Holden Beach

Holden Beach lies at the eastern end of a long thin barrier island separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway. Easily reached by car, Holden Beach has been voted one of the best family beaches anywhere in the US.

Its soft sands are a great space for having some fun in the sun, while its Atlantic waves are perfect for a quick swim. Surfboards, paddleboards, boats and bikes can all be rented for those looking to take full advantage of their time at Holden Beach. Meanwhile, the Intracoastal Waterway is lined with cafes and restaurants serving up fresh seafood.

By night, it’s possible to watch ghost crabs scuttle about the waterline, while as a known turtle nesting site, hatchlings can also be seen breaking free of their egg-laden nests beneath the sands between May and October.

There are several car parks at Holden Beach, linking to its 23 public access points. However, due to the popularity of the beach in the summer months, it can be difficult to find anywhere to leave your vehicle after mid-morning.