Holden Beach Archives • Holden Beach Vacations Blog

February 26, 2025February 26, 2025

March Adventures Await in Holden Beach

Happy Asian parents and daughters have delightful time on beach. Little girls bond with their mother and father running jumping and pretending to fly with arms wide open. Family fun under sun.

As winter fades and spring blossoms, March is the perfect time to visit Holden Beach. The cold weather is traded in for warmer temperatures and sunny days by the beach. You’ll quickly discover that this charming coastal town in North Carolina has something for everyone to enjoy. And what better way to experience it all? Stay in a Holden Beach vacation rental, where you can enjoy the comforts of home and breathtaking views. Let’s see what March adventures await you and your family in Holden Beach.

Fishing & Boating on the Intracoastal Waterway

For those who love to fish and enjoy time on the boat, March is the perfect start to excellent inshore and offshore fishing. You can cast a line from the Holden Beach Fishing Pier or charter a deep-sea fishing trip with the family. Some fish you may reel in are flounder, redfish, trout, and so much more. Make it a family adventure that is perfect for all fishing skill levels.

Savor Fresh Seafood at Local Restaurants

If you’ve ever been on vacation to the beach, you know that no vacation is complete unless you indulge in fresh local seafood. March is a great time to enjoy local favorites like shrimp and grits, mahi-mahi, or oysters at local waterfront restaurants. Lou Lou’s Waterfront Restaurant, Provision Company, and Dock House Seafood are some restaurants where you can dine. It’s time for you to enjoy a delicious feast of local seafood on your next trip to Holden Beach.

Relax in Your Holden Beach Vacation Rental

Colorful beach houses on the North Carolina Coast

After a day filled with fun, sun, and adventure, you’ll want to retreat to your Holden Beach vacation rental. Enjoy the comforts of home with a large living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and plenty of bathrooms for the whole family. There will be no reason for fights if you have more than three bathrooms for the kids. Wake up to the sunrise from your balcony or listen to the kids playing on the beach in the background while cooking dinner. The possibilities are endless when you’re enjoying your vacation rental on Holden Beach.

Holden Beach is the perfect spot for a March Getaway filled with the sun, fun, and adventure. It doesn’t matter if you decide to venture on one of these adventures or are hunting for something else; you will find the fun. Are you ready to experience the beach this March, too? Reserve your Holden Beach vacation rental today, and let’s begin planning your unforgettable spring adventure!

January 30, 2025January 30, 2025

Book Direct & Save on Your Vacation Today

Hands holding digital tablet with application booking flight travel search ticket holiday and hotel on website discounted price, concept technology online marketing and promotion.

Are you and your family planning a vacation to Holden Beach this year? We need to tell you why you should #bookdirect with us if you are. Many online third-party vacation rental sites can add a 5%-20% additional fee to your reservation. We know that your vacations are significant and may limit how much you can spend each year. We at Holden Beach Vacations wants to make sure that you get the most out of your money when visiting Holden Beach. The only way that you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation without getting hit with that unexpected fee is by booking direct today!

A Little About #BookDirect Day

On February 5^th, 2025, we celebrate the 8^th Annual Book Direct Day, which was created to help educate vacation rental guests on the benefits of booking directly through an owner or Property Management Company vs. using a Third-Party agency such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VBRO & TripAdvisor.

While you may recognize these big-name companies and their gimmicks in helping you save money, you will soon learn that they will charge you a fee for using their website. Who wants to pay extra just to try and save a little money? Some of the expenses that you may incur when you book with an OTA can range from 5%-20% of the total cost of your vacation rental, which in turn can cost you thousands of dollars extra depending on which rental you choose.

Why You Should Book Direct with Us

When you book direct with Holden Beach Vacations, you will not only speak with one of our vacation specialists who are local to Holden Beach and can give you the best information on the area. We know all the details on each property because we have personally been to them. We can provide you with our recommendations on where to dine, play, shop, and visit businesses in the area. Our office is conveniently in the Holden Beach area, so if any problems arise while you’re on vacation, we’re here to help.

How You Can Book Direct with Holden Beach Vacations

You will find that booking directly with us at Holden Beach Vacations is easy as 1, 2, 3! We encourage all guests to book their vacations directly through our safe & secure website, www.holdenbeachvacations.com or call our office at (800) 842-6949. Rest assured that we will never charge any hidden fees, and we will always provide you with the best available rates on our professionally managed vacation rentals. We don’t want you to have to pay anything extra so that you can use that money to go out to eat or explore the area. We understand that your money is precious, and we can help you see that your vacation to Holden Beach is the best one it can be each year!

Are you ready to plan your vacation today? #BookDirect with Holden Beach Vacations today to have the best-planned vacation year after year!

