The Inn at Bald Head Island

First-Time Visitor’s Guide: Insider Tips for a Relaxing Stay on Bald Head Island

There’s something special about arriving on Bald Head Island. The moment you step off the ferry, the pace slows, the air feels lighter, and before long, you’ll leave your mainland worries behind.

If this is your first visit, you may have a few questions. What should you pack? How does the ferry work? Do you need dinner reservations? As innkeepers at The Inn at Bald Head Island, we’ve welcomed countless first-time guests, and we’ve gathered a few insider tips to help make your stay as relaxing and worry-free as possible.

Pack Light—and Pack Smart

One of the best things about Bald Head Island is how uncomplicated life becomes. Since there are no cars on the island, you won’t need many of the things you typically pack for a beach vacation.

Here’s what we recommend bringing:

·         Comfortable, casual clothing

·         Swimsuits and a cover-up

·         Flip-flops or sandals for the beach

·         Comfortable walking shoes for exploring

·         A light sweater or jacket for evening breezes

·         Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat

·         Insect repellent if you plan to hike in the forest

·         A reusable water bottle

·         A small backpack or tote for day trips

For evening dining in the Bald Head Island Club’s main clubhouse, slacks or dress shorts along with collared shirts are required for gentlemen, so you’ll want to keep that in mind if you plan to dine there.

Don’t worry about bringing beach gear. Guests at The Inn enjoy complimentary beach chairs, towels and umbrellas, making it easy to head out for a day by the ocean.

Know Before You Board the Ferry

Your island vacation begins with a scenic ferry ride across the Cape Fear River. Arriving at the Deep Point ferry terminal in Southport at least 30 minutes before departure gives you time to check luggage, park your car and board without feeling rushed. You’ll find restrooms in the lobby on the upper level of the terminal.

A few helpful tips:

·         Keep medications, valuables, and anything you’ll want during the ride in a small carry-on bag.

·         Label your luggage clearly before checking it.

·         Take a seat outside if the weather is nice—the views of the Southport waterfront are beautiful and you may spot a huge container ship traveling upriver to the port of Wilmington.

Once you arrive on Bald Head Island, you’ll claim your luggage and board a tram that will bring you directly to The Inn. For $75 per day, you can rent a golf cart from The Inn to get around or you may prefer to travel by bike (complimentary with your stay).

Reserve Summer Dining Early

Summer is one of the busiest—and most enjoyable—times to visit Bald Head Island. Popular restaurants can fill quickly, especially around holidays and weekends.

If there’s a restaurant you’ve been looking forward to trying, make reservations before you arrive whenever possible. This is especially true for dinner at the Bald Head Island Club (call 910-477-5010) and Shoals Club (910-454-4888).

Of course, some of the best meals are the simplest. Linger over your complimentary breakfast at The Inn before setting out for the day, then grab sandwiches to go from the Maritime Market or Mike’s Bites for a beach picnic.

Our team is always happy to recommend favorite dining venues and help point you toward the perfect spot.

Slow Down and Explore Nature

One of the greatest luxuries on Bald Head Island is simply having time to notice the natural world around you.

Instead of rushing from activity to activity, leave room in your schedule to:

·         Bike beneath the island’s centuries-old live oaks.

·         Walk the quiet beaches at sunrise.

·         Explore the maritime forest trails.

·         Watch for nesting sea turtles or hatchings (typically May-October).

·         Look for dolphins just offshore.

·         Climb Old Baldy Lighthouse for panoramic island views.

·         Pause at the marshes to spot egrets, herons and ibises feeding.

You’ll quickly discover that some of the island’s best moments aren’t planned—they simply happen when you slow down enough to enjoy them.

Embrace Island Time

Visitors often tell us their favorite part of Bald Head Island isn’t a particular attraction—it’s the feeling. Without traffic or the constant rush of everyday life, you’ll naturally find yourself settling into a slower rhythm.

Leave your phone in your room for a while.

Take the long way on your bike ride.

Sleep in.

You’ll be surprised how restorative it feels.

Let Us Help

Whether you’re wondering where to watch the sunset (apart from The Inn’s porch!), looking for the perfect beach access, planning a hike, or searching for the best place for dinner, don’t hesitate to ask. We love sharing our favorite island spots with guests, and we’re always happy to offer recommendations tailored to your interests.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Inn and helping you discover why so many first-time visitors become lifelong island guests. Explore our available rooms.