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.
One thing you never have to worry about on a Bald Head Island vacation is going hungry. The small North Carolina island is home to a number of incredible restaurants to choose from. However, sometimes you don’t feel like going out to eat. Luckily, renting from Munroe Properties means you have a fully-equipped kitchen at your disposal. Keep reading to learn more about some delicious and easy North Carolina recipes to make in the comfort of your home away from home.
5 Easy Recipes to Make in Your Bald Head Island Rental
When cooking on vacation, the easier the recipe, the better. There are several easy North Carolina staples you can make when staying at one of our vacation rentals on Bald Head Island.
- A classic Coastal Carolina comfort dish is shrimp and grits. If you’re looking for an extra-easy version of this recipe, use peeled shrimp and quick-cook grits.
- For something sweet, make a dish of banana pudding. Simply layer vanilla wafers, bananas, pudding, and whipped topping, and you have the perfect end to your meal.
- Known as the caviar of the South, pimento cheese is the perfect one-bowl meal. Mix shredded cheese, mayo, and diced pimentos, and spread on sandwiches or crackers.
- If you’re looking for something to make for breakfast, make some country ham biscuit sliders. Simply warm biscuits, and layer on ham and honey.
- Make a pot of North Carolina pulled pork. This slow cooker recipe uses a big pork shoulder, apple cider vinegar, hot pepper sauce, brown sugar, and other seasonings.
After deciding what you want to make, head to Maritime Market to stock up on all your ingredients.
Feel at Home at Your Bald Head Island Vacation Rental
Renting a vacation home from Munroe Properties means you’ll have everything you need to feel right at home. Cook North Carolina recipes together in your fully-equipped kitchen before gathering around the dinner table to enjoy your delicious meals. After the dishes are done, relax on the back porch as you watch a breathtaking sunset or curl up in the living room to watch your favorite movie.
Before browsing our inventory, take some time to make a list of the things you want in your rental. This could be a certain number of bedrooms, a specific area on the island, and more. Doing this will help you narrow down your results so you can find the perfect Bald Head Island vacation rental for you. For help sorting through our North Carolina rentals on Bald Head Island, call 910-363-4955. Our local and knowledgeable team is here to help!
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.
Despite its small size, Bald Head Island, NC, is home to a wealth of activities and amenities, including delicious restaurants. The dining scene on this small, car-free island is exceptional, which means this is the perfect vacation destination for foodies looking to explore somewhere new. From wood-fired pizzas and creative coastal fare to hidden gems, there’s no shortage of places to eat near your rental from Munroe Properties.
Before we get into where you should dine, let’s first look at why BHI is a special foodie stop. The North Carolina island is home to restaurants that celebrate coastal Carolina flavors, local seafood, and other local ingredients. Keep reading to learn more about the standout spots you can’t miss on your next visit.
A Checklist of Delicious Dining on Bald Head Island
- One of the most beloved spots on the harbor waterfront is Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub. This spot mixes Southern comfort and coastal flair to create a menu filled with sandwiches, seafood, and specialty drinks. In the summer, you can enjoy a seafood steampot.
- A changing cocktail list and rotating drafts keep things interesting at Jailhouse Provisions. Houses in a repurposed former jail building, this BHI restaurant is central yet still feels off the beaten path. Dine here for American fare with a coastal influence.
- Found steps from the ferry, Boat House BHI is a diner-style spot serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch. This is a great spot to kick your day off with something hearty or modern.
- If you’re carving pizza, Copper’s Wood-Fired Kitchen is your go-to. This spot is artisanal without being over-the-top. Here, you can find both classic and inventive toppings, like lobster, crab, and even French brie. Gluten-free and sourdough crusts are available.
- Explore the restaurants found at the island’s clubs. Both Bald Head Island Club and Shoals Club feature restaurants that offer more elevated cuisine. The Grille at BHI Club is the club’s fine dining flagship, while Aqua at Shoals Club offers you a side of ocean views.
Tips for Getting the Most out of BHI’s Dining Scene
To help make your dining experience as enjoyable as possible, we recommend making reservations or arriving early. Restaurants on Bald Head Island can often have limited seating and fill up quickly, especially during peak summer. You may have to wait a little longer for your food than you’re used to, but that means you can enjoy the view longer. Be sure to ask your waiter about the local catch and specials.
Put Your Chef Skills to the Test at Your Bald Head Island Rental
Staying at a rental from Munroe Properties not only means you’ll be close to incredible Bald Head Island, NC, restaurants, but you’ll also have a fully-equipped kitchen at your disposal. Try to recreate your favorite dish in the comfort of your home away from home before relaxing on the back deck or front porch with a glass of wine.
Learn more about our well-appointed places to stay on Bald Head Island by calling 910-363-4955. Our on-island staff is here to help make your stay the best it can be from start to finish.
