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 Bald Head Island Services 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 Bald Head Island Services. 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.
You don’t have to wait for a special occasion like a honeymoon to enjoy a romantic vacation. Sometimes, the best vacations are the ones you take simply because you can. If you’re looking to escape everyday life for a little while with your partner, plan a vacation with Bald Head Island Services. As a locally owned and operated vacation rental company, we have first-hand knowledge of some of the best things to do on Bald Head Island on a trip for two.
What to Do on Romantic Getaways in North Carolina
Romantic adventures don’t always have to involve candlelight. Sometimes, all it takes is spending quality time together. There are countless things to do on Bald Head Island that are sure to leave a lasting impression and give you a chance to enjoy time together.
Date Night
Perhaps one of the most quintessential romantic activities is date night. However, that doesn’t mean you need to get all dressed up, unless you feel like it. There are several exceptional restaurants on Bald Head Island, including The Wisp, Jailhouse Provisions, and Jules Salty Grub and Island Pub. If your rental includes club access, dine at the restaurants at the Shoals Club or BHI Club. You can also enjoy a delicious meal in the comfort of your Bald Head Island rental by whipping up an easy yet restaurant-worthy meal.
Outdoor Adventures
Put the phones down and head outdoors. Bald Head Island is home to a plethora of outdoor activities, all of which are more enjoyable when done with someone you love. Go for a walk along one of four trails found inside Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve, or ride around on a bike rental from Coastal Urge. Spend time out on the water kayaking on a rental from Riverside Adventure Company.
Other Memorable Things to Do
The fun doesn’t stop with the activities mentioned above. Southport Water Tours offers an hour-long sunset cruise along the Cape Fear River. Book a spa day at Island Retreat Spa with one of their incredible couples treatment packages. Watch the sunset from the back deck of your Bald Head Island with a glass of wine.
Find the Perfect Vacation Home for Your Romantic Escape
You don’t have to be out exploring things to do on Bald Head Island to enjoy time together. Sometimes, nothing is better than a quiet night in. This is why picking the right Bald Head Island rental from Bald Head Island Services is so important. Our inventory includes homes in all sizes, so we recommend sorting our accommodations by occupant number to find the ones suited for smaller groups. However, just because the rental is smaller doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing any amenities or comforts! Call 910-363-4955 today to speak with a reservationist for help finding your right fit.
Who says you have to stay home for the holidays? This year, add a bit of extra fun to your celebrations by celebrating Christmas and the holiday season in North Carolina, specifically Bald Head Island. This charming island on the east side of the Cape Fear River is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. However, that doesn’t mean your holiday vacation will be boring! Between having fun at your Bald Head Island Services rental and enjoying area activities, there are plenty of things to do.
Holiday Fun to Enjoy on Your Bald Head Island Vacation
- Do a bit of last-minute gift shopping at local stores. Find something for the fashionista in your life at Monkee’s of Bald Head Island, or look for a truly unique gift at Antique Maps & More.
- Add a bit of festive cheer to your Bald Head Island rental. Create paper garland to go around railings, or make a colorful wreath to hang on your front door. Just make sure any decorations you put up can be taken down without damaging the rental.
- Hop on your golf cart and drive around Bald Head Island, taking in colorful light displays. Residents are known for decorating their homes for the holiday season. Be sure to bring along a blanket and thermos of hot chocolate.
- If your home has access to BHI Club or Shoals Club, check to see what festive events are taking place. This includes the Santa Scramble at BHI Club.
- Make your favorite holiday cookies, pop some popcorn, and settle in for a holiday movie marathon. For extra fun, grab all the blankets you can find and create a fort in the living room!
Start Planning Your Year-End Bald Head Island Vacation Today
If you’re looking to spend Christmas and the holidays in Bald Head Island, North Carolina, now’s the perfect time to book your vacation rental. For some of the island’s best rental properties, turn to Bald Head Island Services. Our inventory of vacation homes and guestrooms at Marsh Harbour Inn has accommodations of all sizes. This means we can host everyone from couples to families looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of life this holiday season.
