Holden Beach vacation rentals Archives • Holden Beach Vacations Blog

August 31, 2023August 31, 2023

Don’t Miss the 43rd Annual NC Festival by the Sea

Don't Miss the 38th Annual NC Festival by the Sea

If you are planning on coming and visiting Holden Beach this fall, then you don’t want to miss the 42nd Annual North Carolina Festival by the Sea. This is held every year in late October in Holden Beach, NC. Staying in one of our pet-friendly vacation rentals will keep you close to where the fun and activities are being held. This year the festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 29th and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 30th.

This event is held by the Greater Holden Beach Merchants Association and is a 2 day event that you and your family can enjoy. Not only will you get enjoy a parade on Saturday to start out the festival. And what a better way to experience the festival than to walk across the bridge to Holden Beach. This event has free admission and free parking.

Let the Fun Begin

Just besides the parade, you and your family can enjoy so many different things happening during the festival. If you have children, there will be a children’s area that is just for them like face painting or crafts. Not only will there be something there for the kids, but there is something for everyone. And if you want to hear live music there will be plenty of that for you to enjoy. food will be amazing and there will be over 100 Arts and Crafts Vendors for you to shop from. If you have someone on your Christmas list that likes unique gifts, then this is the event for you to attend. Get handmade gifts for those special people in your life.

And just when you don’t think you could have any more fun, there will be plenty to do during the weekend. If you are still searching for that perfect vacation rental for your vacation or getaway, allow us at Holden Beach Vacations to help you with your search! We hope you will make coming to this event and Holden Beach a yearly vacation!

July 31, 2023July 31, 2023

Top 8 Activities in Holden Beach

Everyone looks forward to a beach vacation. It’s when they can kick back and relax without a care in the world. While some people want to stay as busy as possible, going non-stop the entire time, we’re more about being low key and taking the easier, slower route. Let’s face it – don’t we rush about enough in our day-to-day lives? Aren’t we supposed to do things differently when we break away for vacation? That would be the “vaca” part – as in vacate your normal mode of operation.

When families come to Holden Beach, NC, for a vacation they can be as laid back as they want. They can sit on the beach in a lounge chair and do nothing but soak up the warming rays of the sun. Or they can take advantage of local events going on around the area and numerous activities. Here are the top 8 activities in Holden Beach this summer that we think you’ll want to check out!

Free Summer Concerts

Every Sunday night through Sept. 6 there are Free Concerts from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Holden Beach Pavilion on Jordan Boulevard, Holden Beach. Bring a chair and your dancing shoes! Music ranges from jazz to rock & roll and beach music to oldies.

March of the Turtles

Holden Beach is a popular sea turtle habitat. During the hatching season from May to October you can watch as hundreds of small sea turtles “boil out” of the sand and march into the ocean during the night. Read more about this Turtle Watch program.

Learn to Surf

a group of teenagers along with an instructor learning how to surf at the beach

You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to surf at the Carolina School of Surf, 118 Ocean Blvd East, Holden Beach. They specialize in kid’s surf camps, private surfing lessons and group surfing lessons.

Golf

Lockwood Folly is our local course located at 19 Clubhouse Drive in Holden Beach. This links style course winds its way around salt marshes, creeks, forests, fields and the community. This course gets named “Best Golf Course in Brunswick County” time and time again.

Fishing Charters

Go out on a fishing charter boat and enjoy recreational cruises, family fun fishing charters, Gulf Stream fishing, and ¼ day, ½ day and full day fishing with Catch22 Fishing Charters.

Ice Cream & Mini Golf

You can’t go on vacation and not enjoy at least one game of miniature golf. Fantasy Isle Ice Cream and Mini Golf provides everything you need for a fun memory-making outing for the family. Located at 3354 Holden Beach Rd. SW, Holden Beach.

Explore by Kayak or Bike

Beach Fun Rentals has several kayak models to choose from to explore the local flat waters and surf the ocean wave. Singles and tandems available. Daily and weekly bicycle rentals include children’s bikes, adult beach cruisers, tandems, and three wheelers.

