Bald Head Island is a hidden gem on the North Carolina coast, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and family fun. With no cars allowed, the island’s quiet streets, stunning beaches, and lush maritime forests create an unforgettable escape from the everyday hustle. From exploring tide pools to watching baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean, our trip was filled with magical moments that our family will cherish forever.
Check out our other family adventures here!
This post includes affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep providing high-quality content on this site for free. Rest assured, I only recommend products that I personally use and believe will be helpful for my readers.
As a family of four with two young kids, we were looking for a destination that combined outdoor adventure with a laid-back atmosphere. Bald Head Island delivered with its beautiful beaches, exciting wildlife encounters, and charming small-town feel. Whether we were zipping around in a golf cart, splashing at the Bald Head Island Club pool, or discovering the island’s rich history, every day felt like a new adventure.
Planning a trip to Bald Head Island requires a bit of preparation, but the effort is well worth it. From booking the ferry and arranging a golf cart rental to packing groceries and reserving activities, a little planning goes a long way in making the trip smooth and stress-free. In this guide, I’ll share our favorite experiences, top tips, and everything you need to know for an amazing family getaway to Bald Head Island!
A Family Adventure on Bald Head Island: Our Week in Paradise
Our family of four—my husband, our two kids (ages 3 and 5), and I—spent an unforgettable week on Bald Head Island from August 10-17, 2024. If you’re looking for a coastal town with pristine beaches, rich history, and family-friendly activities, Bald Head Island, NC, is the perfect getaway. From exploring maritime forests to wishing and hoping (without success this time) watch sea turtles hatch, we packed in so many fun things that made this trip one of our best experiences yet.
Getting to Bald Head Island: Planning Ahead
Reaching Bald Head Island requires taking the Bald Head Island ferry from Deep Point Marina in Southport, NC. This passenger ferry doesn’t allow cars, so you’ll leave your vehicle in the paid parking lot for the duration of your stay. Since the island is golf cart-only, make sure to reserve a golf cart rental in advance or arrange for the island tram to take you from the ferry terminal to your vacation rental.
We also brought some groceries with us, as the Maritime Market, the island’s grocery store, is convenient but more expensive. If you pack food, be mindful of the ferry’s baggage restrictions.
Exploring the Beaches and Outdoor Fun
Bald Head Island offers several beach access points, and we made it a goal to try different ones. East Beach became a favorite for its soft beach quality sand and gentle waves. The kids had a blast playing at the water’s edge while we soaked in the ocean views. The thrill of wave jumping became an everyday activity.
One evening, we took a flashlight walk (using only red light flashlights) to witness sea turtle hatchlings make their way to the Atlantic Ocean. This was an unforgettable moment, thanks to the Bald Head Island Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to scientific research and nature tours. Be sure to check their schedule for special events like turtle nest excavations!
Family Fun at Bald Head Island Club
A highlight of our trip was spending time at the Bald Head Island Club. We purchased a temporary membership pass, giving us access to their splash pad, fitness center, and incredible pools. The kids played for hours while my husband and I relaxed with poolside drinks from the bar. For those interested in sports, the club also has golf clubs, a golf course, and courts for pickleball and tennis.
Old Baldy Lighthouse and Island History
My husband and I managed a little escape to climb the Old Baldy Lighthouse, North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse. The view from the top was stunning, offering the best views of the Cape Fear River, coastal communities, and Bald Head Island Marina. We also visited the Smith Island Museum of History, operated by the Old Baldy Foundation, which provided fascinating insights into the island’s past.
Dining on the Island
While we cooked most meals at our rental home, we did venture out to some local spots. Jules’ Salty Grub was a great way to enjoy a relaxed family dinner while watching the boats come and go. We also stopped by Jailhouse Provisions, a casual eatery with fresh red drum on the menu, and grabbed ice cream from a nearby shop.
More Outdoor Adventures
For a little more adventure, we checked out Coastal Urge for standup paddleboarding and explored the island’s nature preserve and maritime forest. The kids loved running through the shaded trails, spotting birds, and learning about salt marshes.
Top 7 Tips for a Memorable Bald Head Island Trip with Kids
- Reserve ferry tickets and tram rides early – The Bald Head Island ferry can fill up quickly, especially in peak summer months.
- Book a golf cart in advance – Since cars aren’t allowed, this is the best way to explore the island.
- Plan a sea turtle experience – Visit Turtle Central at the BHI Conservancy for exciting special events like turtle nest hatchings.
- Pack groceries or shop smart – The Maritime Market has essentials, but bringing some food can help save money.
- Visit Old Baldy Lighthouse – A must for any history buff looking for the best views of the Cape Fear River and beyond.
- Make time for family-friendly activities – The Bald Head Island Club offers pools, a splash pad, and fun recreation options.
- Explore nature – Walk the maritime forest, enjoy nature tours, and take in the beauty of this NC barrier island.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Reserve ferry tickets and tram rides in advance.
- Rent a golf cart early, especially in summer months when demand is high.
- Pack groceries if you want to save money but know the grocery store is there if needed.
- Bring a red flashlight if you hope to see sea turtles hatch.
- Get a temporary membership to Bald Head Island Club for an unbeatable family fun experience.
FAQs
1. How do you get around Bald Head Island?
Everyone travels by golf cart, bike, or on foot. You can rent a golf cart or book the island tram upon arrival.
2. Is Bald Head Island good for kids?
Absolutely! The splash pad, pristine beaches, and nature tours make it a fantastic destination for young kids.
3. Can you see sea turtles on Bald Head Island?
Yes! Visit the BHI Conservancy for guided turtle walks in summer months.
4. What are some fun things to do besides the beach?
Climb Old Baldy Lighthouse, rent bikes, try standup paddleboarding, or explore the nature preserve.
5. Where should we eat?
Try Jules’ Salty Grub, Jailhouse Provisions, or grab fresh seafood from the Maritime Market.
And don’t forget to add a touch of sparkle with Lollipop Friday Glitter Hair Gel—it’s the best part!
So, if you’re looking for baby girl braided hairstyles give these cute kids twist hairstyle a try. It’s a win-win for moms and kids on holiday! Don’t forget to share your own tips and favorite hairstyles on Tiktok, Instagram or Pinterest.
