Looking for a car-free island paradise on the Carolina coast? Head to Bald Head Island! Accessible only by ferry, Bald Head Island offers a serene blend of beach, marsh, and maritime forest. With 14 miles of beaches, historic landmarks, and peaceful surroundings, it's the perfect destination for those craving natural beauty and total relaxation.
Bald Head Island, NC Highlights:
- For Nature Lovers: Explore the Bald Head Island Conservancy – Learn about sea turtle conservation and take guided nature walks.
- For History Buffs: Climb Old Baldy Lighthouse – The oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina with stunning views from the top.
- For Beachgoers: Lounge on East Beach – Enjoy wide sandy shores perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and shell hunting.
- For Adventurers: Kayak through the salt marshes – Paddle the creeks and spot herons, egrets, and playful otters.
- For Families: Bike the island trails – Explore this car-free island safely by bike or golf cart with scenic stops along the way.
When I like to visit Bald Head Island, NC
The best time to visit Bald Head Island is from late spring to early fall (May–October), when the weather is warm enough for beach days, kayaking, and turtle nesting tours. Summer is the most popular time, while early fall offers fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
My tips for getting to Bald Head Island, NC
- By Ferry: Take the Bald Head Island Passenger Ferry from Deep Point Marina in Southport. Ferries run every hour and take about 20 minutes.
- By Car: Drive to Southport, NC (about 1 hour from Wilmington) and park at Deep Point Marina. Cars are not allowed on the island.
- By Plane: Fly into Wilmington International Airport (ILM), then drive or shuttle to Southport for the ferry.
Where I like to stay on Bald Head Island, NC
- Marsh Harbour Inn – Quaint bed-and-breakfast near the marina with cozy rooms and water views.
- Vacation Rentals – Choose from beachfront cottages, forest retreats, or harbor-view homes perfect for families or groups.
- The Inn at Bald Head Island – Upscale inn with elegant décor and complimentary breakfast, ideal for couples.
Best Things to Do on Bald Head Island, NC
1. Climb to the Top of Old Baldy Lighthouse for Panoramic Island Views
Bald Head Lighthouse, known as Old Baldy, is the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina still standing. It is one of three lighthouses built on Bald Head Island to help guide ships past the dangerous shoals at the mouth of the Cape Fear River. North Carolina's coastline from Cape Hatteras to Cape Fear is called the Graveyard of the Atlantic because about 2,000 shipwrecks are found along this coast. These shipwrecks include Spanish privateers, blockade runners, and freighters. Lively maritime traffic into the thriving port of Wilmington required the construction of a harbor light to help navigation into the mouth of the Cape Fear RiverThe lighthouse was completed in 1794 of 80,000 bricks. After the erosion endangered the original lighthouse, the new octagonal 110-foot tall one was built in 1817.
101 Light House Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461
2. If You’re Curious About Coastal Wildlife, Stop by Bald Head Island Conservancy
The Bald Head Island Conservancy is a non-profit organization founded in 1983 with a mission to promote conservation, preservation and education about the island. The conservancy is located in the Smith Island Complex in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The complex includes Bald Head Island, Middle and Bluff Islands, all between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean. The conservancy facilitates and sponsors scientific research that helps coastal communities. It provides a range of recreational and educational activities for educators, students, visitors, and residents. The conservancy and the Smith Island Land Trust work on protecting critical habitats on the island through conservation easements and land donations. The conservancy organizes many activities including Guided Kayak Tours; Turtle Walks for observing loggerhead sea turtles coming ashore to nest; Sea Turtle Patrol Ride Along; Birding BHI; Bald Head After Dark; and much more. Each summer, the Conservancy holds camps for all ages.
700 Federal Rd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461, Phone: 910-457-0089
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Step Into the Past with a Scenic Ride on a Bald Head Historic Island Tour
If you are visiting Bald Head Island, you probably know already about its exciting history, spectacular nature and people that shaped its past and its future. The Bald Head Island Historic Tour can help you explore the island in comfort of an open golf cart, while spending two-hours with a tour guide who will tell you the legends and true stories about the island pirates, times of colonization, the U.S. Lighthouse Service, U.S. Life-Saving Service, and how Bald Head became an island resort. You will visit the Smith Island Museum of History, climb Old Baldy Lighthouse, and get 10 percent discount on souvenirs in the Old Baldy Foundation gift shop..