Jet Ski Rentals

Experience a power packed ride while zooming across the water – something your kids won’t ever forget! Skis can hold up to three people so it’s an excellent choice for a family outing. WaveRunner Jet Skis are available to rent from Holden Beach Watersports at the Holden Beach Marina, 3238 Pompano St. SW, Holden Beach.

When you’re making your plans for a Holden Beach visit be sure to print this list out. Bring it with you and you’ll have leads on fun-filled events that just might make this your best vacation ever!

June 24, 2023June 30, 2023

Spend Fourth of July at Holden Beach

Are you and your family vacationing to Holden Beach for the 4^th of July celebrations? If the answer is yes, then you will be in for a treat here in Brunswick County. Many families love to come to Holden Beach every year to celebrate the fun holiday with their friends and family. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals can help you save money and still have the whole family stay with you. Let’s take a look at what some of the fun things that you and your family can do while you stay with us below.

4^th of July Celebration in Ocean Isle Beach

Head over to Ocean Isle Beach on Tuesday, July 4^th where you and your family can watch the 4^th of July Parade that will be held at 10:00 am. Here you will be able to see the spectacular decorated floats, golf carts, bicycles and more in which will be judged and awarded a prize. If you are in search of fireworks while you are vacationing with us, then head over to Ocean Isle Beach Pier on July 3^rd starting 9:00 pm. Don’t miss the fun that Ocean Isle Beach has to offer you on your next family vacation to Holden Beach.

Southport 4th of July Festival

Every year the City of Southport has a wonderful 4^th of July celebration that begins on July 1^st and ending on July 4^th, 2023. Here you and your family will be able to enjoy several different things such as the Flag Raising Ceremony, Veteran’s Recognition Ceremony and so much more. There will be plenty of things for the kids to do as there will be entertainment, games and even a pancake breakfast. Admission into the festival is free but bring money with you to grab food and crafts. Make visiting this festival for years to come as there is something for everyone to celebrate!

Wilmington Fireworks

Wilmington has some great fireworks display that you don’t want to miss this year. There are many different places where you and your family can sit down and relax to watch the annual 4^th of July fireworks. One of the best places to sit and watch them is at Riverfront Park near downtown . Bring a blanket or towel to sit down and enjoy the amazing display. The fireworks will begin around 9:00 pm so come downtown and grab a quick bite to eat and go grab yourself a nice spot by the waterfront to watch the fireworks display. What a fun evening to spend in nearby Wilmington with the family.

While there are many other fireworks displays going on July 4^th, these are the ones we thought you’d enjoy. If you still haven’t found a place to stay for your vacation, then check out some of these Holden Beach vacation rentals today. We look forward to seeing you and your family this 4th of July at Holden Beach.

May 30, 2023May 30, 2023

Your Holden Beach Packing List

Do you have a vacation planned to Holden Beach this year but don’t know what to pack? We know that packing for a week at the beach can be overwhelming, especially if you’re bringing the whole family. We at Holden Beach Vacations wanted to share what to pack for your next stay with us. Let’s look below at a more detailed list to get you packed for your next vacation to Holden Beach.

Vacation Home List

Bath Towels/Hand Towels
Washcloths/Loofa
Bed Sheets (Be sure to check what is included when booking)
Blanket/Pillows
Dish Towels/Sponges
Toilet Paper
Paper Towels
Napkins
Coffee Filters
Laundry Detergent/Fabric Softener/Dryer Sheets (if your rental has a washer/dryer)
Dish Soap/Dishwasher Tablets
All-Purpose Cleaner/Disinfectant Wipes

Trash Bags
Foil/Plastic Wrap
Storage Containers/Ziplock Baggies
Hand Soap for the Bathrooms/Kitchen
Tissues
Clothes Hamper/Basket (a foldable works well)
Reusable Water Bottles
Spices, Salt/Pepper/Non-Stick Cooking Spray
Nightlights/Sound Machine
Items for your Baby (Pack-n-Play, Bedrail, Highchair, Bouncer/Swing)

