When planning a vacation, there’s a lot of research involved. You need to find a destination that has all the activities you want to enjoy and decide where you want to stay. If you’re looking for a unique island getaway that effortlessly blends relaxation and adventure, look no further than Bald Head Island. The charming North Carolina island is perfect for everyone from solo travelers to families looking to enjoy the slower pace of life. If some of your must-do activities take place on or near the water, you also need to spend some time researching Bald Head Island tides.
Before setting off for the shoreline from your Munroe Properties rental, it’s important that you know where the water level is. While it may not seem like it, changing tides can greatly impact everything from fishing to looking for shells on the shoreline. One of the best ways to see when Bald Head Island will be experiencing high and low tides is by looking at a tide chart. Keep reading to learn more about how rising and falling waters can impact your Bald Head Island activities.
1. Beach Space Changes Throughout the Day
Changes in water levels can significantly affect the amount of beach space available. For example, at high tide, sections of both South and East Beach can become much narrower. This means less room for lounging or long shoreline walks.
2. Shelling Is Better at Low Tide
If you are hoping to look for shells and other ocean treasures, wait for low tide. As the water recedes, more shell beds and sandbars emerge, where shells, sea glass, and other finds can be spotted. We recommend heading to East Beach during low tide to see what you can spot.
3. Fishing Success Depends on Tide Changes
While it may not seem like it, changing waters can impact how successful your fishing trip is. If you’re looking to go surf fishing, you want to cast your line around tide transitions. The moving water brings baitfish closer to creek mouths and shore.
4. Paddling Can Be Easier or Harder
One of the best ways to explore Bald Head Island’s beauty is from the water. However, creeks, marshes, and protected paddle routes are very much tide-dependent. If the water is too low, some areas become too shallow to navigate. On the other hand, stronger currents near tide changes can make paddling on a rental from Riverside Outdoor Recreation more difficult.
Plan Your Perfect Bald Head Island Vacation with Munroe Properties
Between researching how changing tides can affect Bald Head Island activities, making travel arrangements, and booking your rental from Munroe Properties, your Bald Head Island vacation will be here before you know it. By turning to us for your vacation rental needs, you’ll have your pick of some of the best places to stay on the island. Whether looking for an oceanfront rental or something tucked away in the lush maritime forest, our inventory has it all.
Because all of our Bald Head Island rental homes have all the comforts of home, you’ll have everything you need to rest and unwind after a day of fun. Let our local team help you find your perfect fit; call 910-363-4955 to speak with someone today.
Thanks to its coastal location, it should come as no surprise that some of the best things to do on a Bald Head Island vacation take place on or near the water. The lineup of aquatic activities you can enjoy ranges from a relaxing beach day to a thrilling jet ski ride. If you’re looking for an activity that combines both relaxation and adventure, plan a Bald Head Island fishing trip with Munroe Properties. After enjoying a delicious meal in your rental’s fully equipped kitchen, set off to see who can reel in the biggest catch of the day.
Why Bald Head Island Is a Great Fishing Destination
There are a number of reasons why Bald Head Island is a great place for fishing. The island provides anglers with access to surf, creek, marsh, river, and offshore fishing. Enjoy easy access to both the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean, where you can cast your line for a great variety of fish depending on the season.
Depending on the time of year, the waters that surround Bald Head Island are home to a wide array of species. Common ones include red and black drum, flounder, Spanish mackerel, and speckled trout.
Book Your Spot with a Local Charter
One of the best ways to increase your chance of reeling in a big one is by booking your spot with a local Bald Head Island fishing charter. Two of the top options include Impulsive Charters and Oak Island Fishing Charters. Impulsive Charters offers nearshore, offshore, and Gulf Stream trips, and Oak Island Fishing Charters can pick you up directly from the Bald Head Island ferry docks.
Other Types of Fishing to Enjoy
You can cast your line without having to leave dry land. Bald Head Island is a great place to go surf fishing. You have a few different places to cast from.
- Beach areas near creek mouths are great in the early morning or at sunset.
- South Beach access points are convenient for guests staying at our oceanfront rentals.
- East Beach near the Point is known for changing channels and incoming tide action.
- If hoping to catch drum or seasonal Spanish mackerel, head to Cape Fear Point and the Shoals area.
Keep in mind that fishing the incoming tide around sandbars and cuts often produces the best results.
