Feast and Relax this Thanksgiving in Holden Beach

Happy Thanksgiving. Pumpkins and autumn leaves. Family traditions. Vintage illustration for posters, postcards, banners, design elements

Are you looking to break away from the traditional Thanksgiving at home? Look no further, as Holden Beach is the perfect getaway for all those looking to change up their scenery this holiday season. Picture it – listening to the waves crashing in the background as you cook your Thanksgiving Day dinner in your Holden Beach vacation rental. Here’s how you and your family can enjoy your feast and how to relax this Thanksgiving on the island.

A Thanksgiving with a View

Pair of Adirondack chairs with a view of the Atlantic Ocean at Holden Beach, NC

The views are among the best things about vacationing at Holden Beach during the holiday season. Depending on your vacation rental and location, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the views you’ll have. Wake up to the sound of the ocean crashing in the backdrop, or stroll along the beach after a filling Thanksgiving Day dinner. Your Holden Beach vacation rental will surely be the place to enjoy with the family, making new memories together this November.

Enjoy Your Holiday Feast in Your Vacation Rental

We know that Thanksgiving at home can be overwhelming, but it can be just what your soul needs when you’re at the beach. This year, prepare your holiday feast inside your fully-equipped kitchen while listening to the kids play in the background. Who said you had to do the traditional Thanksgiving meal at the beach? That’s right; you don’t need to, and you can add some coastal flavors to your dinner this year. If you’re not up to cooking dinner, check out what some local restaurants will have. This is one way to avoid doing the dishes and prep work while relaxing.

Post-Dinner Beach Activities

Multi-generational family heading to the beach after dinner for a little fun activities

After you’ve had a wonderful and filling dinner, whether in your vacation rental or at a local restaurant, it’s time to have some fun. If you’re staying in a beachfront vacation rental, head out to the sand where the kids can play, and you can sit back and relax. Explore some nature trails or take a long stroll on the beach together. The possibilities are endless when you are on vacation to Holden Beach this Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is about spending time with friends and family and creating those lasting memories. This year, it will all feel different as you celebrate at the beach in your Holden Beach vacation rental. Whether you’re cooking a complete meal in your rental or you decided to dine out, you’ll be sure to relax. So, this Thanksgiving, trade in the hustle and bustle of life at home for a more relaxed one at the beach.

Discover the Best August Activities in Holden Beach

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

Holden Beach, a family-friendly coastal town in North Carolina, is the perfect destination for a summer getaway. As August rolls in, the beach comes alive with many activities catering to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to relax by the ocean or engage in exciting adventures, staying in a Holden Beach vacation rental will be the perfect home base to explore this stunning area. Let’s look at how to discover the best August activities in Holden Beach below.

Beach Days and Water Activities

Children, brothers, and sisters enter the sea on a sunny beach. Sun and sea, splashes of water. Tourism and travel. Happy childhood. Joy and pleasure.

Holden Beach has become a favorite family-friendly beach. Its calm, warm waters and stunning sandy shores make it a perfect day for water activities. Spend your days swimming, sunbathing, or building the best sandcastle with the family. For families seeking more adventure, consider renting a boat or trying your hand at paddleboarding for a different perspective. Fishing enthusiasts can book a charter for deep-sea fishing or cast a line off the pier for a more relaxed experience.

Nature Trails and Parks

August is a great time to explore the natural beauty surrounding our beautiful island. Visit the Holden Beach Nature Park for a scenic hike or bike ride along its well-maintained paths. The park offers stunning views of the marshlands and is an excellent spot for photography and birdwatching. The Green Swamp Preserve nearby provides an opportunity to see unique plant species and wildlife in their natural habitat. We suggest you bring insect repellant to protect against those pesky mosquitos we have in the area.

Family-Friendly Activities

A player on a mini golf course is about to attempt a putt. A family on summer vacation is playing in the evening.

Along with being a great place to get out and explore the great outdoors, Holden Beach has family-friendly attractions. Families love to have a friendly game of mini golf at the nearby courses. Holden Beach also has go-kart racing and arcade games to explore for a fun-filled day. Visit Planet Fun Center for bowling, laser tag, and an indoor playground perfect for the whole family on a rainy day.