Beach Things

Sunscreen
Aloe/Aloe Lotion
Beach Umbrella/Chairs
Beach Towels/Blankets
Cooler
Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Boogie Boards/Floats/Rafts

Beach Toys
Beach Bag or Tote
Books/Kindle
Sunglasses/Hats
Beach Wagon/Cart
Rash Guard with SPF Protection
Baby Powder (gets sand off quickly)

Personal Belongings

Glasses/Contacts/Solution/Case
Deodorant
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Body Wash/Soap
Shampoo/Conditioner
Haircare Products
Razors/Shaving Cream
Feminine Products

Makeup/Cleanser
Hairdryer/Styling Tools
Brush/Comb
Insect Repellant
Hand Sanitizer
Lotion/Moisturizer
Medications/Vitamins (for the whole family)

Clothing

Underwear/Bras/Undershirts
Sleepwear
T-Shirts
Dress/Casual Shirts
Jeans/Pants
Shorts
Dress (for a night out)

Swimsuits/Cover-Up
Leisure Shoes
Tennis Shoes
Sandals/Flip-Flops/Water Shoes
Purse
Beach Bag/Tote
Dress Shoes

Miscellaneous

Microfiber Towel
Laptop/Tablet (plus chargers)
Waterproof Phone Case
Insurance Cards
Flashlight with batteries
Credit/Debit/ATM Cards

Cash
List of Emergency Contacts
Camera with Memory Cards & Charger
Phone Chargers
Driver’s License

We could suggest many other things to bring; these are the items we wanted to share with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us in a Holden Beach vacation rental, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how this list helped you prepare for your upcoming vacation!

April 30, 2023April 30, 2023

Don’t Miss the 2023 Holden Beach Concert Series

It’s hard to believe that the 2023 Holden Beach Concert Series will begin soon. This year you and your family can stay in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals and will be able to enjoy live music. Holden Beach is an excellent destination to vacation with your family, and there are many things you can do together. Let’s look below at the details of the 2023 Holden Beach Concert Series.

2023 Holden Beach Concert Series Lineup

Don’t Miss the 2020 Holden Beach Concert Series

May 28^th – The Extraordinaries

June 4^th – Continental Divide

June 11^th – The Main Event Band

June 18^th – Cat 5

June 25^th – The Embers

July 2^nd – The Tams

July 9^th – Chairman of the Board

July 16^th – The Entertainers featuring Craig Woodard

July 23^rd – Band of Oz

July 30^th – Blackwater Band

August 6^th – Jim Quick and Coastline

August 13^th – Too Much Sylvia

August 20^th – Gary Lowder & Smokin Hot

August 27^th – Carolina Kool

September 3^rd – North Tower

A Little More Information on the Concert Series

The Holden Beach Concert Series has been going on for years, and it’s where you and the family can go listen to live music for free. They will be on every Sunday evening beginning at 6:30 pm and ending at 8:00 pm. Every week the concerts will be held at the Pavilion that is under the Holden Beach bridge. There will be refreshments for you and your family to purchase, so be sure to bring some cash with you. When it’s time to head out to the concert, bring your beach chairs or towels to sit on as you listen and dance together!

Summer is quickly coming, and now is the time to book your family vacation with us. We still have plenty of Holden Beach vacation rentals that will accommodate your whole family. We look forward to seeing you and your family this summer and hope to see you at the concerts too!

March 31, 2023March 31, 2023

Enjoy Easter on Holden Beach this Year

Do you and your family have a vacation to Holden Beach this Easter? If the answer is yes, then allow us to share a few ways you can enjoy the holiday while on vacation. Staying with us in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will allow you and your family to be close to the fun. Let’s look below at how you can enjoy Easter this year on Holden Beach with the family.