Bald Head Island NC
4. Refuel with Fresh Flavors at the Maritime Market Cafe
Maritime Market is a bright and spacious grocery store on Bald Head Island, North Carolina, that has everything you need in case you get hungry, thirsty or just have a little craving. If you are visiting the island, leave your cooler behind, Maritime Market has fresh local seafood, baked goodies, ice cream, wine and beer and a whole menu of gourmet food prepared in their Café. The café is open for breakfast and lunch and serves pizzas until closing. Breakfast at the café is an island tradition and you will see many locals enjoying Chef Marc Berruet’s creations such as house-made sausages or slow-cooked cheese grits. For lunch you can have one of their rich burgers or deli sandwiches. You can eat at the café and open that bottle of wine you purchased at the market or take it all with you for a picnic while exploring the island.
8 Maritime Way, Bald Head Island, NC 28461, Phone: 910-457-7450
5. If You Want a Peaceful Moment, Visit The Village Chapel of Bald Head Island
The first worship service on Bald Head Island was held on Easter Sunday, 1984, in the cozy lounge of the Bald Head Island Inn. On Easter Sunday, 1985, a sunrise service was held at Old Baldy. This inspired George and Cynthia Mitchell Family to donate the land next to the Lighthouse for the construction of the Village Chapel. The chapel was dedicated on Easter Sunday, 1987, after the sunrise service although the construction was not finished. The chapel was designed by Texas architect Clovis Heimsath in Carolina coastal architectural style. The Chapel layout is a traditional cruciform floor plan. It has seating for 130 persons. Behind the altar, a bay of windows overlooks the marsh providing to the worshippers a beautiful view of Bald Head Creek, Middle Island and Bluff Island in the distance. The Village Chapel is a popular destination for weddings.
105 Light House Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461, Phone: 910-457-1183
Where to Eat on Bald Head Island, NC
- Delphina Coastal Cuisine – Laid-back spot for tacos, margaritas, and casual coastal fare.
- Mojo's on the Harbor – Seafood, steaks, and cocktails with beautiful views of the marina.
- Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub – Family-friendly dining with Southern-inspired favorites and craft drinks.
If you are interested in local events:
- Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade – Quirky and colorful tradition where decorated golf carts roll through town.
- Sea Turtle Walks (June–August) – Join nighttime excursions led by the Conservancy to observe nesting sea turtles.
- Howl at the Moon Parties – Monthly full moon beach parties with music and community fun.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Bald Head Island, NC:
- Southport (20 min by ferry) – Quaint waterfront town with historic homes, boutiques, and Southern charm.
- Fort Fisher State Historic Site (via ferry + drive) – Civil War history, scenic trails, and beach access.
- Kure Beach & Carolina Beach (via ferry + drive) – Family-friendly beach towns with boardwalks and aquariums.
- Oak Island (30 min drive from Southport) – Quiet beaches, lighthouse views, and fishing piers.
- Wilmington (1 hr drive from Southport) – Explore the Riverwalk, shops, historic district, and the Battleship North Carolina.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Bald Head Island located?
- Bald Head Island, historically known as Smith Island, is a village in Brunswick County, North Carolina, on the east side of the Cape Fear River.
- It is part of the Wilmington metropolitan area.
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How can visitors access Bald Head Island?
- The island is accessible by ferry from the town of Southport and by all-terrain vehicle from Fort Fisher.
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What transportation is used on Bald Head Island?
- There are very few cars on the island, and most residents drive electric golf carts.
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What is Bald Head Island known for?
- The island is famous for its sea turtle nesting, picturesque nature, and "Old Baldy," the lighthouse built in 1817 and the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina still standing.
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What is the Village Chapel on Bald Head Island?
- The Village Chapel was dedicated on Easter Sunday, 1987, and was designed by Texas architect Clovis Heimsath in a Carolina coastal architectural style.
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What is the Bald Head Island Conservancy?
- The Bald Head Island Conservancy is a non-profit organization founded in 1983 to promote conservation, preservation, and education about the island.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, great for exploring the island.
Marsh Harbour Inn – A charming waterfront inn with beautiful views.
Visit Old Baldy Lighthouse – Climb to the top for stunning island views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and water sports.
Bald Head Island Vacation Rentals – Spacious homes with oceanfront access.
Relax on East Beach – Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer crowds and pleasant weather, great for outdoor adventures.
The Inn at Bald Head Island – A luxurious and peaceful getaway.
Explore the Bald Head Island Conservancy – Learn about sea turtle conservation efforts.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and cool, ideal for a relaxing retreat.
Private Beach Cottages – Cozy stays with beautiful ocean views.
Take a nature walk through the Maritime Forest – Enjoy serene trails and wildlife spotting.
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