Holden Beach Archives • Holden Beach Vacations Blog

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!

November 29, 2022November 30, 2022

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 Friday, December 2, 2022 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 Saturday, December 3, 2022 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at Silver Coast Winery. 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 10, 2022 beginning at 7:00 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 Saturday, December 10, 2022 bring the family to the Bill Smith Park in Southport 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!

October 31, 2022October 31, 2022

Spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach This Year

Making new holiday traditions with the family are always special but spending Thanksgiving Day in Holden Beach can be your new tradition this year. The first of November marks the start of the holiday season, where everyone in the family makes their Thanksgiving Day plans. They try to figure out if it should be at someone in the family’s home or elsewhere. Instead of trying to figure it out, make plans to spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach this year at your oceanfront vacation rental. There are plenty of things for you and your family to do while you vacation here for the holidays. Let’s look at why you must spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach this year.

Quality Time

Spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach This Year

When you think of Thanksgiving, you think of spending as much quality time with your friends and family. A lot of families have made coming to Holden Beach a tradition each year for Thanksgiving because if you are staying in one of our vacation rentals, there will be plenty of space for everyone. Staying at home can be stressful because many of us want our home to be perfect, meaning we stress over everything. But when you spend a holiday in Holden Beach, it’s more relaxing and you will want to spend as much time with the whole family. Spend the day cooking in your vacation rental or go out to eat instead. It will be totally up to you as how you want to spend your day.

Fall Weather

Fall will have officially made its way to Holden Beach and we have to say that the temperature will make enjoying the beach better. While the weather has a little chill to the air, it’s still much warmer than living up north. One of the most amazing times to visit Holden Beach is during the fall months. The weather during the day seems to warm up for you and your family to get plenty of sunshine and play in the sand. And at night the air has a small chill to it, but not so much to where you wouldn’t want to take a walk on the beach with a loved one. This is the perfect time of the year to come celebrate Thanksgiving with your friends and family.

Beautiful Views

Even during the off-season, Holden Beach is nothing short of beauty. Spending Thanksgiving watching the waves roll in and out from your oceanfront vacation rental is what everyone dreams of. You may happen to see some fishing boats off in the distance or people taking pictures on the beach for their Christmas cards. With 12 miles of beach and beauty, how could you not want to vacation here? Take a stroll along the beach or have your family’s holiday pictures taken out on the beach. There is absolutely a ton of things that you can enjoy while you vacation here.

There are many other reasons why you should spend Thanksgiving here in Holden Beach, but there are just a few we thought you would enjoy. If you and your family want to spend Thanksgiving here, please look at our oceanfront vacation rental inventory today. You may be surprised to find the perfect home to rent for the holiday weekend!

September 29, 2022September 29, 2022

Don’t Miss the 42nd 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 didn’t think you could have any more fun, there will be enough things for you 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 that you will make coming to this event and Holden Beach a yearly vacation!

August 31, 2022August 31, 2022

Book your Winter Vacation to the Beach Today!

It may seem like booking your winter vacation this early is silly, but school will be back in session and before you know it winter will be here. You can give yourself a nice gold star if you go ahead and book that winter family vacation now before you forget. We have plenty of winter rentals that you will want to stay in for a week or two.

Enjoy Beach Life in the Winter

Book your Winter Vacation to the Beach Today!

For those of you who often escape to a warmer climate, consider Holden Beach as a place to come relax at. Sitting on the beach in a beach chair with the warm sun on you is just what you need rather than shoveling snow this winter. We can provide you with rentals that have some of the top-notch amenities but for a fraction of the in-season price. Who wouldn’t want to save some money for your winter vacation?

Play a Round of Golf or Two

We fully understand the desire to want to escape the cold, snow and ice just to get a week at the beach. Come visit Holden Beach this winter and enjoy the golf course, shopping and more. Vacationing at the beach during the winter can be fun for everyone and you won’t have to deal with the summer crowds. And if you are thinking of leaving the north to move to the south, we have plenty of homes for sale that one of our agents can show you. This vacation can be just a highlight of what our area has to offer you year round.

No matter what the reason is for coming to visit Holden Beach, we have the perfect vacation rentals for you. They each have their own style and amenities such as fireplaces, pools, Internet and Flat Screen TVs. We at Holden Beach Vacations promise you that winter can’t get any better than coming to the beach for a getaway. You are going to love it here and may not want to leave to go back home to the cold. Take a quick peek at what is available for the time you’d like to visit.

June 28, 2022June 28, 2022

Nightlife on Holden Beach

Shot of a group of people toasting with their drinks at a nightclub

Do you have a vacation planned to Holden Beach, and you’re looking to have a kid-free night? Then look no further as we have found several places that you won’t want to miss. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will keep you close to the fun. Let’s look below at our picks for the nightlife here on Holden Beach.

Castaways Raw Bar & Grill

Cocktails serves on bar counter prepared with gin, rosemary, papper and orange juice - Drink, nightlife, lifestyle concept - Focus on top crystal glass

Castaways Raw Bar & Grill is in the heart of Holden Beach, right across the street from the ocean. Here you’ll find a comfy seat with a view of the ocean and some delicious food & drinks. You’ll find items on the menu: Beer, Cheese Nachos, Fresh Seafood, Cheeseburgers, and more. Plus, listen to the live music they have, watch a game on the big screen or just sit back and relax. What a great way to “Get Lost” while on vacation for a kid-free night!