Book an Unforgettable Escape to Bald Head Island
After a day of casting your line fishing, there’s nothing better than unwinding in the comfort of your Bald Head Island rental from Munroe Properties. Our well-appointed rentals on Bald Head Island have all the comforts of home, like fully equipped kitchens and cozy living areas. Several of our vacation homes are also only a short walk away from the water, which makes going fishing a breeze. Call 910-363-4955 to learn more about our Bald Head Island rental homes.
Bald Head Island is not only home to a wealth of adventure but also endless things to see on your adventures. This includes an array of wildlife that call the North Carolina island home, including turtles. Arguably, the most popular residents on Bald Head Island, these animals are a treat to see. However, it’s important you have an understanding of what to do if you see one. To help you have a turtle encounter that’s safe for both you and the turtle, the Munroe Properties team has put together this guide.
What Types of Turtles Are Found on Bald Head Island?
There are several different species that live or nest around the island, including green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. While loggerheads are the most common, there’s still a chance you might see the others offshore or nesting. Take some time to learn about the animals you may spot and how to differentiate them.
Conservation Efforts and How to Protect Turtles
Nesting season in North Carolina generally runs from May through October, with June and July being peak nesting. During a nesting cycle, female turtles come out of the water at night and dig a nest above the high-tide line. One turtle can lay around 100 eggs, which will incubate for 55 to 65 days. Once hatched, the baby turtles will make their journey to the ocean.
During nesting season, Bald Head Island Conservancy members can go on a turtle walk, where they will learn about the group’s conservation program. After, they will head to the beach to see if they spot any nesting or hatching activity.
Conservation Efforts and How to Protect Turtles
Bald Head Island Conservancy is a leader in monitoring, research, and nest protection efforts on the island. Their program includes nightly patrols during nesting season, marking and protecting nests, tracking and tagging, and hosting education programs.
Artificial light is one of the biggest threats to hatchlings as it can disorient them away from the ocean. This is why doing something as easy as turning off beachfront lights at night is such an easy way to help. If you’re going to be out on the beach after the sun goes down, use a red flashlight or put a red sticker on your phone. While white light can disorient turtles, they can’t see red light.
Other ways you can help include:
- Filling in holes on the beach
- Packing up your beach gear and not leaving it on the shoreline overnight
- Using reusable shopping bags
- Staying off marked nesting areas
- Keeping a respectful distance from any turtle you come upon
Enjoy Mother Nature’s Beauty on a Bald Head Island Vacation
Whether out looking for turtles or enjoying a peaceful day kayaking, there are endless ways to enjoy breathtaking beauty on a North Carolina vacation to Bald Head Island. Surround yourself in stunning scenery by renting from Munroe Properties. Our inventory of well-appointed vacation rentals on Bald Head Island includes homes with ocean views and rentals found in the maritime forest. To learn more about the amenities found at our Bald Head Island rentals, call 910-363-4955.
With the holiday season and winter break in the rearview, countless families are starting to plan their next unforgettable vacation. However, you don’t have to wait for school to be out for the summer to enjoy an adventure-filled getaway. Spring break is the perfect time to pack your bags and plan a Bald Head Island vacation with Munroe Properties. Our well-appointed vacation rentals are surrounded by family-friendly activities and attractions. Keep reading to learn more about what to do on a Bald Head Island spring break escape.
9 Things to Do on Your North Carolina Spring Break Trip
Bald Head Island is perfect for a spring break that’s equal parts relaxing and adventurous.
- Enjoy a picturesque spring day on the shores of East Beach and South Beach. Both of these spots are ideal for shelling and sunrise walks.
- Sneak in a bit of learning by going tide pooling. Spring low tides reveal tiny marine life, starfish, and crabs.
- Go for a walk through a maritime forest. Walk trails like Kent Mitchell Trail and enjoy views like old-growth live oaks and palmettos.
- See how many different types of birds you can spot at the Bald Head Woods Preserve. This spot is known for being home to ospreys, herons, and egrets.
- Rent kayaks from Coastal Urge, which also offers guided outings, and go exploring. Paddle through calm creeks and estuaries that are filled with an array of wildlife.
- Visit Old Baldy Lighthouse. Depending on when you visit, you might be able to climb to the top of the lighthouse, where you can enjoy panoramic views.
- Join a guided nature tour. The Bald Head Island Conservancy is known for offering an array of outings that appeal to families and first-time visitors.
- Go for a bike ride on rentals from Riverside Outdoor Recreation. Because there are no cars allowed on the island, biking is a fun, easy, and safe way to explore.
