10 Best Things To Do On Bald Head Island, North Carolina

Located off the coast of North Carolina, this overgrown, nature-loving island is rich in opportunities for adventure. For one, it's the home of the state's oldest standing lighthouse, Old Baldy. Its nature is also something of preserved wonder. It's the northernmost subtropical island on the East Coast and 10,000 of its 12,000 acres are protected as preserves. There are endless stretches of sandy beachesand palm-filled forests, too, giving you plenty of places to get lost and get back to quiet moments in nature.

Park your car and set out on foot; while getting there and getting around will require a little planning, once you've arrived, you'll see why it's such a treasured secret. Here are some ideas for visiting this quiet hideaway.

How To Get Transportation

Rent Bikes And Golf Carts

Cars aren't allowed on the island, so it's actually possible to get some real peace and quiet—aside from the hum of cicadas, of course. Visitors must travel there by ferry or private boat and then use a golf cart or bicycle to get around. (Don't worry, it's mostly flat.) Cary Cart Co. has some spiffy rides available for rent so you can cruise in style.

Take The Ferry

A ferry departs from Deep Point Marina in Southport, North Carolina, every hour (on the hour) that will deliver you and your luggage to Bald Head Island Marina where you can catch the island tram to your house (reserve online) or pick up golf carts for the day from Cary Cart Company (reservations recommended). For the athletically inclined, Riverside Adventure Company is located next door and rents out bikes by the hour or day. If you are flying to Bald Head, take a taxi from the airport to Deep Point Marina.

What To Do

Get Into Nature

During any trip outdoors, you're sure to glimpse some island wildlife. Hike through the Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve by entering any of the trailheads along Federal Road. It comprises 173 acres of forest.

According to the Bald Head Association, you'll see giant live oaks, laurel oaks, red cedar, and red bay laurels on the island. Take in these natural areas, or simply kick it on the beach by entering the sand at any of the many public access points that run along the 14 miles of coastline.

Join The Sea Turtle Patrol

To learn about nature in the Brunswick Islands, head to the Bald Head Island Conservancy, where you can sign up for a guided nature outing, turtle walk, or ride-along beach turtle patrol. Kids' programs will help them get their feet wet with crabbing or surf fishing. Some programs are only available in summer, so check the website to see what's currently on offer.

Plan A Watersport Adventure

If adventure is calling your name, rent kayaks, surfboards, and paddle boards at the East Beach Surf Shop and set out on the water to see the sights. You can explore the tidal creeks solo or hire a guide. If you're looking to discover surfing for the first time, contact the shop to see when surf lessons are available.

Hit The Golf Course

Don't miss your tee time just because you're on vacation. Golf is available to members and their guests through the Bald Head Island Club. You'll get excellent views while you play, as the George Cobb-designed course winds through the forest, under Old Baldy, and out onto the dune ridge with a 180° view of the ocean, according to the club. Check out baldheadisland.com/events for other great activities indoors and out.

Learn About Local History

No visit to Bald Head Island is complete without a visit to the most recognizable local landmark. Many coastal towns have a lighthouse, but this one is special. Travel back in time with a tour of the island's unofficial mascot, Old Baldy, and make sure you're rested and ready, because a visit here might include a climb. If you're up for it, take the 108 stairs to the top for unparalleled views of the coast. Built in 1817, it's the oldest standing lighthouse in the state. Through the special programs at Old Baldy, you can take a two-hour historical tour aboard a golf cart, which will zip you around the island and uncover facts about the area as you go.

Spend The Day At The Spa

A deep-tissue massage, botanical facial, or pedicure awaits you at Island Retreat, a salon, spa, and the island's only professional yoga studio. Enjoy yoga and mimosas on the studio's porch under a canopy of oaks and palms. Or, join a pilates class in the studio or a session of beach yoga.

Where To Eat And Shop

Grab Some Morning Grub

For breakfast treats and the best iced coffee on the island, head to Sandpiper Coffee and Ice Cream (conveniently located right next to the ferry), which serves up hearty scoops of local ice cream. Or go next door to Boat House, a newly opened diner serving up everything from beignets to fried green tomato B.L.T.s.

Enjoy A Casual Lunch

Try Jailhouse Provisions for fish baskets, sandwiches, and salads, or stock up on groceries at Maritime Market and cook your own fresh catch. For a sip of something refreshing, stop into Bald Head Bottle Wine Shop and Bar.

Catch Dinner On The Waterfront

Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub has a prime location in the heart of the marina, plus a pet-friendly deck if you want to bring your pup along. Choose from a mix of Southern favorites, sushi, and seafood, then head to the bar to hang out while the party lasts.

For a more elegant dining experience, full and temporary members can book a table at the Shoals Club. Aqua boasts the best views on the island and coastal cuisine fashioned from fresh, regional ingredients. The club's lounge, Latitudes, features a tapas-style menu and sweeping views when you're in the mood for a lighter meal.

Take Home A Souvenir

You won't find any giant beach or souvenir shops littering the blocks here. Nor will you find a row of chain restaurants lit up with neon signs. For a little retail therapy, you can pop into Monkee's or Bald Head Blues, both of which stay stocked with preppy island must-haves. Monkee's, a boutique on Maritime Way, is filled with bright colors and breezy labels. Bald Head Blues has resort wear and golf gear as well as accessories to complement your sporty, beachy vacation. Stock up on beach gear at BHI Hardware & General, where they sell not only tools, housewares, and garden supplies, but also the best selection of beach toys and chairs.

Where To Stay

Book A Beach House

Accommodations are primarily rental homes available through companies like Intracoastal Realty or Tiffany's Beach Properties, or through VRBO or Air BnB. Stay along one of the island's three beaches—East, South, West—or in the lush "Maritime Forest," which is located not too far from the sand.

Stay At The Inn

To experience the heart of the harbor, check into the Marsh Harbour Inn and wake up to views of sailboats and the salt marsh. If you're staying on the island, rental properties typically include golf carts and bikes for your use as well as guest access to either The Shoals Club or The Bald Head Island Club, which offer additional dining options, pools, and golf. The Inn at Bald Head Island is a cozy spot for a getaway too.