December 23, 2024December 31, 2024

Plan Your 2025 Family Vacation Today

family building a sandcastle on the beach with blue skies in the background

2025 is practically here and it’s time to plan your 2025 family vacation. The temperatures may be cold right now, but soon it will be perfect vacation weather. Take advantage of planning your next family vacation to Holden Beach early to get the most out of your vacation. It’s always nice to have your Holden Beach vacation planned early so you can enjoy it.

Budget Time

The first thing that you will want to get a handle on is your budget. Planning any vacation can take a lot of time, but if you know what you can afford it will help. With a little bit of budgeting and knowing when you would like to go can take a bit of financial stress away. To get things started, have a family meeting to see what the family would like to do on vacation. For example, if you’d like to do a few activities and dine out, add that to your budget. Purchasing gift certificates before you leave on vacation will help keep you on track. You will have a peace of mind knowing that you can relax while on vacation rather than stressing.

Vacation Rental

One of the many advantages of booking your next family vacation to Holden Beach now is the choices you have to choose from. With many different vacation rentals to choose from you will be able to find the perfect one. No matter what kind of rental you are searching for, we have the right location for you. Here are a few other advantages you have booking with us over a hotel:

Location – We are able to offer you more options in a home than a hotel can. Whether you’d like an oceanfront home, second row home, pet-friendly home, we have them for you. You won’t get the “standard” view as you would from a hotel room.
Kitchens – All of our vacation homes offer you the perfect kitchen for your vacation needs. From small kitchens to large kitchens, you will be able to prepare and cook your meals here for your family.
Size – When you vacation, we understand that size does matter for your family. We wouldn’t want you all to be in one room, so finding a home that can accommodate everyone is just what you will get.
Amenities – Many of our homes have pools, hot tubs, grills, and other fun things for you to do. Vacationing in a home much more pleasant than a hotel room and you still can enjoy the fun.

Plan Your Actitivies

Many families like to plan their activities out before they even book their vacations. Sometimes your plans can change if it rains, so always remember to make a backup plan. There are so many different activities that you and the family can enjoy while you vacation. From heading over to Magic Mountain to enjoying some mini golf, there is something for everyone. And we are about 45 minutes from North Myrtle Beach if you’d like to try a few restaurants there. Being prepared for your vacation can help you and your family enjoy it a little more.

Now that you and your family have come up with a plan, it’s time to book your 2025 vacation. With the ease of booking your vacation online, we want to help make this vacation the best it can be. If you should need any help with booking your vacation, please contact one of our Vacation Specialists today at 800-842-6949. We hope that your family will be able to find the perfect Holden Beach vacation rental today for your next vacation!

November 29, 2024November 30, 2024

Visit Holden Beach During the Holidays

Are you and your family wanting to come to the beach during the month of December for a fun vacation? If you happened to answer yes, then come stay in one of our Pet-Friendly vacation rentals. Staying in one of our vacation rentals next month will help you get in the spirit of Christmas this year. Instead of worrying about how to get your home ready for the holidays, you can instead come to Holden Beach and relax while enjoying these events. Let’s see why coming to Holden Beach during the holidays is a must!

A Parade Just for the Pups

Who doesn’t like bringing their pet on vacation with them? We know of many families wouldn’t consider a vacation unless they brought their best fur friends with them. And bringing them on this trip can be extra special for them as the Sandy Paws Parade happens. On Saturday, December 14, 2024 you can come celebrate the holiday season with your pup on our pet-friendly beaches. Bring your pup out for a short stroll as part of the doggie parade. The parade will begin at Town Hall at 10:00 am and after the parade you and your pup can head over to the Holden Beach Pavilion. Here you will get to have the opportunity to take a picture with Santa and your pups. What a fun way to start out the holiday season with your pets and family!

Handcrafted Gifts

Do you know someone who loves receiving extra special handcrafted gifts? Why not head on over to the Holiday Craft Market on Sunday, December 8, 2024 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Middleton Park Complex. Here you will be able to find some pretty unique gifts that we know someone will love. Handcrafted gifts are always the best to give to someone because it means it came from the heart. Not only are you helping out a local artist, but you are also finding that perfect gift for someone you love. There will be coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies for you to enjoy that will help make this year’s holiday market the best!

It’s a Boat Parade

For those who would like to come see a different kind of parade, we have the perfect one for you. Come to the Southport Marina in Southport on Saturday, December 14, 2024 beginning at 6:00 pm. Here you and the family will be able to see the best holiday parade on the water around town. Be sure to bring a chair, a blanket and find that perfect spot to view along the historic banks of the Cape Fear River. You will see boats of all sizes dressed up in their finest holiday decor and witness the twinkling lights on the water and the sky. Cheer for your favorite decorated boats judged by many and students from the Southport Elementary School Art Class. Come early so you can enjoy one of the many activities that will be happening in town!

