From thrilling water sports to relaxing beach days, Holden Beach does not disappoint! We're here to help you have an amazing week creating lasting memories with your loved ones and we hope our Holden Beach Summer Guide will inspire you with exciting ideas!
1. Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Before launching out on fun area excursions, take a day to appreciate the amazing vacation rental you carefully researched and selected, and the the sandy shores of Holden Beach awaiting you just outside your door! Whether sunbathing, swimming, fishing, or building sandcastles with the kids, the beach is perfect for family fun. Our wide, clean beaches offer plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the ocean breeze. Bring your beach chairs, umbrellas, toys, and plenty of snacks to make the most of your day!
HOBBSPITALTY TIP: Check your vacation rental for beach chairs and other accessories the homeowners may provide for their guests.
2. Explore Water Sports
For the adventure seekers, Holden Beach offers a variety of water sports. Try kayaking through the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, paddleboarding along the shoreline, or jet skiing for a high-speed thrill. There are rental shops nearby, but many of our properties offer a $250 beach gear credit included with your stay! Remember to check the weather conditions and wear life jackets before heading out.
3. Take a Scenic Boat Tour
Explore the beauty of Holden Beach from the water with a scenic boat tour. Whether it’s a dolphin-watching tour, a romantic sunset cruise, or a fishing charter there are plenty of options! These tours offer a unique perspective of the coastline and a chance to see marine life up close. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
4. Visit the Local Attractions
Holden Beach is home to several local attractions perfect for a summer day. Enjoy leisurely shopping at local gift shops, visit one of the island’s memory mailboxes, or explore the local parks and walking trails. Of course, kids always love spending an afternoon at Magic Mountain Water Slide, too! Any of these options are ideal for a leisurely day of exploring and offer beautiful views of the island’s natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera!
5. Dine at Local Restaurants
After a day of sunshine and sightseeing, refuel at one of Holden Beach’s many local restaurants. From seafood spots serving the catch-of-the-day to family-friendly diners and charming ice cream shops, there is something to satisfy every craving. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the warm summer evenings.
6. Go Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in Holden Beach every season and is enjoyed from various locations by all ages and skill levels. Try your luck at summer surf fishing, fishing from the community pier, or enjoy a guided fishing charter trip for an inshore or offshore fishing adventure. Local shops offer rentals and supplies and you can always ask for tips on the best spots to cast your line.
7. Enjoy Evening Activities
As the sun sets, you can enjoy stargazing on a clear night or a family game night at your vacation rental. Or, soak in the beautiful views over a late dinner at one of the best waterfront restaurants in Holden Beach.
8. Shop for Souvenirs
Take a stroll through the local shops and find the perfect souvenirs to remember your trip. From beachwear and handmade crafts to local art there’s something for everyone. Shopping is a great way to support local businesses and take a piece of Holden Beach home.
9. Participate in Community Events
Holden Beach hosts a variety of community events throughout the summer. Everyone enjoys the Sunday evening Free Summer Concert Series hosted by the Town of Holden Beach each week (seasonally). The NC Festival By the Sea is scheduled for the last full weekend in October every year. While visiting, don’t be surprised to see flyers or banners promoting local fish fries or other fun seasonal events in the area or at local churches.
HOBBSPITALITY TIP: Check the Town of Holden Beach’s events calendar for current seasonal and kids’ activities, such as the weekly Turtle Talks, Tide-Dye Tuesdays, or summer camps.
10. Relax and Unwind
It may sound obvious, but sometimes we tend to over-schedule our vacations and we just need a day to decompress from life’s flurry of activities. Spend a relaxing day experiencing beach yoga, reading a book about Holden Beach by the ocean, or sneaking in a well-deserved nap on the beach or the deck of your vacation rental. Holden Beach is the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and recharge your batteries.
SUMMER SAFETY TIPS
It’s easy to get immersed in Holden Beach sun and fun memory-making, but don’t forget the basics of summer safety in mind. Here are a few essential summer safety tips for your family to keep in mind during your beach vacation:
- Ocean Safety: Never swim alone and always know the rip current risk. If caught in a rip current, remain calm and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to shore.
- Hydration: There is nothing like summer beach heat, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. Refreshing summer fruits like watermelon are a delicious way to help stay hydrated!
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF often, wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
- Heat Safety: Take breaks in the shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Listen to your body and cool down if you start to feel overheated.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and local advisories, especially during storm season. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and know where to seek shelter if needed.
SEE YOU SOON
As you arrive on our beautiful island, you’re greeted by that Holden Beach bridge view and a summer paradise with endless activities and stunning natural scenery.
We can’t wait to welcome you and your family in Hobbspitality fashion! Book your perfect vacation rental and start planning your dream getaway today!
We hope to see you soon – at the beach!
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Darcy Geho is a contributing author to this Hobbs Realty blog post. She spent 11 years working in the vacation rental industry while she lived on and traveled the North Carolina coast. Like most of our visitors, when Darcy isn’t on Holden Beach, she looks forward to her next visit.