Best Things To Do In Holden Beach

Holden Beach isn't a boardwalk town, and that's the point. There's no highrise strip, no mini-golf megaplex on every corner — just a wide, quiet beach and a slower pace. Here's how to fill a week without ever feeling like you're checking boxes.

Start with the beach itself

Holden Beach runs roughly 8 miles end to end, and the west end tends to be quieter than the areas near the bridge. Early morning is the best time for shelling, especially after a full moon tide.

Get on the water

Whether it's a sunset cruise, a few hours inshore fishing the marsh, or renting a pontoon for the day, the Intracoastal Waterway side of the island is where a lot of the best memories get made. See our Boating and Fishing guides for launch points and rental options.

Slow down on a golf cart

Golf carts are part of daily life here. Cruising the island at golf-cart speed, ice cream in hand, is a Holden Beach rite of passage — see our Golf Cart Rules guide before you rent one.

Eat where the locals eat

Skip the chains. Our restaurant guide covers Holden Beach favorites plus a few worth the short drive to Shallotte and Ocean Isle Beach.

Rainy day? No problem

Check our Family Activities guide for the best rainy-day backup plans in Brunswick County.