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

On Friday, December 13, 2024, at 6:00 pm, bring the family to the Bill Smith Park in Oak Island and hunt for candy canes. Be sure to bring a flashlight because we don’t want to have a Flashlight Candy Cane hunt without one. What fun would that be if you couldn’t find any? Here you will be able to find candy canes, green and red eggs on the softball field. And to help you warm up a bit after spending some time to find the goodies, there will be hot chocolate and even a visit with Santa. This can be a perfect photo opportunity for all those who don’t want to wait in the line for Santa at the mall.

While there are many other holiday activities happening in the month of December, we thought these might help with your decision. If you are still searching for that perfect pet-friendly vacation rental, we still have availabilities. We can’t wait to see you and your family this December as you celebrate the holidays in Holden Beach!

September 28, 2024September 30, 2024

Don’t Miss These Fun Events Happening in October

Are you and your family taking a vacation to the Southern Coast of North Carolina in October? If the answer is yes, then we have to tell you about the fun events that are happening locally. Staying in one of our Condo rentals will keep you and your family close to where the fun is happening. Let’s look below at some of the fun events that are happening during the month of October on the coast.

43^rd Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival

39th Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival

The North Carolina Oyster Festival is well known to many who visit the area during the fall months. This is the 43^rd year that the festival has been going on and you won’t want to miss it this year. The North Carolina Oyster Festival is being hosted in Ocean Isle Beach which is just a short drive from Holden Beach on October 19^th & 20^th, 2024. There will be plenty of things that everyone in the family can enjoy such as arts & crafts, live entertainment and of course the one reason to visit, oysters. This is a festival that you will want to return to year after year for the amazing things you can enjoy at the 43^rd Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival!

NC Festival by the Sea

One of the best events that happen along the coast of North Carolina is the NC Festival by the Sea. This is held every October and will be held on October 26^th and 27^th, 2024. This year, you’ll get to see some amazing art done by local craftsmen across a variety of different media, live entertainment, food vendors, and more. This will have so much for the whole family to enjoy and will make you want to return for years. Admission and parking are free for this event and will be located on Jordan Blvd in Holden Beach, NC.

Fun Day at the 17th Annual Sunset at Sunset Festival

Sunset Beach is hosting their very own fall festival this year called “Sunset at Sunset Festival”. This is a community block party with many local vendors and locals who like to celebrate fall at the beach. You can get several things from this festival from food to live music there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Plus you will be able to get several different arts & crafts from local vendors to give as a gift or you can keep them to remember this fun trip. This even will be happening on October 5^th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Don’t miss this fun day spending it with friends and family.

No matter what kind of event you’re looking for on your next family vacation, we can tell you these events above you won’t want to miss. If you haven’t booked your next family vacation to Holden Beach this October, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you make new memories together by joining in the fun events happening locally!

June 27, 2024June 27, 2024

Discover Why Holden Beach is a Hidden Gem

It’s no secret that many families love to vacation on Holden Beach because of its beaches and tranquility, which often fly under the radar. This charming beach town perfectly combines relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal vacation spot. Our oceanfront vacation rentals are the ultimate way to fully experience the unique charm of this hidden gem in Brunswick County.

Uncrowded Beaches and Natural Beauty

Panoramic view looking down the beach during the sunrise of holden beach

One of the most appealing aspects of Holden Beach is its beautiful, uncrowded beaches. Unlike the other commercialized beaches in North Carolina, Holden Beach offers a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. The sun, sand, and gentle waves provide a stunning backdrop for relaxing, swimming, and beachcombing. The sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking and an essential experience for all visitors.

Outdoor Activities for All

Building storing kayaks and canoes. Life jackets are hanging behind the boats.

Holden Beach is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream paradise. The calm waters are a local favorite for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The nearby Intracoastal Waterway offers additional opportunities for boating and exploring. Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife and the chance to see a dolphin in the ocean. Many parks and trails provide scenic views that are perfect for hiking or biking, knowing there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Local Attractions and Dining

Plate of crab legs and shrimp ready to eat. There are also slices of lemon, butter, and cocktail sauce.

While Holden Beach is known for its natural beauty, it also boasts a variety of local attractions and dining options. The small-town charm has many locally owned shops and restaurants that line the streets. The dining options highlight fresh seafood; many restaurants thrive on locally sourced dishes. Don’t miss trying a classic North Carolina shrimp boil or fresh oysters. Be sure to check out nearby towns to see what charm they have for exploring.

Holden Beach truly is a hidden gem, offering unique and unforgettable vacations. From the beaches to the outdoor activities and dining, there’s something for everyone to love. Make the most of your visit by staying in an oceanfront vacation rental, and discover the magic of this coastal paradise for yourself.

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?