- Create your own scavenger hunt. Make a list of must-see Bald Head Island spots and attractions, and break up into two teams; winners get to pick the movie that night.
Plan a Family-Approved Vacation to Bald Head Island
Before you spend too much time researching what to do on a Bald Head Island spring break vacation, take some time to research your perfect home base. At Munroe Properties, we work to bring you the best places to stay on Bald Head Island. Our inventory of North Carolina rentals features homes in an array of sizes, which means we have something for groups big and small.
Because all of our rentals have the comforts of home, you can easily enjoy a quiet night in. Cook dinner together before digging in around the dining table. When you’re done, settle in to watch your family’s favorite movie in the cozy living room.
Our team is here to help you find your perfect Bald Head Island rental home. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with someone today.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, nature-rich escape, Bald Head Island needs to be at the top of your list. This charming island is one of those quietly magical places where time slows down. However, that doesn’t mean your stay at a rental from Munroe Properties will be boring. In addition to checking out popular North Carolina attractions, there are also plenty of unique things to do on Bald Head Island.
A Guide to Off-the-Beaten Path Activities and Attractions
Staying at one of our Bald Head Island rentals means adventure is all around you. Between visiting popular attractions and discovering must-try activities, check out some of these more unique adventures.
- Go for a sunrise walk in the maritime forest. Listen to owls settling down and deer passing by.
- Found along the island’s southern edges is a cluster of ancient, wind-shaped oaks known unofficially as the Ghost Oaks. This area has a mystical vibe that needs to be seen.
- Go beachcombing for bioluminescent plankton. On warm summer nights, our shorelines sometimes glow from these little creatures. If you drag your feet gently through the shrug, you can see their blue streaks.
- Join an unofficial sand-spiral or driftwood sculpture session. The island is home to a quiet community of beach artists who create temporary works of art. You might stumble upon them and can join in.
- Go stargazing. Head to West Beach, which is away from the lighthouse area, and you can enjoy a large open expanse of sand perfect for stargazing.
One of the best ways to discover unique activities and attractions is by asking the locals! When grabbing a cup of coffee or enjoying a bit of shopping, ask the employees what they would recommend doing that might be a bit off the beaten path.
See What Fun You Can Find on Your Bald Head Island Vacation
One of the best things about staying at a rental from Munroe Properties is that adventure is all around you. From popular activities to more unique things to do, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your days on Bald Head Island, North Carolina.
In order to have as much fun as possible, you need a relaxing place to stay where you can recharge your batteries. You’ll get exactly that when you reserve one of our North Carolina rentals. Our inventory of Bald Head Island vacation homes features well-appointed rentals that have everything you need to feel right at home. Enjoy a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious living room, and peaceful bedroom. Many of our rentals also include front porches or back decks, ideal for sipping coffee or a glass of wine. Call 910-363-4955 to learn more about our vacation rentals on Bald Head Island and which one is right for you.
If you’re looking to kick off summer with a bang, plan an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend getaway to Bald Head Island. This charming barrier island is the ideal place to enjoy a summer vacation in North Carolina. Planning your trip for the beginning of the season means you can enjoy all there is to do and see without the large crowds that come later.
The first step in planning your Memorial Day vacation is to reserve your vacation rental from Munroe Properties. Our well-appointed rental homes have everything you need to feel at home on your Bald Head Island vacation. At the same time, you’ll want to reserve your spot on the ferry, which is the most popular way to reach the island. Once the important logistics are taken care of, turn your attention to planning what adventures you want to enjoy during your visit. Keep reading to learn more about some of our favorites.
5 Things to Do on Bald Head Island over Memorial Day Weekend
Because of Bald Head Island’s idyllic weather, you can enjoy popular summer activities even at the end of May!
- Plan a day at the beach. Find a spot on the island’s 14 miles of pristine beaches to spread your towel. Build sandcastles, go swimming, or see what treasures you can find along the shoreline. Take your beach day up a notch with rentals from Coastal Urge.
- Go paddling along local waterways on a kayak from Riverside Adventure Company. You can rent a kayak and captain your own voyage or sign up for a guided tour that departs from Marina Park.
- Get “lost” in nature and explore the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve. The natural attraction is home to four paths of varying lengths, all surrounding you with Mother Nature’s beauty.
- Treat yourself to a bit of retail therapy. Wander in and out of local shops like Bald Head Blues and Island Passage. Be sure to keep your eyes out for holiday weekend sales!
