Holden Beach Archives • Holden Beach Vacations Blog

January 31, 2024January 31, 2024

Crafting the Perfect Family Valentine’s Day Vacation on Holden Beach

The concept of love, parenthood and a happy family. Mother and child daughter show heart from hands at sunset on beach

This Valentine’s Day, transform a simple holiday into an extraordinary family adventure on the sun-kissed shores of Holden Beach. Known for its gentle waves, soft sandy beaches, and welcoming community, Holden Beach presents an idyllic setting for families seeking to celebrate love differently. Discover how to create unforgettable moments in your Holden Beach vacation rental, from the first light of dawn to the starry night skies. Look below at how you can craft the perfect family vacation this Valentine’s Day on Holden Beach.

Kickstart the Day with a Special Valentine’s Day Breakfast

Heart-shaped pancakes with syrup and a strawberry on a white dish. A perfect breakfast for Valentine's Day.

Begin your Valentine’s celebration by filling your vacation rental with the aroma of a homemade, love-infused breakfast. Gather in the kitchen to whip up heart-shaped pancakes drizzled with red berry compote, sprinkle some powdered sugar, and we can’t forget that dollop of whipped cream. Accompany it with some fresh orange juice or hot coffee for the adults. This shared meal, prepared and enjoyed together, sets a tone of warmth and togetherness. It’s a great way to fuel the family for your day full of adventures and cherished memories at the beach.

Treasure Hunt with a Twist

Add a dash of adventure to your day with a Valentine-themed treasure hunt. Hide small gifts or love notes around your vacation rental for your family to find. Each clue could lead to the next, ending with a unique treasure or treat for everyone to enjoy. That treasure could be a day spent fishing on the Holden Beach Fishing Pier or hunting for shells on the shoreline. The possibilities are endless when you have a fun Valentine’s Day treasure hunt!

Picnic with a View

Another great way to spend Valentine’s Day is packing a picnic lunch with your family’s favorite snacks and treats and enjoying it on the beach. The view will be spectacular whether you have a beachfront home or just a short walk. Don’t forget to bring a beach blanket or fun beach games for a little after-meal fun.

Capture the Moments

family getting photographed by a photographer during golden hour on the beach

Make sure you capture the memories with a fun family photo session on the beach. Just before sunset, the golden hour offers the perfect natural lighting for stunning photographs. These photos will beautifully capture your family’s love and cherished moments on Holden Beach. To add a playful twist, bring along props like heart-shaped sunglasses or wear a fun Valentine’s Day shirt, making the photo session a cherished keepsake.

Creating the ideal family Valentine’s Day at Holden Beach focuses on shared experiences and love. Cherish the small moments, shared laughter, and peaceful times. These elements will make the day truly memorable. Have you secured your Holden Beach vacation rental yet? Now’s the perfect time.

December 31, 2023December 31, 2023

Planning Your Perfect Spring Break to Holden Beach with the Family

Happy family at beach on sunny spring day

Spring break is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to start planning a memorable family vacation to Holden Beach. This charming coastal town in North Carolina offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, ideal for families of all sizes and ages. As the anticipation builds, we at Holden Beach Vacations have compiled a quick guide to help you plan the perfect family vacation this year.

Book Your Accommodations Early

a family with a dad, mom, grandma and granddad at a beach house in Holden Beach, NC

Holden Beach Vacations offers a range of accommodation options to choose from, such as oceanfront, soundfront, and pet-friendly homes. With spring break being a popular time to visit, the thrill of securing your accommodations early cannot be overstated. We offer family-friendly rentals with amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, and outdoor spaces. No matter the size of the family, we have it just for you!

Create an Itinerary

To ensure that everyone in your family has a fantastic time, create a flexible itinerary with a mix of activities and relaxation. Consider including beach days, outdoor adventures like paddleboarding or kayaking, and visiting local attractions. Holden Beach Fishing Pier and Holden Beach Park are within walking distance of many of our vacation rentals. If you’re up for a day-long trip, explore the adventures near North Myrtle Beach for extra fun.

Dine at Family-Friendly Restaurants

Family Eating Meal At Outdoor Restaurant Together, Smiling

One of the best things about spending your spring break on Holden Beach is trying out some of the family-friendly restaurants in the area. It’s time to discover local seafood restaurants and eateries catering to your families. Dining out is a great way to experience local flavors and unwind after a day of adventure. Plus, who wants to cook every night of your vacation? It’s time to splurge a little too.

As you embark on your spring break adventure to Holden Beach with your family, remember that the memories you create together will last a lifetime. Remember that booking your accommodations now is essential to securing the best options and dates for your trip. As spring break is a sought-after time for families, the earlier the booking, the better. So, start planning today, lock in those reservations, and get ready for a fantastic spring break on the coast of North Carolina!

