Holden Beach vacation rentals Archives • Holden Beach Vacations Blog

March 31, 2024March 31, 2024

3 Tips for Booking Your Memorial Day Escape to Holden Beach

Beautiful Japanese woman sitting on the floor using laptop computer to book her Memorial Day Escape to Holden Beach

As Memorial Day approaches, dreams of sandy beaches, gentle waves, and picturesque sunsets become increasingly enticing. Holden Beach emerges as a perfect escape, offering a blend of tranquility and family-friendly activities. However, with its popularity, securing your spot in this coastal paradise requires some strategy. Here are three essential tips to ensure your Memorial Day escape to Holden Beach is as smooth as the sand beneath your feet.

Book Early to Secure Your Perfect Rental

Beach houses across the green sand dunes with a long wooden walkway, Holden Beach, North Carolina

The early bird doesn’t just catch the worm; it also catches the best vacation rentals! Holden Beach is a sought-after destination for Memorial Day getaways every year, thanks to its beautiful beaches and community feel. Start your search and book as early as possible to get the accommodation that suits your family’s needs. Whether you dream of a quaint beachfront cottage or a larger home for the whole family, early booking gives you the best selection at the best prices. Early reservations often come with more flexible cancellation policies, giving you peace of mind as your vacation approaches.

Embrace Unique Holden Beach Experiences

When planning your Memorial Day escape to Holden Beach, stepping off the beaten path can lead to the most memorable holiday experiences. Instead of following the usual tourist trails, why not delve into what makes Holden Beach unique? Connect with local anglers to learn about the area’s rich marine life. Or participate in a community beach clean-up to add a touch of eco-friendliness to your vacation. Local eateries and shops often celebrate Memorial Day with special offerings like fresh seafood and unique coastal crafts. By choosing activities that resonate with the unique charm of Holden Beach, the possibilities are endless.

Plan Your Activities But Leave Room to Be Spontaneous

Men, friends sail on a SUP boards in a rays of rising sun. Stand up paddle boarding - awesome active recreation in nature. Backlight.

Holden Beach offers plenty of activities, from relaxing on the beach’s warm sand to exploring nearby nature trails or water sports. While it’s wise to have a rough idea of what you’d like to do – perhaps booking a boat rental for the day – leave room to be spontaneous, too. The beauty of Holden Beach lies not just in its scheduled activities but in its unexpected discoveries, too. Allow yourself the flexibility to explore the area like a local or take some Stand-Up Paddleboard lessons. Remember, vacations are for relaxation and adventure, yet sometimes the best memories are the ones you didn’t plan.

Booking your Memorial Day escape to Holden Beach is the first step to creating unforgettable memories in this coastal haven. By booking early, tapping into unique experiences, and balancing planned activities with being spontaneous, you’re setting the stage for a holiday like you’ve never had. Holden Beach awaits you with open arms and gentle tides to help make your Memorial Day vacation the highlight of your year.

January 31, 2024January 31, 2024

Crafting the Perfect Family Valentine’s Day Vacation on Holden Beach

The concept of love, parenthood and a happy family. Mother and child daughter show heart from hands at sunset on beach

This Valentine’s Day, transform a simple holiday into an extraordinary family adventure on the sun-kissed shores of Holden Beach. Known for its gentle waves, soft sandy beaches, and welcoming community, Holden Beach presents an idyllic setting for families seeking to celebrate love differently. Discover how to create unforgettable moments in your Holden Beach vacation rental, from the first light of dawn to the starry night skies. Look below at how you can craft the perfect family vacation this Valentine’s Day on Holden Beach.

Kickstart the Day with a Special Valentine’s Day Breakfast

Heart-shaped pancakes with syrup and a strawberry on a white dish. A perfect breakfast for Valentine's Day.

Begin your Valentine’s celebration by filling your vacation rental with the aroma of a homemade, love-infused breakfast. Gather in the kitchen to whip up heart-shaped pancakes drizzled with red berry compote, sprinkle some powdered sugar, and we can’t forget that dollop of whipped cream. Accompany it with some fresh orange juice or hot coffee for the adults. This shared meal, prepared and enjoyed together, sets a tone of warmth and togetherness. It’s a great way to fuel the family for your day full of adventures and cherished memories at the beach.

Treasure Hunt with a Twist

Add a dash of adventure to your day with a Valentine-themed treasure hunt. Hide small gifts or love notes around your vacation rental for your family to find. Each clue could lead to the next, ending with a unique treasure or treat for everyone to enjoy. That treasure could be a day spent fishing on the Holden Beach Fishing Pier or hunting for shells on the shoreline. The possibilities are endless when you have a fun Valentine’s Day treasure hunt!