- Book your spot on a sightseeing tour with Southport Water Tours. Depart from nearby Southport on The Sally Ann and sail along the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Intracoastal waterway.
Have Fun at Your Bald Head Island Rental
When planning your summer vacation in Bald Head Island, North Carolina, don’t forget about the things you can do at your rental. Choosing to rent from Munroe Properties means your rental is more than just a place to sleep; it’s truly your home away from home. Have a barbecue at your rental with all your favorite summer dishes, or reserve a home with a pool and go for a midnight swim.
Start planning your Memorial Day weekend getaway by browsing our inventory of rental homes today! Our team of local experts is here to help you find your perfect fit. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with someone today.
One of the best ways to recharge your batteries is with a day at the beach. Take your day on the sandy shoreline up a notch by planning an unforgettable vacation to Bald Head Island, located off North Carolina’s coast. To help make planning your Bald Head Island beach day a breeze, the Munroe Properties team has compiled a list of our favorite sandy spots and what to do at them.
Where to Lay Your Towel
With 14 miles of pristine beaches, there are plenty of sandy spots to choose from on Bald Head Island. For calmer waters, check out South Beach. There’s also East Beach, where the water is known for producing waves that are perfect for several activities. A third option is West Beach, where the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Fear River meet.
No matter which spot you choose, it’s important you follow all beach safety rules and guidelines. This includes knowing how to identify a rip current and what to do if caught in one. You also need to level any sandcastles you build and cover up holes.
What to Do on Your Beach Day
There are plenty of things to do no matter which beach you choose to lay your towel out on, including swimming and making sandcastles. Explore the waters surrounding Bald Head Island on a kayak or paddleboard from Riverside Adventure Company. The local shop also offers beach chairs and umbrellas to take your relaxation up a notch. Walk along the shoreline looking for unique shells, driftwood, and other treasures that wash ashore. This activity is best enjoyed at low tide. Explore some of the tours and excursions that Bald Head Island Conservancy offers, like Beach Patrol Ride Along and Family Beach Fishing.
Reserve an Oceanfront Rental for Your North Carolina Getaway
Enjoying stunning beach views is easy when you reserve an oceanfront vacation rental from Munroe Properties. These luxurious rentals offer stunning views to all who stay at them. Look for a rental with a back porch or deck, perfect for watching a sunrise or sunset. Our team of local experts can help you browse through our inventory of well-appointed Bald Head Island vacation rentals to find the one that best fits your budget, needs, and wants. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with someone today!
There are two things you never have to worry about on a Bald Head Island vacation: becoming bored or going hungry. This small island off North Carolina’s coast is filled with endless adventure, including romantic things to do, memorable outdoor activities, and more. With so many things to check out, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Take a break from cooking at your Munroe Properties rental and dine out at some of the delicious places to eat on Bald Head Island.
7 Restaurants on Bald Head Island to Try
Whether you are looking for a place to enjoy a romantic date night or something more laidback, the restaurants on Bald Head Island have you covered! Remember that some spots may be open seasonally, so check their websites for the most up-to-date information.
- For a delicious start to your day, head to Boat House, known for thoughtfully crafted sweet and savory dishes. Found steps from the ferry, this is an excellent place to dine right when you arrive or before you leave Bald Head Island.
- Jailhouse Provisions is a go-to option for American fare. Here, you’ll find a menu filled with classics like a tuna melt, seafood baskets, and more. There’s also a range of craft cocktails to choose from.
- If your rental includes access to Bald Head Island Club, be sure to try some of the incredible restaurants found there. Horizons is a casual Southern and seafood restaurant with panoramic views, while the Palms is a Barbadian-inspired Gastro pub.
- Shoals Club, the other beach club on the island, is home to its fair share of tasty dining. There’s AQUA, which is known for its seafood-centric cuisine, as well as Latitudes, the indoor lounge and al fresco dining deck.
- Will O’ The Wisp, also known as The Wisp, is the perfect spot if you’re craving pizza and a drink. Sip on a refreshing cocktail while deciding which of their signature pizzas you feel like trying.
- Another delicious pizza option is Copper’s Wood-Fired Kitchen, found inside the Maritime Market. Enjoy a hot and cheesy pizza cooked inside a 900-degree wood-fired oven before doing your grocery shopping.
- If you’re visiting the BHI Conservancy campus and get hungry, stop by Mike’s Bites. The take-out window offers sandwiches, Italian ice, hot dogs, and other snacks.