November 28, 2023November 28, 2023

A Holiday Getaway for the Whole Family to Holden Beach

Five different colored ornaments placed in the sand with a sea blurred out in the back with the words in a maroon colors saying A Holiday Getaway for the Whole Family

Picture a pristine stretch of sandy shores, the sound of the ocean waves, and your loved ones gathered around in a cozy vacation rental. This holiday season, escape life at home and embrace the extraordinary at the beach. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals will allow your family to get more in the holiday spirit. Let’s peek below at why a holiday getaway for the whole family is needed this year.

Festive Decorations in your Vacation Haven

Young handsome dad hanging fairy lights on the Christmas tree with her two lovely daughters in living room at vacation rental.

Start the holiday magic right at your vacation rental this year. Gather the family for a decorating extravaganza. It’s time to string the lights, hang ornaments, and create a cozy ambiance that reflects the season’s warmth. Let the kids engage in holiday crafts that will help decorate your vacation rental. Make new ornaments with seashells you find on the beach, and add some twine to the top to hang on the tree. Think of the new memories you’ll make this year as you decorate your vacation rental in Holden Beach with the family.

Fun in the Sun & Tranquil Evenings

One thing that Holden Beach has is the unique charm of a southern beach town. Soak up the sun with a myriad of beach activities with the family. Build sandcastles with the kids, or simply relax under the shade of an umbrella with a drink in your hand. As the sun sets, take a walk along the shoreline and enjoy that refreshing sea breeze, which may be what the doctor ordered. Enjoy tranquil evenings with the family by playing exciting board games and sharing laughter that echoes throughout the night. Don’t forget to capture those precious memories against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean with the family just steps away from your vacation rental.

Create Lasting Moments

neon lights in the park. Trees decorated with garland, night illumination of a building at the beach

Holden Beach isn’t just a vacation destination; it’s a canvas for creating those lasting moments with family. Whether decking the halls, exploring local restaurants, or simply enjoying the warmth and love of togetherness, you’ll fall in love with our island more and more. Discover the Christmas lights around the island in your rented golf cart while singing holiday tunes together. The possibilities are endless for creating those lasting moments this holiday season in Holden Beach.

Make your holiday dreams a reality on Holden Beach this year. Secure your ideal vacation rental and embark on a journey filled with joy, adventure, and precious family memories. It’s not just a vacation but an opportunity to create timeless memories with the ones you love this holiday season!

October 24, 2023October 24, 2023

A Coastal Thanksgiving at Holden Beach

happy thanksgiving brush pen lettering. watercolor splash and linear leaves background. design holiday greeting card and invitation of seasonal american and canadian autumn holiday.

When celebrating Thanksgiving, the traditional images of cozy fireplaces and roasted turkey dinners may come to mind. However, if you’re searching for a unique and memorable way to spend this holiday, consider swapping the hearth for the sandy shores of Holden Beach. Located on the coast of North Carolina, it offers the perfect setting for a Coastal Thanksgiving that’s both unconventional and unforgettable.

A Beachfront Feast

Cook taking ready roast turkey with vegetables from the oven. Healthy cooking concept.

Thanksgiving at Holden Beach offers many opportunities to savor a coastal twist on the traditional offerings. Forget the classic turkey and stuffing and instead indulge in fresh seafood caught locally from the Atlantic Ocean. Many local restaurants and seafood markets in the area offer a bounty of shrimp, crab, and more. Picture a Thanksgiving dinner featuring a seafood platter and all the sides served with a lovely coastal breeze and a breathtaking ocean view.

If your family would prefer the traditional Thanksgiving feast, then have no worries; your vacation rental has the perfect kitchen. This fully equipped kitchen lets you and your family cook your dinner at the rental. Instead of dining indoors this Thanksgiving, take advantage of the great outdoors this year and enjoy dinner with stunning beach views.

The Perfect Accommodations

If you’ve never vacationed to Holden Beach for Thanksgiving, you’re in for a treat. Depending on how big your family is will depend on which vacation rental you choose. If you already have your vacation home booked, you’re in for a special treat this year. Our vacation homes will have ample space for the whole family to gather and still not feel on top of each other. The kids will have rooms and a bathroom to share, while the adults will have space. The living areas are large enough for everyone to gather and make new memories.