Picnic with a View

Another great way to spend Valentine’s Day is packing a picnic lunch with your family’s favorite snacks and treats and enjoying it on the beach. The view will be spectacular whether you have a beachfront home or just a short walk. Don’t forget to bring a beach blanket or fun beach games for a little after-meal fun.

Capture the Moments

family getting photographed by a photographer during golden hour on the beach

Make sure you capture the memories with a fun family photo session on the beach. Just before sunset, the golden hour offers the perfect natural lighting for stunning photographs. These photos will beautifully capture your family’s love and cherished moments on Holden Beach. To add a playful twist, bring along props like heart-shaped sunglasses or wear a fun Valentine’s Day shirt, making the photo session a cherished keepsake.

Creating the ideal family Valentine’s Day at Holden Beach focuses on shared experiences and love. Cherish the small moments, shared laughter, and peaceful times. These elements will make the day truly memorable. Have you secured your Holden Beach vacation rental yet? Now’s the perfect time.

December 31, 2023December 31, 2023

Planning Your Perfect Spring Break to Holden Beach with the Family

Happy family at beach on sunny spring day

Spring break is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to start planning a memorable family vacation to Holden Beach. This charming coastal town in North Carolina offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, ideal for families of all sizes and ages. As the anticipation builds, we at Holden Beach Vacations have compiled a quick guide to help you plan the perfect family vacation this year.

Book Your Accommodations Early

a family with a dad, mom, grandma and granddad at a beach house in Holden Beach, NC

Holden Beach Vacations offers a range of accommodation options to choose from, such as oceanfront, soundfront, and pet-friendly homes. With spring break being a popular time to visit, the thrill of securing your accommodations early cannot be overstated. We offer family-friendly rentals with amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, and outdoor spaces. No matter the size of the family, we have it just for you!

Create an Itinerary

To ensure that everyone in your family has a fantastic time, create a flexible itinerary with a mix of activities and relaxation. Consider including beach days, outdoor adventures like paddleboarding or kayaking, and visiting local attractions. Holden Beach Fishing Pier and Holden Beach Park are within walking distance of many of our vacation rentals. If you’re up for a day-long trip, explore the adventures near North Myrtle Beach for extra fun.

Dine at Family-Friendly Restaurants

Family Eating Meal At Outdoor Restaurant Together, Smiling

One of the best things about spending your spring break on Holden Beach is trying out some of the family-friendly restaurants in the area. It’s time to discover local seafood restaurants and eateries catering to your families. Dining out is a great way to experience local flavors and unwind after a day of adventure. Plus, who wants to cook every night of your vacation? It’s time to splurge a little too.

As you embark on your spring break adventure to Holden Beach with your family, remember that the memories you create together will last a lifetime. Remember that booking your accommodations now is essential to securing the best options and dates for your trip. As spring break is a sought-after time for families, the earlier the booking, the better. So, start planning today, lock in those reservations, and get ready for a fantastic spring break on the coast of North Carolina!

November 28, 2023November 28, 2023

A Holiday Getaway for the Whole Family to Holden Beach

Five different colored ornaments placed in the sand with a sea blurred out in the back with the words in a maroon colors saying A Holiday Getaway for the Whole Family

Picture a pristine stretch of sandy shores, the sound of the ocean waves, and your loved ones gathered around in a cozy vacation rental. This holiday season, escape life at home and embrace the extraordinary at the beach. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will allow your family to get more in the holiday spirit. Let’s peek below at why a holiday getaway for the whole family is needed this year.

Festive Decorations in your Vacation Haven

Young handsome dad hanging fairy lights on the Christmas tree with her two lovely daughters in living room at vacation rental.

Start the holiday magic right at your vacation rental this year. Gather the family for a decorating extravaganza. It’s time to string the lights, hang ornaments, and create a cozy ambiance that reflects the season’s warmth. Let the kids engage in holiday crafts that will help decorate your vacation rental. Make new ornaments with seashells you find on the beach, and add some twine to the top to hang on the tree. Think of the new memories you’ll make this year as you decorate your vacation rental in Holden Beach with the family.

Fun in the Sun & Tranquil Evenings

One thing that Holden Beach has is the unique charm of a southern beach town. Soak up the sun with a myriad of beach activities with the family. Build sandcastles with the kids, or simply relax under the shade of an umbrella with a drink in your hand. As the sun sets, take a walk along the shoreline and enjoy that refreshing sea breeze, which may be what the doctor ordered. Enjoy tranquil evenings with the family by playing exciting board games and sharing laughter that echoes throughout the night. Don’t forget to capture those precious memories against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean with the family just steps away from your vacation rental.

