Bald Head Island is a small stretch of land situated off the coast of North Carolina, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Cape Fear River to the west. This island is only accessible by ferry from the town of Southport. With a land area of less than 4 square miles, and only 158 residents (according to the 2010 census), this village creates truly small-town and remote atmosphere. Couple this with spectacular beach and water conditions and truly unique features, and you will find a beach house vacation spot that you will never want to leave.
When you rent a beach house on Bald Head Island, you are joining a close-knit community that strives to make their island a beautiful and natural place. You won’t find any gas-guzzling cars here: getting around is done on bike, on an electric golf cart, or on your own two feet. Most of the island is a dedicated nature preserve—10,000 of the island's 12,000 total acres. The area is home to dolphins, sea turtles, alligators, deer, foxes, a variety of fish, and over 200 species of birds. One of the best ways to enjoy all of this beautiful nature is to take a hike along the miles of walking trails in Maritime Forest, or to go kayaking or canoeing down Tidal Creek. Even the golfing here is environmentally friendly—the Bald Head Island Club golf course was designed with holes that border the natural habitats of herons, egrets, foxes, and alligators.
Your Bald Head Island beach house will be situated along the 14 miles of beaches, giving you premium access to all things water related. The Sail Shop lets you rent kayaks, surfboards, and beach equipment like chairs and umbrellas. They also offer guided kayak and canoe trips, sailing excursions and lessons, and surf lessons. No matter how you choose enjoy the sand or the waves, you will love every minute spent at the beach.
Bald Head Island is nationally recognized for its sea turtle nesting activity. Most of the sea turtles here are the Loggerhead variety, and the community of Bald Head is committed to the conservation effort to keep these animals happy and healthy. Visitors can participate in a nightly Turtle Walk with the Conservancy's Sea Turtle Protection Staff, with the chance to see sea turtles nesting or hatching. The fame of the sea turtles here has given rise to the phrase, “I’m on Turtle Time,” underscoring the carefree and relaxed feeling of Bald Head Island.
When you rent a Bald Head Island beach house, you can expect to find delicious fresh-caught seafood in any local restaurant. For example, the Dalphina Cantina is a small restaurant serving fresh local seafood and daily specials, prepared with Cuban, Mexican, and Caribbean flair. And since the village is so small, you won’t have to wander far to find cuisine that will hit the spot.
Few destinations offer the relaxed, all-natural feel of Bald Head Island. If you really want to connect with nature on your next vacation, rent a Bald Head Island beach house and become a member of this extraordinary community for a few days.