Thanks to its coastal location, Bald Head Island is home to plenty of fun to be had on and off the shoreline. Whether going for a kayaking excursion or building the perfect sandcastle, there’s something to do for everyone. For a relaxing beach adventure to enjoy when staying at a Bald Head Island rental, go for a walk along the shoreline to see what treasures you can find. To help you have success shelling in North Carolina, the local Munroe Properties has put together this guide of helpful tips and tricks.
Where Should You Look?
Bald Head Island is home to 14 miles of beaches. This means there’s no shortage of shoreline to explore. South Beach is where you can often find more unique shells, while West Beach is ideal for families thanks to its calmer waters. There’s also East Beach, which is less crowded. You’ll also want to check out areas near sandbars and inlets.
When Should You Go Shelling?
There are certain times of day or year that are better for looking for shells. Try getting to the beach early in the morning before the sand is covered by towels and chairs. You also want to time your adventure for low tide. The receding water can help unearth hidden treasures that would have otherwise been missed. Check a tide chart to help you plan when to leave your Bald Head Island rental. Going out after a storm is also a great idea, as the wind, rain, and waves can bring up shells from the water’s floor.
What Can You Find?
There’s an array of shells you can find during your Bald Head Island adventures. This includes scotch bonnets, which are the state shell of North Carolina, sand dollars, coquinas, and olive shells. You may also stumble upon rarer finds like starfish and shark teeth. Having a guide downloaded on your phone is a great way to know exactly what you’re looking at or for. No matter what you find, do not take shells that still have creatures living in them.
Take a Break and Book an Escape to Bald Head Island
Every once in a while, you need a break from everyday life. If you’re ready to take a break from the hustle and bustle, reserve your rental from Munroe Properties. Our vacation homes are the perfect place to enjoy some R&R. Bald Head Island is home to activities that blend relaxation and adventure, like shelling and golfing at a local course in North Carolina.
Start planning your getaway by browsing our inventory of well-appointed and cozy Bald Head Island rentals. We bring you some of the best places to stay on Bald Head Island, all of which’ll make you feel right at home. We also have rooms at a quaint bed and breakfast. For help booking your North Carolina vacation rental, call 910-363-4955.
Bald Head Island is not only known for its laid-back atmosphere, but also for its array of outdoor adventures. Whether playing a round of golf or kayaking a local waterway, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Great Outdoors. During your outdoor adventures, keep your eyes open for the animals that call our island home. To help you know what critters you might spot during your getaway with Munroe Properties, we’ve put together a list of wildlife in North Carolina found on Bald Head Island.
A Guide to Animals You May See on Your Bald Head Island Vacation
Thanks to its protected habitats, Bald Head Island supports a stunning diversity of species. The same maritime forest, salt marsh, dunes, beaches, and freshwater lagoons that are the site of endless fun are also where you can see reptiles, amphibians, birds, and more.
Remember, if you see wildlife out on your adventures, do not feed or approach them. Not only can this be dangerous, but it may also lead to fines.
Amphibians & Reptiles
One of the most popular residents on Bald Head Island is the loggerhead sea turtle. These animals lay hundreds of nests a year, with roughly 7,000 hatchlings emerging each season. One of the best ways to get a safe look at the turtles is on Turtle Walks with the Bald Head Island Conservancy.
Other turtle species that occasionally nest on Bald Head Island include green, leatherback, and Kemp’s ridley. Bald Head Island is also home to American alligators, which roam most freshwater lagoons. You can also spot them sunning near golf course ponds.
Birds
Bald Head Island is an Audubon-designated Important Bird Area. With over 260 bird species recorded, the North Carolina island is a great place for birdwatchers. The marshes are great places to see snowy egrets, great blue herons, and oystercatchers. Head to the forest and you can see painted buntings, cardinals, and seasonal warblers. Sign up for a birding tour to learn more about winged visitors.
Mammals
You don’t have to look at the trees to see wildlife on your adventures on dry land. Common first mammals include gray squirrels, raccoons, and white-tailed deer. You might also spot red and gray foxes.
See What You Can Find on Your Bald Head Island Vacation
You never know what you’ll find on your escape to Bald Head Island. From getting an up-close look at wildlife in North Carolina to discovering treasures on a shopping adventure, there’s something to see or find everywhere you look. Make sure you’re well-rested for whatever adventures fill your itinerary by turning to Munroe Properties for your rental needs.
Our inventory includes well-appointed homes all over Bald Head Island, including the maritime forest. All of our rentals include fully-equipped kitchens, cozy bedrooms, and spacious living areas. Call 910-363-4955 to learn more about our places to stay on Bald Head Island.
There’s nothing better than leaving the hustle and bustle of life behind for a relaxing vacation. With endless adventure, a laid-back atmosphere, and so much more, Bald Head Island is the perfect destination for your next escape. If your upcoming trip is your first time visiting our slice of North Carolina, you may wonder what you can expect from your getaway. To help travelers have the best vacations to Bald Head Island possible, the local team at Munroe Properties has put together this guide with answers to some common questions.
How Do You Get to Bald Head Island?