Because we call Bald Head Island home, we are able to respond quickly to any issues that may arise during your stay. We are also able to offer recommendations for other things to do during your stay! Get in touch with us by calling 910-363-4955.
When browsing incredible vacation rentals from Bald Head Island Services, you may see mention of the home having access to Shoals Club or BHI Club. If you’ve never visited our slice of North Carolina before, you may not be completely sure what these places are. Both spots are home to extra fun that enhances any vacation. Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect from either attraction.
You can pick up your pass from either club after you have completed your registration to purchase the temporary passes. Before visiting, check to see what kind of dress code is enforced.
What to Know about Shoals Club
The Shoals Club, found on Station House Way, is a private beach club overlooking the Frying Pan Shoals with direct beach access. During your visit, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean while enjoying several activities. Go for a swim in the saltwater pool or play a game of bocce ball. Sunrise yoga is offered seasonally, and the club is known to host a number of events throughout the year. While here, you can also dine at one of the three on-site restaurants, ranging from casual to fine dining.
A Guide to the BHI Club
Another fantastic option is the BHI Club. This spot is known for seemingly endless recreation opportunities. Book a tee time to play a round on the exceptional golf course, or put your skills to the test on the tennis courts. Other memorable on-site activities include croquet, pool parties, a splash pad, and more. Be sure to grab a bite at one of the incredible restaurants here. There are also several full-service bars if you’re looking for a refreshing cocktail. Before visiting, look at the Calender of Events to see what other fun is taking place.
Enjoy Incredible Amenities with Bald Head Island Services
At Bald Head Island Services, we know it takes more than a place to sleep to have a memorable vacation. That’s why we work to ensure our vacation rentals have all the comforts of home. In addition to basic amenities, our Bald Head Island rentals come with additional perks, like golf cart rentals or access to the Shoals Club or BHI Club. Call 910-363-4955 to speak with a reservation specialist today to learn more about which vacation home fits your needs best.
The only way to reach Bald Head Island is by ferry. However, you don’t have to wait until you reach the island for your vacation to begin. Start having fun long before you check into your rental from Bald Head Island Services by exploring some of the things to do in Southport. This coastal town where you board the ferry is home to charming shops, delicious restaurants, and countless attractions.
Shopping in Southport
Howe Street, which is like Southport’s Main Street, is only about five minutes away from Deep Point Marina. Take some time to wander in and out of the shops that line the streets. Stop by Ocean Outfitters to grab any last-minute outdoor gear. If you’re hoping to get a new outfit for date night, visit Lexi B’s Boutique. There are also several gift stores to explore, including Magnolia’s of Southport and Coastal Blue Gift Shoppe.
Unforgettable Attractions
We recommend getting to Southport early so you can explore some of the attractions here. Sip on a coffee at the waterfront park, or check out the Stede Bonnet Monument. If you’re interested in history, give yourself time to visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport or the Fort Johnston – Southport Museum & Visitor’s Center. Stretch your legs by walking along the Southport Historic Riverwalk Marsh boardwalk.
Delicious Restaurants
Just like Bald Head Island is home to world-class restaurants, so is Southport. If you can’t wait until you reach your final destination to grab a bite to eat, don’t worry. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from before getting on the ferry. From barbecue at Southport Smoke House to pizza at Dry Street Pub & Pizza to seafood at Fishy Fishy Cafe, there’s a little bit of everything.
Make Memories on a Bald Head Island Vacation
There’s no shortage of things to do on a getaway to Bald Head Island. After exploring things to do in Southport before heading to the island or enjoying outdoor activities once you arrive, the possibilities are truly endless. When you’re ready to call it a night, unwind in the comfort of your Bald Head Island Services rental.
Our incredible vacation rentals and rooms at Marsh Harbour Inn are the perfect home base for any group, from solo travelers to families. You don’t have to go about picking your rental alone. Our local reservation team can help you sift through our rentals to find the one that meets your wants and needs, including budget, best. Speak with someone today by calling 910-363-4955.
