Holden Beach Archives • Holden Beach Vacations Blog

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.

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!

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.