hemisphere reach an average length of 49-52 feet. The average weight of an adult male is 50,000 to 80,000 pounds, with females generally being even larger.
The humpback whale was one of the first species to be protected by the Endangered Species Conservation Act in 1973. Since that time, global conservation efforts have rebounded their total population to nearly 80,000 humpback whales (from a previous low of 10 to 15 thousand). However, they are still listed on the Endangered Species List and are also protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
The North Atlantic right whale has also been listed as endangered since 1970. It’s estimated that only 360 members of this species remain, with less than 70 of those being females able to reproduce. Right whales have stocky black bodies with no dorsal fins, with adults growing up to as much as 52 feet long.
The largest dangers to whales include net entanglements, vessel strikes, ocean noise, and climate change. Due to migration habits and water temperatures, the winter months are the most likely time to catch a glimpse of a whale.
Holden Beach Boating, Fishing Charters, and Guided Tours
If you’re planning to enjoy some saltwater fishing while visiting us here on Holden Beach, you’ll have the opportunity for potential dolphin and whale sightings.
There are several fishing charters located in Holden Beach, offering a variety of offshore, nearshore, and inshore trip options. In addition to a fishing adventure with friends or family, you might also spot dolphins or whales during one of these fun trips!
If you’re experienced on the water and comfortable navigating a new area, renting a boat may be a great option for you, or you can take a guided scenic tour from a local guide like Tour H2O (BONUS: They’re a Hobbspitality partner and you can receive a 10% off discount off your tour of 3+ hours by showing your bracelet!).
Whether you’re fishing or sightseeing from the beach, a boat, or a charter fishing trip, always keep an eye out for wildlife. You don’t want to miss a sighting!
Responsible Wildlife Viewing Practices
As stewards of our coastal environment, it's our responsibility to ensure the well-being of the wildlife and marine life that call Holden Beach home.
When you are dolphin and whale watching, remember to keep a safe distance from these wild animals. Because right whales and humpback whales are both endangered, it is actually illegal to be within 500 yards (1,500 feet) of them. If you’re driving a boat, watch your speed and pay attention to your surroundings. Just in case you do get closer to a dolphin or whale than planned, remember to refrain from feeding or touching them.
By respecting their natural habitat and observing from a distance, we can minimize our impact on their delicate ecosystem and ensure that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy these amazing creatures.
Visit Holden Beach, NC
Whether you’re a seasoned island visitor or a first-time guest on Holden Beach, there is something truly magical about witnessing marine life in its natural habitat. So, grab your binoculars, pack a picnic, and get ready to create memories with your family that will last a lifetime.
Search our selection of Holden Beach vacation rentals, and don’t hesitate to give us a call at (844) 846-4885 if we can help you choose your perfect island getaway.
We hope to see you soon… at the beach!