Bald Head Island
Having lived in North Carolina for as long as I can remember, it is with no small measure of chagrin that I confess to having overlooked a true gem of the Southeast: Bald Head Island. The mere notion of a pristine island hideaway, steeped in history and natural beauty, yet located within just a few hours drive of my own backyard, seems almost too good to be true. And yet, here we are, with this idyllic retreat lying just beyond the horizon, beckoning with its siren call of adventure and discovery. It is high time that I answer that call, and set forth to explore the wonders of Bald Head Island for myself.
Bald Head Island is truly one of North Carolina's best-kept secrets. The mere sight of it evokes the sensation of being transported to a Caribbean island or perhaps even lounging in the upscale elegance of The Hamptons, but with charm and
charisma that only the south can provide. Well, let's face it - I am biased to southern hospitality. I have always had a love affair with the coast of North Carolina, but this little gem has deepened that love just a little more.
Growing up in eastern North Carolina, I've been raised on tales of the state's most treasured secrets. And yet, none have intrigued me quite as much as the elusive whispers of Bald Head Island. It's almost unfathomable to conceive of a destination where automobiles are forbidden, and the invigorating salty breeze is best savored on foot, by bike, or by golf cart.
Like a long-lost pirate treasure buried at sea, the delights of Bald Head Island are veiled in secrecy, waiting to be discovered. I have always thought of Bald Head Island as a private island, only to be uncovered by invitation. While this concept is absurd, this is not a place that brags about its virtues or aggressively markets itself to tourists.
During a recent day trip to Southport, NC (which is a story worth telling on its own), I was intrigued to uncover the charm of Bald Head Island. So, I tossed Shadow (my beloved brindle pug) in the car and set off only two miles to the Deep Point Marina. From the moment I arrived at the marina, I could sense a palpable shift in the atmosphere. It was as if I had been transported to another realm, where the unhurried pace of "island time" prevailed and the cares of the outside world melted away.
Travelers were unloading luggage, bikes, and beach chairs, and almost every family had their dog in tow. The dock was a flurry of activity, families mingled freely, united in the excitement of their impending island adventure.Children formed new friendships and made plans to reconvene on the beach once they arrived.
It felt as if I had journeyed back in time, to an era when the concept of being constantly connected to technology was simply inconceivable. Instead, the focus was on the cherished bonds between family and the thrill of making new friends.
As the ferry pulled away from the dock, I found myself immersed in a rare and delightful sense of community. My fellow passengers seemed to be fully present in the moment - a rarity in this age of constant connectivity, relishing the chance to connect with one another and savor the thrill of adventure. Striking up a conversation with a friendly family from the Raleigh area, we discovered that our sons had been on opposing teams on the lacrosse field in the previous school year. The ferry was alive with the energy of over a hundred passengers and their furry friends, and for that brief crossing over the Cape Fear River, everything felt like it was in perfect harmony, like I was in the middle of a novel and the story was about to unfold.
As the ferry made its approach to the island, I was struck by the remarkable sense of preservation that seemed to envelop everything. The stately beach homes, nestled among the trees and shoreline, looked as though they had been an organic part of the landscape for centuries. It was a testament to the island's deep-rooted commitment to conservation, one of the many intriguing charms that this enigmatic destination holds. Scattered throughout the island, families and friends basked in the sun on their decks, savoring drinks and taking in the nature that surrounded them.
As we disembarked from the ferry, we were greeted by the welcoming sight of rows of golf carts, accompanied by a team of friendly drivers. These trusty steeds stood ready to carry us and our luggage to our temporary island homes. With Shadow in tow, we hopped onto our cart and set out to explore the island, giddy with excitement and a sense of wonder that only Bald Head Island could inspire.
Bald Head Island beckons with its expansive 14-mile stretch of unspoiled shoreline and pristine maritime forests, a nature lover's paradise that begs to be explored on foot. Though you won't find any gaudy shopping malls, chain restaurants, or intrusive stoplights here, Bald Head Island is a destination that welcomes travelers of all ages, with plenty of delightful activities to keep you entertained no matter your interests or passions. During the summer months, the Bald Head Island Conservancy offers fun-filled children's camps that feature arts and crafts, science experiments, crabbing, shelling, and educational sessions focused on the island's unique ecosystem. The Shoal's Club, meanwhile, serves up a delightful smorgasbord of family-friendly activities, including volleyball and bocce ball. Families can also join the Sea Turtle Patrol, lending a hand in protecting these majestic creatures and their nests. Efforts to safeguard Bald Head Island's sea turtles date back to 1980, with the BHI Conservancy leading the way in coordination with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the National Marine Fisheries Service. The island has been designated as an "index beach" by the NMFS, underscoring its nationally recognized sea turtle protection program and highlighting its unwavering commitment to conservation.
Bald Head Island is home to “Old Baldy,” the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina, recently celebrating 200 years! Built in 1817, the most important purpose of Old Baldy was to mark the Cape Fear River entrance for the maritime sailors. It was originally built of red bricks and covered with stucco. In the early days, the innkeeper would whitewash the lighthouse every two years. The whitewash protected the stucco and when it was deactivated in 1935 large pieces of stucco began to fall off. Occasionally someone would come along and patch the lighthouse with new stucco, however, they did not use the same stucco that was used in 1817. Although today Old Baldy resembles the trademarks of a patchwork quilt, it was completely white in its hay day.
For those who may not be up for the climb to the top of Old Baldy (it's quite the workout!), a visit to the Smith Island Museum is sure to transport you back in time, through the storied history of Bald Head Island. Did you know that the island played a crucial role in the Revolutionary War, serving as home to a British fort and hospital? And in the early 1900s, visitors flocked to the island to hunt wild pigs! Take a guided tour and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Bald Head Island's history, from its first appearance on maps in the 1500s all the way to the island's development in the 1980s.
Whether you're seeking some much-needed solitude or simply looking to indulge in a little self-care, Bald Head Island offers an abundance of options to help you unwind. Tuck yourself away in the charming island library, where you can cozy up with a good book and let the soothing sound of the sea wash over you. Alternatively, treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering at the Island Retreat Spa and Salon, where you can indulge in a luxurious pedicure, facial, or massage to leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. And if you're an early riser in search of a delicious breakfast spot, look no further than the Maritime Market, where local favorites like the seafood omelet and crepes are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Bald Head Island is the perfect destination for a getaway with friends or loved ones. Grab your bestie and head to the Bald Head Island Club for a friendly game of tennis, or hit the links with the guys for a leisurely round of golf. Afterward, take a romantic bike ride with your sweetheart to Mojo’s on the Harbor for a delicious dinner and drinks. For a more adventurous experience, rent a couple of kayaks or a canoe and set out to explore the island's stunning views by boat. Even if you prefer a more laid-back approach to your stay, the island's natural beauty is sure to captivate you and leave a lasting impression. With so many activities and attractions to choose from, Bald Head Island is a trip you'll cherish forever.