Turtle Trot 5K

Health young couple jogging together next the ocean during a magnificent sunset - People work out on the beach - Relationship, sport, lifestyle concept

Does your family love to participate in fun runs at home? If you do, you might want to check out the Turtle Trot 5K on nearby Bald Head Island on Saturday, April 8^th. This event is hosted by the Bald Head Island Conservancy, which is excited that they are returning this year. The 5K will begin at 8:30 am, and there will be several different age brackets to join, so everyone in the family can join in. Be sure to grab your tickets to the event today to guarantee your spot and receive that famous turtle trot shirt & sea turtle medal.

Southport Easter Egg Hunt

Another great event that you and your family can join for Easter is the Southpoint Easter Egg Hunt. This event is on Saturday, April 1^st starting at 10:00 am at Franklin Square Park, and this year don’t forget your baskets. This family-fun event is perfect for the kids to hunt eggs with over 1000 along with candy that will be scattered around. Think of the fun the kids will have as you make new memories with this fun event.

While there are many other fun things that you can do in Holden Beach and around the area, we wanted to share these with you. Now is the time if you haven’t booked your vacation to stay in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals. We look forward to hearing how you will enjoy your Easter vacation here on Holden Beach.

February 28, 2023February 28, 2023

Things To Do When it Rains on Vacation

Things To Do in Holden Beach When It's Raining

When you finally find yourself on that much-needed Holden Beach vacation and the forecast calls for rain, don’t fret. There are plenty of indoor things to do in and around Holden Beach that will ensure you stay dry on even the rainiest of days. Here are just a few of the more popular ones.

Ocean Isle Beach Community Center

Take the family and visit the Ocean Isle Beach Community Center and enjoy scheduled events and activities like Summer Fun Camp for kids, Family Fun activities, and Pot Luck Dinners. Location: 44 East First Street, Ocean Isle Beach, NC.

Fun Adventures at the Bowling Alley

Family fun can be found for all ages at Planet Fun Bowling & Arcade. Come enjoy bowling, mini golf, laser tag, arcade games or the grill next door. Location: 349 Whiteville Rd. NW, Shallotte, NC.

Museum of Coastal Carolina

A vacation to Ocean Isle Beach isn’t complete without a trip to the Museum of Coastal Carolina at 21 East Second Street, Ocean Isle Beach. Art shows and regularly scheduled events are for the whole family. There is an admission fee of $10 per adult, $9 per senior, $8 for children 3-12 and free for 2 and under.

Ingram Planetarium

If you’ve never visited a planetarium the Ingram Planetarium at 7625 High Market Street in Sunset Beach is the place to go! Movies, laser light shows and music shows. There is an admission fee is $10 per adult, $9 per senior (62+), $8 for each child ages 3-12 and free for ages 2 & under.

Visit a Winery

Silvery Coast Winery / Winery Tasting Room

The Silver Coast Winery is located on Ocean Isle Beach at 6680 Barbeque Rd., NW, and at 105 South Howe St., Southport. The winery is known for their wine festivals, assortment of other special events and their wine tasting rooms.

Do a Little Shopping

Go Shopping in Holden Beach When It's Raining

Spend the day shopping but be sure to visit Island Art & Books, OIB Surf & Java and The Beach Mart.

Other Local Attractions

Visit the uss_north_carolina battleship in Wilmington NC

Or hop in the car and go for a short road trip to Southport and Wilmington, NC, where you can enjoy the NC Maritime Museum at Southport, the Old Brunswick County Jail Museum, and definitely not to be missed, the Battleship USS North Carolina in Wilmington.

Rain doesn’t have to spoil your vacation, not when you have all these activities to do and sites to see in the area. When you’re ready to make those vacation bookings, come rain or some shine, give us a call at Holden Beach Vacations at 800-842-6949 and we’ll assist you in any way we can.

January 30, 2023January 31, 2023

Super Deals on Dog Friendly Beach Rentals in Holden Beach

If the long cold northern winter is wearing you down and you want to escape to where the flowers are blooming and the sun is shining, come to Holden Beach, North Carolina. Spring is a time many people wait for to plan their early season vacation. Our dog friendly beach rentals in Holden Beach will be just perfect for you and your four legged best friend. Plus, at Holden Beach Vacations we have plenty of availability!