Create Lasting Moments

neon lights in the park. Trees decorated with garland, night illumination of a building at the beach

Holden Beach isn’t just a vacation destination; it’s a canvas for creating those lasting moments with family. Whether decking the halls, exploring local restaurants, or simply enjoying the warmth and love of togetherness, you’ll fall in love with our island more and more. Discover the Christmas lights around the island in your rented golf cart while singing holiday tunes together. The possibilities are endless for creating those lasting moments this holiday season in Holden Beach.

Make your holiday dreams a reality on Holden Beach this year. Secure your ideal vacation rental and embark on a journey filled with joy, adventure, and precious family memories. It’s not just a vacation but an opportunity to create timeless memories with the ones you love this holiday season!

October 24, 2023October 24, 2023

A Coastal Thanksgiving at Holden Beach

happy thanksgiving brush pen lettering. watercolor splash and linear leaves background. design holiday greeting card and invitation of seasonal american and canadian autumn holiday.

When celebrating Thanksgiving, the traditional images of cozy fireplaces and roasted turkey dinners may come to mind. However, if you’re searching for a unique and memorable way to spend this holiday, consider swapping the hearth for the sandy shores of Holden Beach. Located on the coast of North Carolina, it offers the perfect setting for a Coastal Thanksgiving that’s both unconventional and unforgettable.

A Beachfront Feast

Cook taking ready roast turkey with vegetables from the oven. Healthy cooking concept.

Thanksgiving at Holden Beach offers many opportunities to savor a coastal twist on the traditional offerings. Forget the classic turkey and stuffing and instead indulge in fresh seafood caught locally from the Atlantic Ocean. Many local restaurants and seafood markets in the area offer a bounty of shrimp, crab, and more. Picture a Thanksgiving dinner featuring a seafood platter and all the sides served with a lovely coastal breeze and a breathtaking ocean view.

If your family would prefer the traditional Thanksgiving feast, then have no worries; your vacation rental has the perfect kitchen. This fully equipped kitchen lets you and your family cook your dinner at the rental. Instead of dining indoors this Thanksgiving, take advantage of the great outdoors this year and enjoy dinner with stunning beach views.

The Perfect Accommodations

If you’ve never vacationed to Holden Beach for Thanksgiving, you’re in for a treat. Depending on how big your family is will depend on which vacation rental you choose. If you already have your vacation home booked, you’re in for a special treat this year. Our vacation homes will have ample space for the whole family to gather and still not feel on top of each other. The kids will have rooms and a bathroom to share, while the adults will have space. The living areas are large enough for everyone to gather and make new memories.

Family Bonding

A happy teenage boy making bump pass during beach volleyball game with friends for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is all about spending quality time with the family, and Holden Beach is the perfect place. Engage in a family beach volleyball game, build sandcastles, or simply relax on the beach. Take a long walk after your Thanksgiving dinner and let the kids collect seashells to take home. Relaxing after a day full of food is just what the doctor ordered, and we can promise you that you’ll enjoy every moment of this vacation with the family.

Celebrating Thanksgiving at Holden Beach offers your family a unique and memorable experience that may become a tradition for years. Whether indulging in a seafood feast, a traditional Thanksgiving feast, or exploring some coastal activities, there is something for everyone. So, why not swap the conventional Thanksgiving for a coastal Thanksgiving in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals and create unforgettable memories with the family?

September 30, 2023September 30, 2023

Fall Escapes to Holden Beach: Sunsets & Seashells

Holden Beach, located on the coast of North Carolina, is a popular coastal destination known for its beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere. This fall season in Holden Beach can be an excellent time to visit due to milder weather and fewer crowds than summer. When you stay in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals, you’ll experience some of the following things below.

Weather

Gold hued dune grass reflects the late day sun on ocean

Fall in Holden Beach typically brings cooler temperatures than the scorching summer heat. Daytime temperatures can range from the 60s to 70s, making it the perfect month to spend time on the beach. It also rains less in October, making it more likely that your family can enjoy some quality time outdoors rather than indoors.

Beach Activities

While swimming might not be as popular in the fall due to cooler water temperatures, the beach is still an excellent place for walking, shelling, and beachcombing. Make time to build a few sandcastles while playing a few games on the empty beach. Spend the day on the beach with the family, soaking up the rays. The cooler weather can make for comfortable strolls along the shoreline while dipping your feet in the water.

Relax

Get out of the crowd to control the spread of infection on empty beach

One good thing about vacationing in the fall is the quieter atmosphere, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful experience. It’s an excellent time to explore the island or the area or relax on a chair facing the ocean. Walk on the beach during the sunset or explore a new place on your next trip to Holden Beach. Now is your time to unwind and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Booking your next trip to Holden Beach in the fall months is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or life back home. This fall, try one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals; you may fall in love with the beach more this time of the year. Whether you’re a beachcomber, angler, or simply seeking relaxation, Holden Beach has something to offer every traveler.

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!