Known for its long stretch of sandy coastline where the sea turtles nest every summer, Bald Head Island is the perfect quiet getaway for anyone looking for some downtime to relax and recharge.
Bald Head Island is the southernmost island located off the North Carolina coast, where the Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic Ocean. A 20-minute ferry ride will get you to the island. Cars are prohibited, so you’ll have to leave your car on the mainland. You can get around the island by bicycle, golf cart or on foot.
Once you’ve settled into your Bald Head Island vacation rentals, there are a few things you’ll want to check out.
- Old Baldy
The island is home to “Old Baldy,” North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse. The lighthouse is no longer operational, but you can climb to the top of the 110-foot tower to get a great view of the surrounding beauty. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the adjoining Smith Island Museum of History, which showcases a glimpse of life for lightkeepers in the 1800s.
- Bald Head Island Conservancy
Dedicated to preserving the barrier islands, the Bald Head Conservancy offers daily activities, including birding tours and turtle walks.
- Hike, Bike or Kayak
With over 12,000 acres, Bald Head Island has 14 miles of beaches and 180 acres of forest for you to explore. Hikers will love seeing the native flora and fauna along the Kent Mitchell Natural Trail and Bald Head Island Maritime Forest Preserve. Rent bikes and kayaks or bring your own. You can see various birds, deer, alligators and dolphins in the salt marsh that leads to Cape Fear River.
- Go Fishing
If fishing’s your thing, you’ll want to charter a boat to try your hand at landing one of the trophy fish that inhabit the island’s surrounding waters. You can find mackerel, grouper, billfish and tuna in the waters offshore.