There’s only one way to get to Bald Head Island, and that’s by boat. However, you have two ways to cross the Cape Fear River. One option is the Bald Head Island Ferry, the most popular choice, which departs from Southport. You can also captain your own boat to the Bald Head Island Marina.
What Is There to Do on Bald Head Island?
Despite its small size, Bald Head Island is home to an array of things to do and see. Check out local attractions like Old Baldy Lighthouse. Enjoy a day at the beach, or learn about local wildlife and plants with Bald Head Island Conservancy. Our blog is a great reference when creating your Bald Head Island vacation itinerary.
What Kinds of Restaurants Are There?
Vacations are the perfect time to take a break from everyday tasks, including cooking. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious places to eat on Bald Head Island. The Boat House is a great spot for a filling breakfast, while Jules’ Salty Grub and Island Pub is known for plating up Southern-style coastal cuisine.
How Can You Enjoy the Amenities at the Shoals or BHI Club?
Bald Head Island is home to two social clubs: Shoals Club and BHI Club. Both of these spots feature incredible amenities like on-site dining, pools, tennis courts, and more. The best and easiest way to ensure you can take advantage of all they have to offer is by reserving one of our rentals that come with guest access passes.
Where Are the Best Places to Stay on Bald Head Island?
There’s no better option for accommodations than rentals from Munroe Properties. Our inventory includes homes perfect for all kinds of Bald Head Island vacations, from romantic escapes to family trips. Staying at one of our Bald Head Island rentals means you can enjoy all the comforts of home. We also have accommodations at Marsh Harbour Inn, a bed and breakfast on Bald Head Island. Learn more about booking your vacation with us by calling 910-363-4955.
There’s no shortage of ways to soak in the sunshine on a Bald Head Island vacation, like spending a day on the beach or kayaking. Another popular way to relax while taking in the beauty of Bald Head Island is to play golf on the local course. For those looking to spend time on the course, there’s no better place to turn for your rental than Munroe Properties. Keep reading to learn more about how to plan your perfect North Carolina golf getaway.
What to Know About the BHI Club Course
The golf course at the Bald Head Island Club is a premier North Carolina course. Open to members and registered guest pass holders, the par-72 course opened in 1974. It underwent a renovation in 2010 that widened the fairways.
The 18-hole course features rolling dunes, salt marshes, freshwater lagoons, and stunning views. With slope ratings around 137 for men and 113 for women, this spot is known for being a challenging but fair course.
In addition to the 18 holes, this North Carolina golf course has a full driving range with target greens, chipping and putting zones, and space to practice your short game. There’s also a clubhouse featuring a restaurant, lounge, and pro shop. This is also where you can rent equipment if you are unable to bring your own clubs with you.
To reserve a tee time, call the club’s golf shop or book via the Bald Head Island ClubNow app. If you’re looking to sign up for a lesson, download the Coach360 app.
Reserve One of Our Bald Head Island Rentals with Club Access
Make playing on this fantastic Bald Head Island golf course a breeze by renting from Munroe Properties. Our inventory includes luxurious rentals all over Bald Head Island, including well-appointed rentals on the golf course.
As you browse our selection of Bald Head Island rentals, use our filters to see houses with full/golf access for separate purchase. Our reservationists can help you find the perfect home base for your golf getaway! For help booking your stay, call 910-363-4955.
Bald Head Island is known for its laid-back atmosphere. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t an abundance of adventure. Whether planning a romantic trip for two or a summer vacation with the whole family, you never have to worry about becoming bored. One of the best things to do during your visit, especially if your upcoming trip is your first visit to the North Carolina island, is exploring some of the popular attractions found on Bald Head Island. To help make your list of places to explore, the local experts at Munroe Properties have put together a checklist of some of our favorites.
3 Places to Visit on Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and historic landmarks. All of this means there are countless places to explore during your visit.
- One of the most popular spots on the island is Old Baldy Lighthouse, the state’s oldest standing lighthouse. Visitors can climb to the top to take in sweeping views. This is also where you can find the Smith Island Museum, which explores the island’s maritime history.
- Check out the educational programs and guided nature walks at the Bald Head Island Conservancy. Dedicated to preserving the island’s ecosystems, this natural attraction is a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Go for a walk along the Kent Mitchell Nature Trail. The scenic path takes you through nature and gives you a chance to explore some of the wildlife that call Bald Head Island home. In addition to the main trail, there are several other routes to explore that are suitable for all ages.
Enjoy a Bit of R&R on a Bald Head Island Vacation
Between visiting Bald Head Island attractions, soaking in the sunshine on a beach, and dining out at local restaurants, kick back and relax in the comfort of your home away from home. Renting from Munroe Properties means you have a vacation rental that’s perfect for relaxation.
Our inventory of places to stay on Bald Head Island features rentals in a range of sizes and styles, including rooms at Marsh Harbour Inn. All of our vacation homes come with fully-equipped kitchens, spacious living rooms, and cozy bedrooms. Some rentals include access to the two popular clubs on BHI. Call 910-363-4955 to learn more about our Bald Head Island rentals and which is right for your escape from everyday life.