Holden Beach Vacation Rental

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Sunset view from the bridge over Holden Beach with water tower in background

Holden Beach Attractions

Explore Holden Beach: Top Attractions Nearby

With no hotels on the island and only one small motel inland, Holden Beach remains refreshingly low-key, creating an ideal setting for a tranquil vacation. Add to that the proximity to lively Myrtle Beach and historic Wilmington, and you’ve got the best of both worlds—exciting day trips and peaceful evenings.

Quick Overview of Nearby Attractions

  • Beach access within minutes of the home
  • Locally owned restaurants, shops, and markets
  • Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours on the Intracoastal Waterway
  • Family-friendly spots like the splash pad, playground, and ice cream shops

Getting Around Holden Beach

Holden Beach is incredibly easy to explore. Most attractions are within 5–10 minutes of each other, and parking is typically low-cost or free (off-season). Consider renting a bike or golf cart for a fun, breezy way to see the island.

Local Tips for Holden Beach

  • Parking
    • Most beach accesses have metered spots—arrive early during peak season.
  • Best Times
    • Mornings and evenings are peaceful and cooler; weekdays are quieter.
  • Dining Note
    • Most restaurants are casual, family-owned, and close by.

Our Favorites in Holden Beach

  • Golf
  • Tour H2O & Ollie Raja Charters
    • Experience the Intracoastal Waterway and/or Atlantic Ocean with boat tours, dolphin cruises, jet ski rentals, and deep-sea fishing
  • SmacNally’s Waterfront Restaurant
    • Casual dining with a view, right on the water.
  • Saltwater Shanty
    • Homemade, vintage-recipe ice cream and creative sundaes
Woman putting on a green golf course with man holding flag
Smacnally's Waterfront Grill and HB Jet Ski Rental signs
Sign advertising TourH2O’s dolphin and kayak tours
Colorful sign in front of Saltwater Shanty with a mermaid statue

More Holden Beach Attractions

Palm tree next to the marina with sailboats in Holden Beach
Captain Pete's Seafood Market sign in Holden Beach
Mini golf entrance sign that says Hello Sunshine
Girls Day Out NC beach boutiques and treats map
Couple playing pickleball at the Holden Beach courts
Palm trees and boardwalk lit up at night in Holden Beach
Golf ball dispenser and pricing sign at Holden Beach Driving Range
Palm trees and boardwalk lit up at night in Holden Beach
Park benches under a tree overlooking the water in Holden Beach, NC
Playground with swings and water views at Holden Beach park
NC Wildlife sign at Holden Beach boat ramp under the bridge

Your Peaceful Retreat Awaits

Whether you’re planning lazy beach days or exciting day trips to nearby cities, Old Ferry Coastal Retreat is the perfect place to start and end each day. Take a look inside the home or check availability to see how easy it is to plan your next escape.

Thinking about a Holden Beach getaway?

Check open dates and prices—no pressure to book. Just see what fits your plans.

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