August is a fantastic time to visit Holden Beach, with its beautiful weather, exciting activities, and vibrant local culture. A Holden Beach vacation rental is the best home base to experience everything this town offers. So, pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready to discover the best August activities in Holden Beach!

Discover Why Holden Beach is a Hidden Gem

Discover why holden beach is a hidden gem in black color and a light palm shadow on sand

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.

Holden Beach Summer Concert Series

Annual Holden Beach Concert Series

Summer at Holden Beach is only complete with the popular Holden Beach Concert Series we eagerly anticipate each year. For many of us at Holden Beach Vacations, it signifies the official kickoff of summer, and this year is no exception.

Group of cheerful young friends at summer festival, looking at camera.

So, get ready for a fun time at Holden Beach! Dance a little and smile a lot! From September 1, 2024, enjoy a free concert every Sunday at 6:30 pm. The music ranges from beach music to jazz, oldies, and some good old rock ‘n’ roll.

Exciting Summer 2024 Schedule Below:

May 26th – The Main Event Band

June 2nd – Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot

June 9th – Carolina Kool

June 16 – Cat 5

June 23rd – Blackwater Band

June 30th – The Tams

July 7th – The Extraordinaires

July 14th – Continental Divide

July 21st – Chairman of the Board

July 28th – The Embers featuring Craig Woolard

August 4th – Band of Oz

August 11th – Jim Quick and Coastline

August 18th – The Entertainers

August 25th – Too Much Sylvia

September 1st – North Tower

Concerts are held on Sunday nights through September 1, 2024. All concerts are free at the Holden Beach Pavilion, which is open to the public! Now is the perfect time to book your summer vacation in a Holden Beach vacation rental. We can’t wait for you to enjoy your favorite band during your stay!

How to Have the Perfect Family Vacation at Holden Beach

Mother and father with their children standing on the beach with suitcases. Concept of the family vacation and tourism.

Holden Beach is a quaint little town nestled along the southern coast of North Carolina, close to Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Holden Beach Vacations provides the perfect backdrop for a week filled with sun, fun, and relaxation. Staying in an Oceanfront vacation rental will keep your family wanting to return for years. Look below at how your family can have the perfect vacation to Holden Beach.

Family-Friendly Activities

Bikes at the Beach, panorama image

Holden Beach is a beach that holds many different things for people of all ages to enjoy. A favorite among our guests is heading to the beach in the morning just before it gets busy to hunt for shark teeth among the seashells. Another thing you can look forward to if you’re coming in May is the Holden Beach Turtle Watch Program, where you can enjoy some educational talks and maybe get a glimpse of a turtle nest or two. Another great thing you can do in the area is rent a bicycle for everyone in the family and ride along the island for some sightseeing.

Dining Out

Did you know no vacation is complete unless you’ve eaten at a local restaurant? Holden Beach will not disappoint any of our guests, as there are plenty of local places to dine. A family favorite for many guests is Mermaids Island Grill, open daily at 11:30 am. Check out Dock House Seafood or Castaways Raw Bar & Grill if you want something different. There is something for everyone here on the island or close by to pick from.

Making Memories

Relaxed mother and daughter having picnic on beach. African American mother and daughter in casual clothes sitting on blanket, discussing sunset. Family, relaxation, nature concept

To make your family vacation truly memorable, here are a few unique local experiences to try.

  • Sunset Family Picnic: Pack a picnic and head to the island’s west end to watch a stunning sunset while eating dinner.
  • Local Arts & Crafts: Visit a local art gallery or create some crafts in your vacation rental. Create souvenirs to share with friends and family back home and think of how unique they indeed are.
  • Early Morning Beach Walks: One of the benefits of staying in an Oceanfront vacation rental is easy access to the beach. Watch the sunrise over the horizon as you possibly sip on a cup of coffee while enjoying the peaceful sounds of the waves in the background.

Make your stay with us at Holden Beach Vacations nothing short of amazing. Combining a comfortable, inviting vacation rental and the number of activities can make it easy to enjoy every moment. Holden Beach has become the perfect destination for all families looking to create lasting memories in a serene, relaxed setting.

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.