One of the best ways to recharge your batteries is by spending as much time outdoors as possible. Treat yourself to some R&R this summer by planning an unforgettable vacation with Bald Head Island Services. Our vacation rentals on Bald Head Island are perfect for everyone, from solo travelers to families looking to enjoy the slower pace of life for a while. However, that slower pace doesn’t have to be boring. There are countless outdoor activities in North Carolina that are the right blend of relaxation and adventure.
5 Things to Do Outside on Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island is known to experience mild weather conditions year-round. This means you can spend as much time outdoors regardless of when you visit. To help you decide what outdoor activities to include on your itinerary, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorites.
- Spend some time exploring the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve. This natural attraction is home to four trails that surround you with Mother Nature’s beauty.
- Go for a bike ride on a rental from Coastal Urge or Riverside Adventure Company. When deciding where to ride, we recommend simply setting off from your Bald Head Island rental and seeing where your adventure takes you.
- See what tours and activities the Bald Head Island Conservancy offers during your escape. The group offers everything from birding tours to beach patrol ride-alongs. Take a look at the calendar of events to see what outings you can join.
- Explore the beauty of the island from the water. Riverside Adventure Company has several aquatic rentals for you, including kayaks and paddleboards. They also offer kayak tours that depart from the kayak shack in Marina Park.
- Another fun way to spend some time out on the water is fishing with a local charter. Angry Pelican Charters offers nearshore fishing, while RodFather Charters can take you out on a backwater fishing expedition.
Reserve Your Bald Head Island Home Base
No matter what outdoor activities you enjoy during your vacation in North Carolina, it’s important you have a cozy place to call home. Choose from some of the best rentals Bald Head Island has to offer by turning to Bald Head Island Services. Our inventory has it all, from homes with stunning views to rooms at Marsh Harbour Inn.
Because our staff is local, we can easily help address any issues with your rental. It also means we have first-hand experience with all the amenities and activities available on Bald Head Island. Let us help make your trip the best it can be. Call 910-363-4955 to learn more.
There’s nothing quite like trading in the sounds of the city for the sounds of Mother Nature. Whether listening to waves roll in or hearing birds chirping as you relax on the porch of your Bald Head Island Services rental, nature is truly the soundtrack of your vacation. This charming North Carolina island is home to endless beauty, and one of the best spots to surround yourself with stunning scenery is the Bald Head Island Natural Area.
What to Know about This Natural Attraction
The Bald Head Island Natural Area, also known as the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve, is part of the Smith Island Complex, a protected coastal area. Found east of the Cape Fear River, the 191-acre space created in 1988 is known for its old, large trees, most of which are live oaks and laurel oaks. These species help create a canopy that shelters other places like wild olive and American holly from salt spray.
One of the best ways to take in the splendor of this area is one of its trails, which are open year-round during daylight hours. There are four paths to choose from.
- Easy: .4-mile Loop Trail or .6 mile Middle Trail
- Easy to moderate: .5 mile East Trail or .7 mile Creek Trail
No matter which trail you explore, keep your eyes open for some of the wildlife commonly spotted here, including cotton mice, gray foxes, white-tailed deer, raccoons, and several types of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Recharge Your Batteries on a Bald Head Island Vacation
If you’re feeling burnt out, treat yourself to some R&R on a getaway with Bald Head Island Services. Whether going for a hike on a Bald Head Island Natural Area trail or exploring the island on a bike rental, this North Carolina destination is filled with things to do that range from relaxing to adventurous.
The first step in planning your escape is finding your perfect vacation rental. Before searching our inventory, create a list of your wants and needs, which will help narrow down your choices. With everything from rooms at a charming B&B to pet-friendly rentals, we have a little bit of it all. To learn more about any of our Bald Head Island rentals, call 910-363-4955.
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.