Family Bonding

A happy teenage boy making bump pass during beach volleyball game with friends for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is all about spending quality time with the family, and Holden Beach is the perfect place. Engage in a family beach volleyball game, build sandcastles, or simply relax on the beach. Take a long walk after your Thanksgiving dinner and let the kids collect seashells to take home. Relaxing after a day full of food is just what the doctor ordered, and we can promise you that you’ll enjoy every moment of this vacation with the family.

Celebrating Thanksgiving at Holden Beach offers your family a unique and memorable experience that may become a tradition for years. Whether indulging in a seafood feast, a traditional Thanksgiving feast, or exploring some coastal activities, there is something for everyone. So, why not swap the conventional Thanksgiving for a coastal Thanksgiving in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals and create unforgettable memories with the family?

September 30, 2023September 30, 2023

Fall Escapes to Holden Beach: Sunsets & Seashells

Holden Beach, located on the coast of North Carolina, is a popular coastal destination known for its beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere. This fall season in Holden Beach can be an excellent time to visit due to milder weather and fewer crowds than summer. When you stay in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals, you’ll experience some of the following things below.

Weather

Gold hued dune grass reflects the late day sun on ocean

Fall in Holden Beach typically brings cooler temperatures than the scorching summer heat. Daytime temperatures can range from the 60s to 70s, making it the perfect month to spend time on the beach. It also rains less in October, making it more likely that your family can enjoy some quality time outdoors rather than indoors.

Beach Activities

While swimming might not be as popular in the fall due to cooler water temperatures, the beach is still an excellent place for walking, shelling, and beachcombing. Make time to build a few sandcastles while playing a few games on the empty beach. Spend the day on the beach with the family, soaking up the rays. The cooler weather can make for comfortable strolls along the shoreline while dipping your feet in the water.

Relax

Get out of the crowd to control the spread of infection on empty beach

One good thing about vacationing in the fall is the quieter atmosphere, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful experience. It’s an excellent time to explore the island or the area or relax on a chair facing the ocean. Walk on the beach during the sunset or explore a new place on your next trip to Holden Beach. Now is your time to unwind and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Booking your next trip to Holden Beach in the fall months is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or life back home. This fall, try one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals; you may fall in love with the beach more this time of the year. Whether you’re a beachcomber, angler, or simply seeking relaxation, Holden Beach has something to offer every traveler.

August 31, 2023August 31, 2023

Don’t Miss the 43rd Annual NC Festival by the Sea

Don't Miss the 38th Annual NC Festival by the Sea

If you are planning on coming and visiting Holden Beach this fall, then you don’t want to miss the 42nd Annual North Carolina Festival by the Sea. This is held every year in late October in Holden Beach, NC. Staying in one of our pet-friendly vacation rentals will keep you close to where the fun and activities are being held. This year the festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 29th and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 30th.

This event is held by the Greater Holden Beach Merchants Association and is a 2 day event that you and your family can enjoy. Not only will you get enjoy a parade on Saturday to start out the festival. And what a better way to experience the festival than to walk across the bridge to Holden Beach. This event has free admission and free parking.

Let the Fun Begin

Just besides the parade, you and your family can enjoy so many different things happening during the festival. If you have children, there will be a children’s area that is just for them like face painting or crafts. Not only will there be something there for the kids, but there is something for everyone. And if you want to hear live music there will be plenty of that for you to enjoy. food will be amazing and there will be over 100 Arts and Crafts Vendors for you to shop from. If you have someone on your Christmas list that likes unique gifts, then this is the event for you to attend. Get handmade gifts for those special people in your life.

And just when you don’t think you could have any more fun, there will be plenty to do during the weekend. If you are still searching for that perfect vacation rental for your vacation or getaway, allow us at Holden Beach Vacations to help you with your search! We hope you will make coming to this event and Holden Beach a yearly vacation!

July 31, 2023July 31, 2023

Top 8 Activities in Holden Beach

Everyone looks forward to a beach vacation. It’s when they can kick back and relax without a care in the world. While some people want to stay as busy as possible, going non-stop the entire time, we’re more about being low key and taking the easier, slower route. Let’s face it – don’t we rush about enough in our day-to-day lives? Aren’t we supposed to do things differently when we break away for vacation? That would be the “vaca” part – as in vacate your normal mode of operation.

When families come to Holden Beach, NC, for a vacation they can be as laid back as they want. They can sit on the beach in a lounge chair and do nothing but soak up the warming rays of the sun. Or they can take advantage of local events going on around the area and numerous activities. Here are the top 8 activities in Holden Beach this summer that we think you’ll want to check out!

Free Summer Concerts

Every Sunday night through Sept. 6 there are Free Concerts from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Holden Beach Pavilion on Jordan Boulevard, Holden Beach. Bring a chair and your dancing shoes! Music ranges from jazz to rock & roll and beach music to oldies.

