Nestled between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Bald Head Island is the hidden gem of North Carolina that is only shared between families and closest of friends. The five-mile island is only accessible by ferry and transportation comes in the form of a golf cart or bicycle so when you explore the canopy roads and countless beach accesses you’re fully immersed in the salt air and natural beauty of the island.

The History of Bald Head Island

With many names including Smith Island and Palmetto Island, Bald Head Island has hosted several owners and many occupants including, pirates like Stede Bonnet, British troops who built Fort George on the southwestern corner of the island, and Confederate soldiers who constructed Fort Holmes in 1863.

The most prominent ode to the island’s diverse history is Old Baldy, the oldest lighthouse on the North Carolina coast which was completed in 1817. The lighthouse still functions today and is open to visitors to climb all the way to the top for a panoramic view of the Cape Fear River and island.

In 1970 the Cape Fear Corporation purchased the island from a developer and honored the wishes of residents and locals to preserve the natural beauty of the island against major development. Three-fourths of Smith Island, its marshes, the east beach, Bluff, Battery, and Striking islands were deeded to the state of North Carolina for conservation (Bald Head Island Association).

Visitors can now walk the vast trails of the North Carolina Forest Preserve located on Bald Head Island and view Timmon’s Oak - a 400-year-old live oak along with palmetto palms, deer, ibis, and other wildlife.

A Serene Escape

The preservation efforts of the Bald Head Island Conservancy and Bald Head Island Limited have created an exclusive, serene escape for those searching for secluded beaches, star-filled skies, and peaceful mornings to make every moment cherished. The island hosts 2,000 homes for full-time residents and travelers along with two private clubs, The Shoals Club and the Bald Head Island Club. Local restaurants like Delphina’s and Jule’s salty grub island pub allow guests to dine on the freshest seafood and cool down with delicious cocktails.

Upon your departure by ferry from the Deep Point Marina in Southport, you’ll immediately feel at ease with the breeze on your back and your luggage safely stowed by ferry staff. Your thirty-minute voyage across the Cape Fear River and through the Atlantic will tour you past the Oak Island lighthouse and Fort Caswell before being welcomed by Old Baldy overlooking the marina. Once you disembark the ferry, your ticket fare includes transportation by tram to your rental house. If you’re touring the island for the day, a brief 2-minute walk to Cary Cart Rentals to rent a golf cart or bicycle from Riverside Adventure Co or Coastal Urge. Take Federal Road all the way down to Access 39 or East Beach to see the southeasternmost point of North Carolina that looks out towards the Shoals or make a right on Bald Head Wynd to follow the coast of South Beach.

If you’re looking for more than just another vacation rental, we recommend booking with BHI Turtle Time Vacations. They provide exceptional care of the homes (we know, they manage The Palmetto Place for us) and provide upscale services to all guests like beach chair set up, daily cleanings, grocery delivery, and luxury picnic arrangements, and yacht rentals.