Fall Escapes to Holden Beach: Sunsets & Seashells

wood background with fall color leaves with the words in white that say Fall Escapes to Holden Beach: Sunsets & Seashells in cursive

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.

Top 8 Activities in Holden Beach

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

Three women riding bikes on the beach

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!

Things to Do in Holden Beach in January

Things to Do in Holden Beach in January

Are you and your family coming to Holden Beach in January and are looking for fun things to do? We at Holden Beach Vacations can tell you all about the things that you can do together and make new memories together. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to where the fun is at. Let’s look below at a few things that your family can do while you’re on vacation to Holden Beach below.

Fishing

Things to Do in Holden Beach in January

Even though it may be January, fishing on Holden Beach is still a fun thing that you can do either together as a family or an outing for one of the kids. Some of the places that you can catch some fish are on the beach and do some surf fishing, head over to the Holden Beach Fishing Pier or take a charter fishing trip. The possibilities are endless when you go fishing with the family while on your next vacation to Holden Beach!

Fun Dinner Shows

If your family is into eating dinner and enjoying some fun entertainment, we suggest that you try out a few dinner shows. One of the shows that many families love is Pirates Voyage in Myrtle Beach. Here you can talk like a pirate and sing like a pirate and enjoy fun times together making new memories. Another great one that many families love is at Medieval Times. Eat with your hands and enjoy some pretty amazing food. And while you’re eating, sit back and enjoy the jousting, horseback riding and interact with the show. This can be a fun outing to enjoy and spend time together.

Enjoy the Beach

Things to Do in Holden Beach in January

Spending time at the beach is what every family vacation to Holden Beach is about. Whether you have an oceanfront rental or a sound side rental, you will still have access to the beach. Bring the kids sand toys and let them build them the best sandcastle they can all while getting some much-needed energy out. Walk along the beach and collect seashells to bring home to remember your vacation. Sit back and enjoy the sunset together and just have a good time.

Golf

Golf during January must be one of many of our guests’ favorite things to do. The temperatures are mild, and no need to worry about the extreme heat. You’ll notice that the course may be less crowded, meaning you’ll get a little extra time at each hole. If you are unsure which golf course to choose, have no fear, as we have all the information for you to check out. Are you ready to play a game or two with the family yet?

While there are many other things that you and the family can do while you are on vacation to Holden Beach in January, these are the few we wanted to share. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see your family on your next adventure to the beach!

3 Rainy Day Activities on your Holden Beach Vacation

Transparent umbrella under heavy rain against water drops splash background. Rainy weather concept.

One thing about vacationing at the beach every year is there is bound to be at least one rainy day. Holden Beach is an excellent place to vacation, but yes, rain may happen on some afternoons. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will allow you and your family to enjoy your vacation. Look below at three activities you can do on the next rainy day on Holden Beach.

Play Board Games

Family playing board game at home. Kids play strategic game. Little boy throwing dice. Fun indoor activity for summer vacation. Siblings bond. Educational toys. Friends enjoy game night.

One way to help pass the time when it’s raining on vacation is to play a friendly board game. Bring a game or two from home that may be your favorite or pick one up from a local store. While it may be raining outside, you may forget about going back out after all the fun you’ll have. Our favorite games are Life, Candyland, Snakes & Ladders, and Monopoly. Just have a good time together, making new memories while on vacation.

Make Popcorn & Watch a Movie

Another fun thing you can do while in your vacation rental is make popcorn and watch a movie. If you have younger kids, let them pick out one of their favorite movies and even some snacks from the pantry. Pop some popcorn in the microwave or stovetop for a little more fun. Then just turn the lights down low and enjoy watching a movie together as a family. Think of it like your own little movie theater at the beach!

Bowling

Woman in club for bowling is throwing ball. Neon lights, blacklights for glow of lane, green bowling ball

If your family is a little competitive, why not head to the local bowling alley in Shallotte. Play a game or two of bowling, but they also have a bounce house, an arcade & even laser tag. If you have enough in your family, maybe grab two lanes next to each other and have a friendly game against parents and kids. Don’t worry about getting hungry, as they also have food and drinks available on site. Who will win in your family?

You can do many other activities on the next rainy day, but we had to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which activity was your favorite on the next rainy day!