March of the Turtles

Holden Beach is a popular sea turtle habitat. During the hatching season from May to October you can watch as hundreds of small sea turtles “boil out” of the sand and march into the ocean during the night. Read more about this Turtle Watch program.

Learn to Surf

a group of teenagers along with an instructor learning how to surf at the beach

You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to surf at the Carolina School of Surf, 118 Ocean Blvd East, Holden Beach. They specialize in kid’s surf camps, private surfing lessons and group surfing lessons.

Golf

Lockwood Folly is our local course located at 19 Clubhouse Drive in Holden Beach. This links style course winds its way around salt marshes, creeks, forests, fields and the community. This course gets named “Best Golf Course in Brunswick County” time and time again.

Fishing Charters

Go out on a fishing charter boat and enjoy recreational cruises, family fun fishing charters, Gulf Stream fishing, and ¼ day, ½ day and full day fishing with Catch22 Fishing Charters.

Ice Cream & Mini Golf

You can’t go on vacation and not enjoy at least one game of miniature golf. Fantasy Isle Ice Cream and Mini Golf provides everything you need for a fun memory-making outing for the family. Located at 3354 Holden Beach Rd. SW, Holden Beach.

Explore by Kayak or Bike

Beach Fun Rentals has several kayak models to choose from to explore the local flat waters and surf the ocean wave. Singles and tandems available. Daily and weekly bicycle rentals include children’s bikes, adult beach cruisers, tandems, and three wheelers.

Jet Ski Rentals

Experience a power packed ride while zooming across the water – something your kids won’t ever forget! Skis can hold up to three people so it’s an excellent choice for a family outing. WaveRunner Jet Skis are available to rent from Holden Beach Watersports at the Holden Beach Marina, 3238 Pompano St. SW, Holden Beach.

When you’re making your plans for a Holden Beach visit be sure to print this list out. Bring it with you and you’ll have leads on fun-filled events that just might make this your best vacation ever!

June 24, 2023June 30, 2023

Spend Fourth of July at Holden Beach

Are you and your family vacationing to Holden Beach for the 4^th of July celebrations? If the answer is yes, then you will be in for a treat here in Brunswick County. Many families love to come to Holden Beach every year to celebrate the fun holiday with their friends and family. Staying in one of our Holden Beach vacation rentals can help you save money and still have the whole family stay with you. Let’s take a look at what some of the fun things that you and your family can do while you stay with us below.

4^th of July Celebration in Ocean Isle Beach

Head over to Ocean Isle Beach on Tuesday, July 4^th where you and your family can watch the 4^th of July Parade that will be held at 10:00 am. Here you will be able to see the spectacular decorated floats, golf carts, bicycles and more in which will be judged and awarded a prize. If you are in search of fireworks while you are vacationing with us, then head over to Ocean Isle Beach Pier on July 3^rd starting 9:00 pm. Don’t miss the fun that Ocean Isle Beach has to offer you on your next family vacation to Holden Beach.

Southport 4th of July Festival

Every year the City of Southport has a wonderful 4^th of July celebration that begins on July 1^st and ending on July 4^th, 2023. Here you and your family will be able to enjoy several different things such as the Flag Raising Ceremony, Veteran’s Recognition Ceremony and so much more. There will be plenty of things for the kids to do as there will be entertainment, games and even a pancake breakfast. Admission into the festival is free but bring money with you to grab food and crafts. Make visiting this festival for years to come as there is something for everyone to celebrate!

Wilmington Fireworks

Wilmington has some great fireworks display that you don’t want to miss this year. There are many different places where you and your family can sit down and relax to watch the annual 4^th of July fireworks. One of the best places to sit and watch them is at Riverfront Park near downtown . Bring a blanket or towel to sit down and enjoy the amazing display. The fireworks will begin around 9:00 pm so come downtown and grab a quick bite to eat and go grab yourself a nice spot by the waterfront to watch the fireworks display. What a fun evening to spend in nearby Wilmington with the family.

While there are many other fireworks displays going on July 4^th, these are the ones we thought you’d enjoy. If you still haven’t found a place to stay for your vacation, then check out some of these Holden Beach vacation rentals today. We look forward to seeing you and your family this 4th of July at Holden Beach.

January 30, 2023January 31, 2023

Super Deals on Dog Friendly Beach Rentals in Holden Beach

If the long cold northern winter is wearing you down and you want to escape to where the flowers are blooming and the sun is shining, come to Holden Beach, North Carolina. Spring is a time many people wait for to plan their early season vacation. Our dog friendly beach rentals in Holden Beach will be just perfect for you and your four legged best friend. Plus, at Holden Beach Vacations we have plenty of availability!