Mermaid’s Island Grill

Another great spot-on Holden Beach is Mermaid’s Island Grill. You’ll find them just under the Holden Beach Bridge, and you won’t be bored with the amount of fun they have to offer. With a full bar, live music, a tropical drink in your hand, and karaoke…there is something for everyone. Mermaid’s Island Grill has some great items on the menu, including Firecracker Shrimp, Gyro Chicken, Burgers & more. Think of the fun you’ll have on your night out in town.

Inlet View Bar & Grill

Young couple enjoying beer and sunset in a beach bar

Inlet View Bar & Grill is in nearby town Shallotte and has breathtaking waterway views. During the summer, they have live entertainment on Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights for you to enjoy. Sit down, order some food, and relax as you take in the views of the water while listening to some great tunes. Make new memories with your loved ones this summer at Inlet View Bar & Grill!

While the nightlife on Holden Beach isn’t like it would be in nearby towns, it’s the perfect vacation place for all. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay with us in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear what you did on your next vacation to the island.

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!

January 31, 2022January 31, 2022

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 2^nd, 2022, we celebrate the 5^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!

October 29, 2021October 29, 2021

Spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach this Year

Happy Thanksgiving saying in white lettering, teal background and colorful leaves

Are you and your family looking to escape life at home this holiday season? If you are, let us share with you why you need to spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach this year. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will allow you and your family to spend more time together. Let’s look below at how you and your family can enjoy your holiday week here in Holden Beach.

Room for Everyone

One of the best benefits of staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals is knowing there is room for everyone. We have large enough homes to bring the whole family, including the grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. All of our homes have full kitchens that, if you choose to cook Thanksgiving Dinner at your vacation rental, you can. From families with pools to staying in an oceanfront room, we have just the right vacation home for you to stay in.

Go Out for Dinner

Two parents put decorated apples, stuffed turkey on table holiday dinner family reunion living room indoors

Since you will be on vacation, then instead of worrying about cooking Thanksgiving Day dinner this year, let someone else do the cooking for you. Many local restaurants in Holden Beach and nearby towns will be hosting their own Thanksgiving Day dinners. Some of those restaurants are The Boundary House in Calabash, Ports of Call in Southport and Causeway Gourmet will serve Thanksgiving Dinner in the area. Just think of not having to clean up after Thanksgiving Dinner this year.

Relax & Enjoy

Another great reason you should spend Thanksgiving in Holden Beach this year is to relax and enjoy your vacation. The beaches will have plenty of space for you and your family to go and enjoy the sand. While you can’t get into the water because it will be a little too chilly for you, the weather will be the perfect temp for you to get a little sun. Be sure to bring still your umbrellas, beach chairs, sunblock, and toys for the kids to build their sandcastles for the day. Relax back at your vacation rental by watching a few movies or playing some board games together. The options are endless when you visit Holden Beach for Thanksgiving this year.

While there are many other reasons why you should take your vacation to Holden Beach this Thanksgiving, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your Thanksgiving Day vacation yet, give us a call today. We can’t wait to hear about your memories that you have made this holiday season with us at Holden Beach Vacations!

June 27, 2021June 27, 2021

Fun Things to Do this 4th of July on your Holden Beach Vacation

Can you believe that the 4^th of July is just around the corner? And we know that you must be getting excited to spend time at the beach. This year many of the fun things are coming back so your family can enjoy your vacation. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will keep your family close to the action. Let’s look below at what fun things are happening around the area this 4^th of July.

NC 4^th of July Festival & Fireworks

people sitting on beach watching fireworks being set off pier

The NC 4^th of July Festival & Fireworks are typically held in Southport, NC, but many of the events will be happening on Oak Island this year. Start the 4-day festival head on over to Oak Island to celebrate their Beach Day on July 1^st. This will include a full day of games, food, and entertainment that begins at 8:00 am. Fireworks will start at 9:00 pm over at the Oak Island Pier, where everyone will be able to social distance. On Saturday and Sunday, you can experience the Red, White & Blue Car Show, a tradition for many to attend, and many other things that day. The Fireworks display will conclude a wonderful Holliday weekend from the Oak Island pier and be seen for miles, and you don’t want to miss that.

Ocean Isle Beach 4^th of July Parade

Another fun event that is happening nearby is the 4^th of July Parade at nearby Ocean Isle Beach. Beginning at 3:00 pm, you’ll be able to see the fun decorated golf carts, cars, bikes, and more head down past the Coastal Museum and down 2^nd Street. This is a tradition that many families love to sit back and watch. The Ocean Isle Beach fireworks display on July 6^th this year. This is a free event that your family can attend and think of the fun you’ll have to spend with the ones you love.

Day at the Beach

If you’re looking for something to do a little more low-key, then head to the beach for the day. Pack the cooler full of drinks, water, and snacks for everyone to enjoy. Pack lunch for the day, and be sure to have enough snacks, sunscreen, and beach toys for everyone. Hunt the sand for the perfect spot, set up the umbrella, beach chairs, and towels. Then just sit back and relax as you allow the kids to play in the sand and on the shoreline. Just have a good time spending your time together on this 4^th of July trip to Holden Beach this year!

While there are many other fun things that you can do this 4^th of July in the area, we wanted to share these with you. Book your next trip to stay with us in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals today. We can’t wait to hear all about your trip and how you spent your 4^th of July with family!