Bald Head Island North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bald Head Island, North Carolina.
1. Bald Head Island Lighthouse (Old Baldy)
HISTORIC MARITIME BEACON
Old Baldy, built in 1817, is North Carolina's oldest lighthouse and a significant historic site on Bald Head Island. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters. The lighthouse was commissioned by Thomas Jefferson and has undergone restoration projects by the non-profit Old Baldy Foundation to preserve this important piece of maritime history.
2. The Village Chapel of Bald Head Island
CHARMING ISLAND SANCTUARY
The Village Chapel of Bald Head Island features remarkable architecture that makes it a standout attraction on the island. This charming church offers a peaceful sanctuary for reflection and worship amidst the natural beauty of the island. Visitors frequently comment on its unique design and serene atmosphere, making it worth a visit for anyone exploring Bald Head Island.
3. Kent Mitchell Nature Trail
SCENIC MARITIME EXPLORATION
The Kent Mitchell Nature Trail offers visitors a self-guided 20-minute walk through Bald Head Island's pristine maritime forest and along salt marshes and tidal creeks. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking and hiking within this protected area rich with diverse coastal ecosystems. The trail provides an excellent opportunity to experience the island's natural beauty and observe local wildlife in their native habitat.
4. Smith Island Museum
ISLAND HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Smith Island Museum offers a fascinating look at Bald Head Island's rich history and cultural heritage. Located next to Old Baldy Lighthouse, the museum provides insight into how early lighthouse keepers lived and worked on the island. Visitors can purchase combined tickets for both the museum and lighthouse climb to fully experience this historical attraction.
5. Bald Head Island Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Bald Head Island Club features a championship golf course recognized by Golf Week magazine as one of the nation's top resort courses. This private country club is centrally located on the island and offers three restaurants along with various resort amenities. The George Cobb-designed course provides golfers with a challenging and scenic experience surrounded by the island's natural beauty.
6. Island Retreat Spa & Salon
LUXURIOUS WELLNESS DESTINATION
Island Retreat Spa & Salon offers visitors a rejuvenating escape with premium wellness treatments in a tranquil island setting. Their highly-rated services provide the perfect way to relax and unwind during a Bald Head Island vacation. Guests can indulge in a variety of spa and salon treatments designed to enhance their island getaway experience.
7. Bald Head Island Conservancy
COASTAL RESEARCH CENTER
The Bald Head Island Conservancy is a non-profit organization founded in 1983 dedicated to conservation, education and preservation of the island's natural environment. Their Barrier Island Study Center campus, located near the base of the Cape Fear Light, is open to the public and offers educational programs. The Conservancy conducts special seasonal activities including turtle walks at night and alligator and bird walks in the morning, providing unique wildlife experiences for visitors.
8. Riverside Adventure Company
OUTDOOR EXPLORATION SPECIALISTS
Riverside Adventure Company offers guided outdoor activities and equipment rentals for exploring Bald Head Island's natural areas. Visitors can experience the island's protected creeks and maritime forest through various adventure programs. Their services provide a fantastic way to actively engage with the island's diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes.
9. The Shoals Club
OCEANFRONT RECREATION CENTER
The Shoals Club, located at 100 Station House Way, offers a variety of programs for families visiting Bald Head Island. Their recreational activities include movies, games, and story times designed to entertain guests of all ages. The club provides an excellent social hub and entertainment venue during island stays.
10. Bald Head Island Beaches
PRISTINE COASTAL RETREAT
Bald Head Island's beaches offer visitors miles of pristine shoreline perfect for relaxation and recreation. These unspoiled beaches provide excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, shell collecting, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. Spending a day at these beaches is considered an essential experience when visiting the island.
11. Maritime Market
ISLAND GROCERY HUB
Maritime Market serves as the primary grocery and provisions store for visitors and residents of Bald Head Island. The market offers a selection of fresh foods, specialty items, and island necessities in a convenient central location. Visitors appreciate the market's deli section which provides prepared foods perfect for beach picnics and cottage meals.
12. Turtle Beach Access
SCENIC SHORELINE ENTRY
Turtle Beach Access provides a convenient entry point to one of Bald Head Island's most beautiful beach areas. This popular access point is known for its sea turtle nesting sites during the summer months, offering potential wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors will find amenities like boardwalks that protect the dunes while providing easy beach entry.
13. Mojo's on the Harbor
WATERFRONT ISLAND DINING
Mojo's on the Harbor offers waterfront dining with spectacular views of the marina on Bald Head Island. The restaurant serves fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Visitors enjoy dining on the deck while watching boats come and go from the harbor, making it a popular spot for sunset meals.
14. Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal
GATEWAY TO ISLAND ADVENTURES
The Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal in Southport serves as the mainland departure point for travelers heading to the car-free island. Passenger ferries run regularly throughout the day, transporting visitors on the approximately 20-minute journey across the Cape Fear River. The terminal includes parking facilities, a ticket office, and a small shop where travelers can purchase essentials before departing.
15. Southport Waterfront Park
COASTAL TOWN VIEWPOINT
Southport Waterfront Park offers stunning views of the Cape Fear River and is just a short distance from the Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal. This scenic park features a fishing pier, swings, benches, and picnic areas where visitors can relax while watching boats navigate the waterway. The park serves as a perfect spot to explore before or after a trip to Bald Head Island, showcasing the charm of coastal North Carolina.