10 Tips When Traveling to Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island is truly the place to go to get away from it all. The pace is slower, the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed, and the area’s natural beauty can be seen with every step. Since it is an island, here are some suggestions and reminders for planning your trip and leaving the mainland behind: 

1- To reach the island, ferries take passengers from the marina in Southport to the shores of Bald Head Island. These ferries are on a schedule and tickets need to be purchased in advance. Check the schedule and make tram reservations here.  

2- BHI is a subtropical island with beaches, marsh and maritime forest preserves. Pack accordingly for warm and cool weather. Don’t forget a swimsuit for the beach and swimming pools! If you plan on playing golf or croquet, check ahead of time for the required club attire.  

3- No liquor is available for purchase on the island. However, wine and beer are sold at the Maritime Market. Check the store’s hours so your trip to get groceries is a successful one. For recipe ideas, you can browse through our own recipes on Pinterest.  

4- BHI is pet friendly so you don’t have to leave the family pup at home. For some special tips on traveling with your pet, look here. Check our rentals for “pet-friendly” to see which homes allow pets. Along with miles of land to exercise, the island also has a dog park.  

5- Don’t forget a camera! The island is full of stunning views and historic sites. Tours are available throughout the year to get even more of a glimpse into BHI history. Old Baldy lighthouse gives the best view of the island.  

6- No need to travel with all your own beach gear. Riverside Adventure Company provides rentals on a daily and weeklong basis. Beach equipment as well as fun games are available to rent. Beach & Baby Equipment Rental and Coastal Urge also offer rentals like beach gear and a variety of bicycles. For surfboards or boogie boards, you can go to the Sail Shop. 

7- Bald Head Island Limited provides towels and linens in each rental. Startup items are available but extras can be purchased at the Market like toiletries, extra trash bags and detergents.

8- Fishing is permitted but a North Carolina fishing license is required for everyone over 16. To purchase one, go to http://www.ncwildlife.org/. Offshore fishing trips can be arranged and many charter boats carry blanket licenses that will allow fishing from the boat without a personal license.  

9- When selecting your vacation dates, take into account the many exciting events that occur year round on the island. Holiday festivities are always a hit and many enjoy the Howl at the Moon beach parties. 

10- Last, but not least, leave room in your luggage for gifts and souvenirs! All About Art is a charming gallery in Merchant’s Row that features paintings, photography, and handmade jewelry by local and national artists. There are also retail shops with clothing, hats and accessories to purchase a little memento of your trip.  
  
  

Published on Wednesday, July 15, 2015