It’s never too early to reserve your accommodations if you want the best selection of our dog friendly available homes. Any one of our comfortable and affordable condo rentals that are dog friendly might be exactly what you need to warm yourself up.

At Holden Beach Vacations we have an excellent assortment of beautifully furnished condos for you to choose from whether you’re wanting a pet friendly home or not. Take the time to browse our website and see the photos we have posted of each of our vacation rental properties. You’ll know pretty quickly which one speaks to you to come and stay awhile in North Carolina!

What to Bring With You for Your Pets

You’ll want to ensure you have the essentials for the week when you travel with your pet. We recommend that you bring a kennel or cage you can put your pet into whenever you go out. This will not only keep them safe, but since they will not be in their usual home, it will be easier on them. Having enough food with you will make your trip much more manageable, along with their food and water dishes from home. Be sure to pack in your vehicle a blanket or bed they may lay on at home, toys, treats, and leashes. No matter what, they will feel at home with all the goodies you bring.

When you stay in one of our dog friendly beachfront condo rentals you’ll have easy access to everything around coastal North Carolina. Whether you’re coming to visit family, play some golf, or just relax away from work and home, we have the perfect place to stay for your entire family — pets included.

Give us a call today at 800-842-6949. Tell us the size of the rental you’re looking for, what amenities you’d like to have and where you’d like to stay and we’ll help you choose the perfect vacation rental that allows pets. Tell us when you’re coming and how long you’d like to stay and we’ll tell you what’s available. We’ll put you in the ideal pet-friendly vacation rental and at a price you can afford. You can count on us!

May 29, 2022May 29, 2022

3 Best Places to Eat Breakfast at in Holden Beach

breakfast including bacon, eggs, toast and more on a plate

Do you and your family have a vacation booked to Holden Beach this year? If you do, allow us to share our top 3 picks to grab breakfast from while on vacation. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will allow you and your family to be close to some of these great restaurants. Let’s look below at where we think are the three best places to eat breakfast on Holden Beach.

The Scoop

Bagel with cream cheese spread with orange juice and coffee in background

If you’re on the hunt for a good bagel shop near Holden Beach, then look no further. The Scoop is in Supply, NC, and has some fantastic items on its menu. There is something for everyone, from the classic cinnamon raisin & plain bagels to their sundried tomato and jalapeno cheddar ones. You can also get a bagel sandwich, burritos, and waffles for breakfast. They also serve lunch daily, giving you a break from the beach and sun to enjoy some time together. Don’t miss out on this fantastic restaurant on your next trip to Holden Beach.

Archibald’s Deli

Archibald’s Deli is another excellent location where you can grab breakfast in Holden Beach. While they do have a small breakfast menu, it’s still one that we had to mention. From getting to dine on some sandwiches, you can also enjoy croissant sandwiches and fresh items from the bakery. And if you’re in the mood for a few other things during the day, you need to check out the rest of their menu. Think of the food you’ll get to taste before heading home from vacation.

Macie & Ethel’s

southern breakfast complete with waffles, eggs, bacon, orange juice and grits

One of the best places to get breakfast at Holden Beach is Macie & Ethel’s. This is a southern kitchen restaurant, and we can tell you it’s a favorite among our guests. Located in the heart of Holden Beach is where you’ll find this quaint restaurant to grab a bite to eat with the family. Some of the items you will find on this menu are fried green tomatoes, brunch with eggs, bacon, pancakes, etc. Think of the fun your family will have at this restaurant while getting that great southern hospitality.

While there are many other places to grab breakfast or coffee, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals, call us. We can’t wait to hear what restaurant your favorite for breakfast was while on your family vacation to Holden Beach!

February 28, 2022February 28, 2022

Where to Get Coffee at While on Vacation to Holden Beach

Are you headed to Holden Beach for vacation soon and you’re wondering where you can get coffee at in Holden Beach? If the answer is yes, then we at Holden Beach Vacations know where you can go and grab a cup of coffee in the area. Many locals love to get a cup of coffee on their way into the work or just to have as a pick me up from many of these local coffee shops. If you are staying with us in one of our Holden Beach house rentals, then you won’t be too far from some good coffee. Let’s look at our top picks for where you too can grab a cup of coffee at while on vacation.

