Not only are vacations the perfect time to recharge your batteries, but they’re also an ideal time to expand your horizons. Maybe that means trying a new type of food or trying a new activity for the first time. It can also mean learning more about the place you’re visiting. For anyone planning a getaway with Bald Head Island Services and looking to learn about the island’s past, plan a visit to the Old Baldy Lighthouse, also home to the Smith Island Museum of History. 

A Look at Old Baldy’s Past

Thanks to its location at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, Bald Head Island was situated along a maritime traffic route. To help sailors distinguish the mouth of the river, the state began construction on a lighthouse in 1789. The newly established Federal government took over work, and the original lighthouse was completed in December 1974. 

The original structure was torn down in 1813 due to erosion, and Old Baldy was completed in 1817. The new lighthouse featured recycled bricks from the original lighthouse and newly pressed bricks covered in stucco to help protect them against the elements.

How to Explore the Lighthouse’s History

The Old Baldy Lighthouse is open to self-guided tours between the spring and fall, but hours vary depending on the season. Visitors can climb 108 steps to reach the top of the lighthouse, where they can enjoy sweeping views of the Cape Fear River estuary. 

There’s more to explore here than the lighthouse. The former keeper’s cottage is now home to the Smith Island Museum of History. Inside, you can view artifacts from the Old Baldy’s Foundation’s collections, which rotates what’s out on exhibit. This is a great way to learn about the island’s historical significance. 

Admission is required to enter the lighthouse grounds. After exploring both the lighthouse and museum, enjoy lunch on the lawn or read the interpretive signs to learn more about the past. Be sure to look at the calendar of events for extra fun during your visit. 

Find Your Dream Bald Head Island Rental

Due to its small size, you can easily explore all Bald Head Island has to offer, no matter where your rental is located. Load up into your golf cart and head over to check out Old Baldy Lighthouse, the Bald Head Island Natural Area, or any of the other memorable attractions. 

Bald Head Island Services is proud to be located right on Bald Head Island. We can use first-hand knowledge of the island and our inventory to help you decide which of our Bald Head Island vacation rentals is right for you. From pet-friendly rentals to homes on the golf course, we have it all. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with a reservation specialist today.

One of the most important decisions to make when planning a vacation besides where to go is where to call home. There are several things to consider when picking your home away from home. If your next escape is taking you to North Carolina’s picturesque Bald Head Island, there’s no better place to find your rental than Bald Head Island Services.

Located right on the island, our full-time vacation rental and property management company understands that in order to have the best trip possible, you need a relaxing space to call home. We have helped connect countless travelers with the Bald Head Island vacation rental that best suits their needs. Before you start searching our inventory for your dream North Carolina vacation home, take some time to jot down some of your needs and wants, like the items listed below.

1. Location on the Island

At Bald Head Island Services, we work to bring you the best properties the island has to offer. Our homes are found all over the charming island, which means you have your pick of where to stay. If you’re planning a golf getaway, reserve a unit in the Bald Head Island Golf Course Club. If you want to start and end your day looking out over the ocean, we have rentals known for their ocean views.

Because the island isn’t very large, no matter which rental you reserve, you’ll be close to endless attractions, including local shops like Riverside Adventure Company and popular restaurants like The Wisp.

2. Additional Amenities

All of our rentals have the comforts of home. However, each one is unique and has its own amenities that help it stand out. Several of our rentals offer the option to purchase access to the Shoals Club or BHI Club. Our homes also come with golf cart rentals, which vary in size. We also have properties that come with family-friendly amenities like high chairs and Pack-n-Play travel cribs.

3. Size of the Home

The last thing you want on vacation is to return “home” and feel like you’re on top of each other. When sorting through our inventory, it’s important to find one that has enough room for everyone to spread out. However, you don’t want something so large that it feels like you’re playing hide-and-seek. Our rentals range from one bedroom to six, so we have something for groups big and small.

Let Us Help Find Your Perfect Fit

You don’t have to choose your dream Bald Head Island rental alone. The team at Bald Head Island Services is here to help you find one that meets all your wants and needs. Call 910-363-4955 to connect with a reservation specialist today.

For anyone planning a getaway to Bald Head Island, one of the first things you need to do is book your spot on the ferry. However, as you book transportation, you’ll soon realize this vessel is a passenger-only ferry. Because of this, there are two primary sources of transportation on the island. One is bikes, and the other main way of getting around Bald Head Island is a golf cart rental.

When you choose a vacation rental from Bald Head Island Services, not only will you have a relaxing space to call home, but you’ll also have access to top-of-the-line golf carts. This means you have one less thing to worry about. Ensure everyone stays safe while having fun by brushing up on important laws and safety tips.

What to Know about Driving Golf Carts

Several of the laws that apply to driving a car apply to driving golf car rentals. In order to drive a golf cart on Bald Head Island, you must have a valid driver’s license. There are also enforced speed limits, and you cannot operate the cart while intoxicated.

In addition to the laws surrounding these vehicles, there are several other safety tips to remember.

• Make sure everyone is wearing the seat belt or holding onto the grab rails. Everyone should also keep their entire body inside the cart while moving.
• Do not have more people than there are seats. For example, don’t try to squeeze a fifth person on if your golf cart only has four seats.
• Indicate your turn with either turn signals or hand signals.
• Keep your cart off sidewalks and on the roadway.
• If taking a sharp turn, do not go at a high speed.
• Golf carts are quieter than cars, so honk at intersections to ensure other approaching vehicles or pedestrians hear you.
• Set the parking brake and take the keys when you are done driving.
• Ride the brakes when going downhill to help reduce the risk of rollovers.

Discover the Benefits of a BHI Services Home

Having access to a golf cart rental is only one of the perks that come from renting with Bald Head Island Services. Our homes also come with bed linens, a starter dish and laundry soap supply, and more. Our kitchens have everything you need to create delicious meals.

In addition to basic necessities, our Bald Head Island rentals have fantastic amenities that’ll help enhance any stay, including memorable summer vacations! See if your chosen home has the option of purchasing access to the clubs on the island. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with a team member and learn which of our fantastic rentals best fits your wants and needs.