Find Everything You Need for the Perfect Bald Head Island Vacation
Despite its small size, Bald Head Island has everything you could ever need or want from a vacation destination. There are plenty of delicious places to eat, charming shops, and endless adventures. There are also plenty of well-appointed vacation rentals to choose from, courtesy of Munroe Properties. Our Bald Head Island rentals feature all the comforts of home and are located all over the island. To learn more about a specific property, call 910-363-4955.
Arguably, one of the most romantic days of the year is Valentine’s Day. This year, make your celebrations extra special by planning a trip for two to Bald Head Island. This intimate North Carolina island is the perfect destination for your romantic getaway. The first step in planning your unforgettable getaway is reserving your rental from Munroe Properties.
Our Bald Head Island rental homes give you a relaxing place to unwind and truly spend quality time together. The best part is no matter which of our rentals you reserve, you’re surrounded by things to do that’ll bring you closer as a couple. Keep reading for some of our favorite things to do on a Valentine’s Day vacation.
Enjoy a Romantic Meal
Planning a romantic meal doesn’t always mean going to a five-star restaurant and getting all dressed up. While there are restaurants on Bald Head Island known for being great date night spots, including the ones found at Shoals Club or BHI Club, sometimes something more intimate is better. Create your own restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your rental. Pack a picnic basket filled with all your favorites and head to the beach or one of the local parks.
Recreate Your First Date
If you’re feeling a bit sentimental, take a step back in time and recreate your first date. If your first date included meeting up for drinks, head to Bald Head Bottle or Will O’ the Wisp. Another classic option is going to the movies. While there’s no movie theater on Bald Head Island, you can recreate the movie-going experience in the comfort of your vacation rental.
Check Out Other Romantic Adventures
Because Bald Head Island has a more intimate feel, even the smallest things feel more romantic. Go for a sunset stroll along the shoreline, or enjoy an afternoon of kayaking on a rental from Riverside Adventure Company. Enjoy a bit of pampering at Island Retreat Spa, which has incredible couples packages. If you’re a craft-loving couple, bring along supplies to make a scrapbook of your love story.
Reconnect on a Bald Head Island Getaway for Two
Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it. If you’re looking to plan a romantic getaway to Bald Head Island, North Carolina, now’s the time! Before turning your attention to creating a memorable itinerary, reserve your rental from Munroe Properties. Our well-appointed vacation homes are found all over the island. Whether you’re craving ocean views or something surrounded by lush flora, we have the perfect home for you. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with a local team member to learn more.
Found on the east side of the Cape Fear River, Bald Head Island is the perfect destination for anyone looking to leave the stress of life behind. However, unlike some islands, no bridge connects it to the mainland. This means the only way to reach your laid-back escape is by boat. There are two main ways you can cross the open water: by ferry and private vessel. To help you decide how to get to Bald Head Island, the team at Munroe Properties has broken down the different modes of transportation.
What to Know About the Bald Head Island Ferry
Perhaps the most common way to reach Bald Head Island is via ferry. The passenger-only vessel departs from the Deep Point Marina in Southport. The ride is only about 20 minutes long, and departure times vary depending on the season. Parking is available at the marina for a daily fee.
You can now reserve your spot on the ferry up to two hours before the scheduled departure. General boarding tickets are still available for purchase at the ticket windows. To make boarding easier, fill out your luggage tags before you arrive. Once you arrive on Bald Head Island, an outfitter will help you collect your luggage and direct you to the proper tram.
Captain Your Own Journey
Another option that not everyone may know about is getting to the Bald Head Island marina via your own boat. Located near buoy #13A at the Cape Fear River, the marina is accessible from the Cape Fear River, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Because this is a full-service marina, you’ll have access to boating supplies like gas and diesel fuel.
Slips can accommodate boats up to 100 feet long, and there are electric hookups. To reserve a slip, email dockmaster@bhiisland.com, call 910-457-7380, or use VHF Channel 16.
Plan Your Trip to Bald Head Island
Figuring out how to get to Bald Head Island is only one part of planning your vacation. You also need to reserve a vacation rental from Munroe Properties. Our locally-owned and operated company is committed to helping vacationers have the best stay possible.
This starts with helping you find your perfect Bald Head Island vacation rental. Our inventory features some of the best vacation homes this North Carolina island has to offer. Our help doesn’t stop once you book your home base. We are available via phone or email to help you with whatever needs may arise, from dead golf cart batteries to recommendations for dinner. To learn more about how we can help make your Bald Head Island vacation the best it can be, call 910-363-4955.