This magical, rather ethereal season in Holden Beach, North Carolina is so very special. It’s quieter. The waves breaking on the lovely eight miles of shoreline are the feature of the night air that is otherwise more still. An overflowing giving spirit drenches the community throughout the island, businesses, and churches, in genuine efforts of neighbors helping neighbors.
It’s a sweet time that invites us to embrace the goodness of the season and the beauty of this gift of such a lovely place to retreat.
As you plan your next getaway to the Brunswick Isles, we want to share a few of our favorite peaceful places we enjoy as an escape, to reflect, or to soak in the glorious beauty.
It’s quite simple… exquisite coastal beauty as the backdrop to create life-giving moments and memories to carry home.
Our Favorite Peaceful Places
1. Sunrise on the East End
Drive all the way down Ocean Boulevard East and park in one of the public parking spots near the point of the island perched at the junction of the inlet, Atlantic Ocean, ICW, and Lockwood Folly River. Settle in for a while with your coffee (and phone for the occasional photo) and be overwhelmed by how the morning sky is birthed into the new day.
2. Sunset on the West End
You can walk down the shoreline from the closest public beach access to your vacation rental, bike all the way down the streetside, or find a public parking place as far west as you can go. However you arrive, find a place on the west end of the island to celebrate the day watching the sun show off as it melts colorfully into the horizon.
3. The Kindred Spirit Mailboxes
Holden Beach is blessed to be home to two of the Kindred Spirit mailboxes, a favorite trek for visitors and guests alike. It’s a simple yet profound way to center yourself. Use our guide to learn more about how to find the mailboxes and what to expect.
4. Winter Cruise down the ICW
Traditionally, folks think about boating days belonging to the hot summer days. Once you experience this time of year being completely immersed into the quiet beauty of the Intracoastal Waterway as you slowly cruise - in your boat or hosted by one of our local experts - you’ll see the sacredness of Holden Beach in a whole new light.
5. Afternoon Beach Time
Sometimes we overlook the most obvious, but some of the most prized moments on the beach can be late afternoon when the last stragglers departed and all that remains are you, your companions, and the heavy sun not quite ready to set, still providing its warm rays to be still with.
6. A Marsh Mosey
We often focus on the headliners of the oceanfront, the island ends, or the lovely ICW. But deserving of a spotlight of its own are the marshes to explore in your canoe or kayak. It’s often these more isolated hideaways that you can commune with nature and all of its wildlife offerings. It’s always a fun adventure to experience a beach marsh vacation home.
7. Puttering Along the River
Whether it’s your small craft, a paddle board, or a jet ski, you need to experience the natural wonders of the Lockwood Folly River. It’s a world all its own the further you travel down the marsh-flanked river with all kinds of coastal birds and critters in their natural habitats. HOBBS TIP: There are numerous local businesses that provide rental options to help you get on the water.
8. Picnic with a View
Sailfish Park is the ideal place for grabbing your favorite takeout (or yummy leftovers from the night before) and blanket to enjoy a serene picnic under the trees with the Intracoastal as your view. HOBBS TIP: There are also a few picnic tables to use and a narrow beachfront to explore.
9. Canal Quiet
One of the most peaceful things to enjoy in your kayak or canoe or on your paddleboard,, is to dip in and out of the canals. There are three sets so just pick one closest to your vacation home or launch location. You’ll be lulled into your peaceful zone with just the sounds of the birds flapping in and out of the canal and of your oars pushing through the water. You’ll also be inspired into vacation home dreams as you catch glances at the back sides of the homes lining the canals.
10. Oceanfront Deck Dining
Among the biggest advantages of renting an oceanfront home are the amazing outdoor living spaces from which to enjoy the views east to west from sunup to sundown. Whether you play chef in your gourmet kitchen or order out, the oceanside decks are perfect for easing into your no-worry zone over a nice meal.
See You Soon
This list is just a starter reference to help you find your happy places along the island. We encourage you to search our website by location to decide in which area you want to make your memories, but we’re always here if you need a little extra Hobbs help to find the perfect beach house for your needs! Contact us at (800) 655-3367 and let’s make it happen. Your peaceful, happy place is waiting!
We hope to see you soon – at the beach!