Holden Beach is a small coastal community in southeast North Carolina known for it’s beautiful beaches, nesting sea turtles, and friendly locals. \u00a0It is also known as “The Family Beach.” \u00a0This is due to both the long history of local families in developing and serving the community, along with the quiet, family-friendly atmosphere they strived to protect.<\/p>\n
While Holden Beach is conveniently located between more populated areas Myrtle Beach, SC and Wilmington, NC, the Holden’s and other founding families created a quiet pocket of family-owned beach cottages away from the hustle and bustle of cities.<\/p>\n
Regulations were put in place to prevent over-commercialization along the shore. \u00a0Buildings must conform to heigh limited to maintain a beach cottage environment. \u00a0Commercial property is limited on the island as well.<\/p>\n
Holden Beach has been recognized as a top beach by USA Today and one of the top 10 family beach destinations by National Geographic Traveler’s Magazine.<\/p>\n
The beach was founded in 1756 by Benjamin Holden through a land grant purchase from the royal crown. \u00a0The original land purchase included four mainland tracts and the island between the old Holden Plantation and the ocean.<\/p>\n
Over time, the beach became knows as “Holden’s Beach”–later to commonly be known simply as “Holden Beach.” \u00a0The name would become official in 1969, when the Town of Holden Beach was incorporated by John F. Holden.<\/p>\n
You can read personal stories from John F. Holden in his book: Holden Beach History: As Experienced by John F. Holden<\/a>.<\/p>\n Holden Beach on Facebook<\/a><\/p>\nConnect with Holden Beach<\/h3>\n