It’s never too early to reserve your accommodations if you want the best selection of our dog friendly available homes. Any one of our comfortable and affordable condo rentals that are dog friendly might be exactly what you need to warm yourself up.

At Holden Beach Vacations we have an excellent assortment of beautifully furnished condos for you to choose from whether you’re wanting a pet friendly home or not. Take the time to browse our website and see the photos we have posted of each of our vacation rental properties. You’ll know pretty quickly which one speaks to you to come and stay awhile in North Carolina!

What to Bring With You for Your Pets

You’ll want to ensure you have the essentials for the week when you travel with your pet. We recommend that you bring a kennel or cage you can put your pet into whenever you go out. This will not only keep them safe, but since they will not be in their usual home, it will be easier on them. Having enough food with you will make your trip much more manageable, along with their food and water dishes from home. Be sure to pack in your vehicle a blanket or bed they may lay on at home, toys, treats, and leashes. No matter what, they will feel at home with all the goodies you bring.

When you stay in one of our dog friendly beachfront condo rentals you’ll have easy access to everything around coastal North Carolina. Whether you’re coming to visit family, play some golf, or just relax away from work and home, we have the perfect place to stay for your entire family — pets included.

Give us a call today at 800-842-6949. Tell us the size of the rental you’re looking for, what amenities you’d like to have and where you’d like to stay and we’ll help you choose the perfect vacation rental that allows pets. Tell us when you’re coming and how long you’d like to stay and we’ll tell you what’s available. We’ll put you in the ideal pet-friendly vacation rental and at a price you can afford. You can count on us!

November 29, 2022November 30, 2022

Visit Holden Beach During the Holidays

Are you and your family wanting to come to the beach during the month of December for a fun vacation? If you happened to answer yes, then come stay in one of our Pet-Friendly vacation rentals. Staying in one of our vacation rentals next month will help you get in the spirit of Christmas this year. Instead of worrying about how to get your home ready for the holidays, you can instead come to Holden Beach and relax while enjoying these events. Let’s see why coming to Holden Beach during the holidays is a must!

A Parade Just for the Pups

Who doesn’t like bringing their pet on vacation with them? We know of many families wouldn’t consider a vacation unless they brought their best fur friends with them. And bringing them on this trip can be extra special for them as the Sandy Paws Parade happens. On Friday, December 2, 2022 you can come celebrate the holiday season with your pup on our pet-friendly beaches. Bring your pup out for a short stroll as part of the doggie parade. The parade will begin at Town Hall at 10:00 am and after the parade you and your pup can head over to the Holden Beach Pavilion. Here you will get to have the opportunity to take a picture with Santa and your pups. What a fun way to start out the holiday season with your pets and family!

Handcrafted Gifts

Do you know someone who loves receiving extra special handcrafted gifts? Why not head on over to the Holiday Craft Market on Saturday, December 3, 2022 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at Silver Coast Winery. Here you will be able to find some pretty unique gifts that we know someone will love. Handcrafted gifts are always the best to give to someone because it means it came from the heart. Not only are you helping out a local artist, but you are also finding that perfect gift for someone you love. There will be coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies for you to enjoy that will help make this year’s holiday market the best!

It’s a Boat Parade

For those who would like to come see a different kind of parade, we have the perfect one for you. Come to the Southport Marina in Southport on Saturday, December 10, 2022 beginning at 7:00 pm. Here you and the family will be able to see the best holiday parade on the water around town. Be sure to bring a chair, a blanket and find that perfect spot to view along the historic banks of the Cape Fear River. You will see boats of all sizes dressed up in their finest holiday decor and witness the twinkling lights on the water and the sky. Cheer for your favorite decorated boats judged by many and students from the Southport Elementary School Art Class. Come early so you can enjoy one of the many activities that will be happening in town!

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

On Saturday, December 10, 2022 bring the family to the Bill Smith Park in Southport and hunt for candy canes. Be sure to bring a flashlight because we don’t want to have a Flashlight Candy Cane hunt without one. What fun would that be if you couldn’t find any? Here you will be able to find candy canes, green and red eggs on the softball field. And to help you warm up a bit after spending some time to find the goodies, there will be hot chocolate and even a visit with Santa. This can be a perfect photo opportunity for all those who don’t want to wait in the line for Santa at the mall.

While there are many other holiday activities happening in the month of December, we thought these might help with your decision. If you are still searching for that perfect pet-friendly vacation rental, we still have availabilities. We can’t wait to see you and your family this December as you celebrate the holidays in Holden Beach!