A vacation to Holden Beach promises lazy days in the sand, exhilarating water sports, and fresh and tasty seafood dishes at local restaurants. Vacation is a time to relax and recharge, it can also provide a chance to give back to the community. Supporting local businesses is one of the most effective ways to contribute to Holden Beach, however, you’ll quickly find yourself enjoying a shopping spree at the boutiques and restaurants exclusive to the town. While this still makes for a fun vacation, getting your hands dirty and volunteering at Holden Beach is ten times more rewarding! From donating unused vacation items to protecting the beach in many ways, there are plenty of opportunities to support Holden Beach community members during your trip to this laid-back seaside town.
Donate Unused Goods to "A Second Helping" (ASH)
Giving back in Holden Beach is as simple as setting aside time to stop at Beach Mart before hitting the road. From Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, you can drop off your donations every Saturday between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM in the Beach Mart parking lot. Donate leftover perishables and non-perishable items to help Loaves & Fishes Pantry feed those in need. Non-food items such as hygiene essentials and clothes go to the Brunswick Christian Recovery Center. If you are heading out before Saturday, you can leave non-perishable items at Sharon Methodist Church at 2030 Holden Beach Rd.
After soaking up the sun and unwinding on the beautiful shores of Holden Beach, you have a unique opportunity to declutter before returning home while supporting local organizations and community members. It’s a win-win act that reduces waste and offers a helping hand in Holden Beach. What better way to contribute to the Holden Beach community than keeping it clean?
Volunteer for Holden Beach Cleanup & Wildlife Preservation Efforts
Visitors play a vital role in preserving Holden Beach’s most critical asset – the incredible scenery and wildlife habitats. The small-town charm of Holden Beach makes it a refreshing getaway with a sense of seclusion. The wide stretch of sandy shores and tranquil marshlands lure travelers in, providing a relaxing and authentic beach vacation. By giving back through local conservation efforts like beach sweeps, turtle nest monitoring, and chances for environmental education, you can ensure you do your part during your stay.
International Coastal Cleanup Day
Cleaning up the beach is a big task fit for the entire community to help with. In September, International Coastal Cleanup Day encourages community members and tourists to take part in cleaning up the beach. The collected trash is then documented and studied to inform the governments about the types of trash on Holden Beach. This year, International Coastal Cleanup Day is September 21, 2024; a perfect task for family and friends to help with during your Holden Beach summer vacation!
The Holden Beach Turtle Watch Program
Turtle nesting season in Holden Beach officially begins May 1st through October 31st. During this time, Turtle Watch Program volunteers start patrolling the beach at dawn looking for nests and turtle crawls. Observe nesting sites to ensure they are safe and away from distractions on the beach. Help keep an eye on the nest until all the hatchlings are released and take count of surviving turtles in every nest. If you’re on the beach and come across a stranded turtle or a mother making a nest, call the Holden Beach Turtle Watch Program anytime at 901-754-0766.
Make it a family affair to learn more about protecting sea turtles during nesting season! The Turtle Watch Program offers free summer educational programs like Turtle Talk and Children’s Turtle Time! Keeping your family informed about turtles and nesting season is the perfect way to teach and learn beach etiquette during your vacation.
To apply to be a volunteer, send an email to coordinator@hbturtlewatch.org and ask for an application. You can also fill out the contact form on the website!
Plan the Perfect Volunteer Vacation with Coastal Vacation Resorts
Planning a memorable vacation to Holden Beach is more than the pretty beaches and exciting activities. True fulfillment comes from connecting with the people, culture, and natural landscape. Whether you’re donating unused goods, scouring the shoreline for litter, or monitoring turtle nests, giving back provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience Holden Beach. You’ll meet passionate locals and learn how your efforts help preserve the beauty of the beach for future visitors.
Don’t forget to refuel during your volunteer vacation with a cozy accommodation from Coastal Vacation Resorts. Volunteer to keep the beach clean with an oceanfront vacation rental in Holden Beach or stay closer in town to live like the locals. No matter which rental you choose to book, you’ll have a comfortable retreat waiting after a long day of giving back to the community.