Ocean Boulevard Coffee

Ocean Boulevard Coffee is located in the heart of Holden Beach and is a favorite among the locals. Here you be able to grab a hot or cold up of coffee, Chai Tea, Flavored Lattes and even Iced Tea. You can also get some of the daily specials or enjoy a fruit smoothie. Another kind of drink you can try would be their OBC Specialty Drinks which happen to include Bella’s BonBon, Darla’s Dream and more. Don’t miss out on this coffee shop while you are on vacation this spring and summer!

Café Ahora

Just before you reach the island you will find a quaint little coffee shop called Café Ahora. Here you will be able to grab yourself a cup of coffee and a few special treats. They have several different coffee options for you to choose from such as a hot cup of coffee to a Cold Brew. You can also get a smoothie or another kind of drink for the rest of the family to enjoy. Treat yourself and family to a Chocolate Chip Cookie or a Freshly Baked Muffin. What more could you ask for in a local coffee shop?

Drift

Drift is another favorite among many locals and has a different but unique vibe to it. You will be able to find this coffee shop in nearby Ocean Isle Beach and you are able to get different kinds of drinks and food here. From an Americano, Espresso and Drip Coffee to an Iced Americano and Milkshake with Coffee, you won’t want to try anything else again. They also offer their customers Holistic Drinks that are served with almond milk such as Matcha Latte, Beet Latte, and a Golden Latte. Don’t forget to grab a little breakfast while you are here such as their Avocado Smash, Ham Egg & Cheddar or a Market Bowl Breakfast.

Cappuccino by the Sea

Cappuccino by the Sea has been open for 25 years and they aren’t like any other coffee shop in the area. Here you and your family will be able to visit, paint some pottery, shop and enjoy a nice cup of coffee or two. Fresh coffee is brewed every morning and afternoon and you will find Columbian coffee here. During the summer months you will be able to cold coffee along with coffee ice cubes. As the ice melts your coffee may get stronger which only makes the coffee better. You are also to grab a few of other drinks such as Chai Tea, Lemonade and hot chocolate. Don’t miss this gem on your next vacation this year.

The Scoop

Young beautiful happy woman with long curly hair enjoying cappuccino in a street cafe

The Scoop is located on the main land of Holden Beach and it’s where you can find some tasty treats along with coffee. Some of the things you can get are bagels, breakfast burritos, bagel sandwiches and even waffles. To go along with you breakfast, their iced coffee we’ve heard is pretty amazing. They have several different flavor shots to go into your coffee whether it’s hot or cold. Don’t forget to get some ice cream for the kids too even in the morning because you’re on vacation!

While there are other options for coffee shops in the area, these are the few we’d thought you would enjoy. If you are still on the hunt for a place to stay this year, then check out our Holden Beach house rentals today. We can’t wait to see you and your family on your next vacation to the area!

Let the Fun Begin

Free Summer Concerts

March of the Turtles

Learn to Surf

Golf

Fishing Charters

Ice Cream & Mini Golf

Explore by Kayak or Bike

Jet Ski Rentals

4th of July Celebration in Ocean Isle Beach

Southport 4th of July Festival

Wilmington Fireworks

Vacation Home List

Personal Belongings

Clothing

Miscellaneous

2023 Holden Beach Concert Series Lineup

A Little More Information on the Concert Series

Turtle Trot 5K

Southport Easter Egg Hunt

Ocean Isle Beach Community Center

Fun Adventures at the Bowling Alley

Museum of Coastal Carolina

Ingram Planetarium

Visit a Winery

Do a Little Shopping

Other Local Attractions

What to Bring With You for Your Pets

The Scoop

Archibald’s Deli

Macie & Ethel’s

Ocean Boulevard Coffee

Café Ahora

Drift

Cappuccino by the Sea

4^th of July Celebration in Ocean Isle Beach