One of the most convenient ways to get around Bald Head Island is on a golf cart. However, you have another option for getting from your Bald Head Island Services rental to places like local shops or the beach: bike rentals. This two-wheel mode of transportation is an excellent option for anyone looking to explore the island while sneaking in a workout.
Where to Get Your Rental
The two bike rental services on Bald Head Island offer a wide range of bikes and accessories.
Coastal Urge provides cruises for all ages. In addition, they also have kids’ bikes with or without training wheels. If your children are too young to ride on their own, reserve a trail-a-bike or front-loader child seat to your reservation. When making your reservation, you have the choice of either picking up your items at their store or having them delivered to your Bald Head Island home.
Another excellent option is Riverside Adventure Company. Located steps from the ferry landing, this spot is known for its extensive inventory. In addition to regular bikes, you can also reserve electric bikes and specialty bikes, like trikes. They also offer both delivery and pickup services.
Where to Ride Your Bikes
Thanks to its size and gentle terrain, it’s easy to cycle to your heart’s content on Bald Head Island. Set off from your vacation rental with no destination in mind; you never know what you’ll stumble upon. Ride to West Beach to see the mouth of the Cape Fear River, or head to South Beach to see if you can spot dolphins in the distance.
Start Planning Your Bald Head Island Visit Today
Whether looking ahead to summer vacation or doing some last-minute spring break planning, now’s the time to plan your Bald Head Island escape. Find the perfect place to call home by turning to Bald Head Island Services. After a day of fun, like exploring Bald Head Island on bike rentals, your home away from home is the ideal spot to unwind.
Cook a delicious meal in the fully equipped kitchen or watch a stunning sunset from your porch. Our fantastic homes are found all over Bald Head Island, meaning adventure surrounds you no matter which you reserve. To speak with a reservationist about which vacation rental is best for you, call 910-363-4955.
Bald Head Island is known for its laid back atmosphere. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of entertaining things to do and see. The charming North Carolina island found two miles across the Cape Fear River from Southport has everything you need to enjoy the best vacation possible. A fun way to explore the island is by wandering in and out of the shops on Bald Head Island.
Whether looking for a new swimsuit or something to remember your trip by, the shops here have it all. You never know what you’ll stumble upon wandering the streets. Hop in your golf cart and set off from your Bald Head Island Services to see what you can find.
Where to Go Shopping on Bald Head Island
- Riverside Adventure Company has your beach attire needs covered. Found in the Marina, the store is filled with carefully selected fashion, accessories, and Bald Head Island Limited branded gifts.
- Bald Head Blues embraces the island’s lifestyle. The clothes here are the perfect blend of casual and classic. You can even find accessories for your four-legged family members.
- Browse framed maps spanning centuries at Antique Maps & More. This spot also offers complimentary nature and scavenger hunt maps to help you explore Bald Head Island.
- Island Passage is the epitome of chic beach style. Located on Maritime Way, the store has clothing for the whole family. Be sure to pick up one of their comfy sweatshirts for those cooler North Carolina nights.
- Find an outfit for date night at Monkee’s of Bald Head Island. The upscale boutique has everything you need to create the perfect look, including shoes and accessories.
- Found on the Bald Head Island Conservancy campus, the Turtle Central Gift Shop helps support the nonprofit’s mission. Browse the shelves lined with toys, accessories, clothes, and home decor items.
- If you’re looking to bring a piece of island-style home with you, stop by Room Service. This spot offers a mix of new and vintage home items and gifts, many of which are one-of-a-kind.
Bald Head Island Rentals | The Perfect Place to Call Home
Staying at a rental from Bald Head Island Services means everything from wandering local shops to spending a day at the beach is right around the corner. Our staff is local, meaning we have tried and experienced all the activities and attractions we recommend to our guests. Having on-island staff also means we can quickly resolve any issues that arise.
Call 910-363-4955 to speak with a member of our reservation staff. They can help you determine which of our Bald Head Island rentals best suits your group’s needs and wants. Get a jump start on planning your North Carolina vacation by browsing our inventory online today.