When you visit Holden Beach, you’ll be captivated by its serene beauty and small-town charm. While many come for the tranquil atmosphere and sun-soaked beaches, real adventurers yearn to discover the lesser known attractions and hidden gems throughout the town. From the whimsical world of folk art to exploring by bike, these off-the-beaten-path experiences offer a glimpse into the character and rich history of Holden Beach. Not only will you enhance your vacation with these experiences, but you’ll also get a chance to genuinely connect with the authentic spirit of our charming seaside town.
Must-Try Hidden Gem Experiences in Holden Beach
Mary’s Gone Wild: A Unique Art Showcase
Imagine stumbling upon a kaleidoscope of colors, whimsical sculptures, and folk art that seems to have sprouted right out of the coastal soil. That's exactly what you'll find at Mary's Gone Wild, a true Holden Beach treasure that never fails to bring a smile to your face. The moment you step onto the property, you're transported into the vibrant world of Mary Paulsen, a local artist who experienced a vision that inspired her to create art from recycled materials. Since then, her home has blossomed into a wonderland of bottle houses, colorful paintings, and quirky installations.
Don't be surprised if you find yourself losing track of time as you explore. Every nook and cranny holds a new discovery, whether it's a whimsical sculpture made from discarded toys or a mural that tells a story of coastal life. And the best part? Admission is free, though donations are always appreciated to help maintain this incredible space.
Holden Golden Mailbox: A Glimpse into Local Experiences
As you stroll through Holden Beach you may notice a lone mailbox in the most unusual places. Don’t worry though, there are no bills or piles of junk mail here; these mailboxes are actually filled with letters, poems, and more. Similar to the “Kindred Spirit” mailbox on Sunset Beach, the Holden Golden mailboxes invite visitors to leave behind a piece of themselves: memories of their adventures, stories, dreams, and more. Like all Holden Beach hidden gems, there is a slight adventure that comes with finding the three mailboxes, and we’ve got some hints for you!
East End: This mailbox faces Oak Island and is on the far east end of the island. Half a mile from where the pavement turns to gravel, you’ll see this mailbox among the dunes.
West End: For the truly adventurous, this mailbox sits two miles behind a gated community on Ocean Blvd. Round the bend toward Ocean Isle Beach across from Shallot Inlet. This mailbox sits on the edge of the dunes past the last house on the western point.
Sailfish Park: This is the easiest mailbox to find on Sailfish Drive. There’s public parking along the Intracoastal Waterway. There are picnic tables nearby offering the perfect spot to read letters and even write your own.
With each letter you read or write, you’ll be connected to a vast network of travelers craving an interesting way to connect with strangers. Keep your eyes peeled for these mailboxes across Holden Beach and you may find yourself inspired to leave something behind for your next visit.
The Olden Holden Bike Tour: Cycle Through Holden Beach’s History
Strap on your helmet and get ready for a historic ride with the Olden Holden bike tour. This is hands down the most interactive way to explore the rich history of Holden Beach. There are three different routes you can use to explore Holden Beach.
The pink route explores the East End of Holden Beach taking you from the Ocean View Tavern to the Holden Beach Pavilion where summer concerts are held.
The blue route offers a unique look into history and a beautiful rest stop overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.
The red route explores the beautiful parks near the West End and wraps up at the Coast Guard lookout point.
You can rent bikes from several shops in town or you can book a Holden Beach vacation rental with free beach gear and use one of our bikes! The best time for the tour is early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is milder and the light is perfect for photos. This hidden gem is perfect for history buffs looking to see some sites or casual cyclists that enjoy an adventure, so be sure to check it out the next time you visit.
Explore Holden Beach in Style with Coastal Vacation Resorts
The Holden Golden Mailbox serves as a constant reminder of the enchantment that may be discovered in the most unlikely places, while Mary's Gone Wild is a testament to the power of imagination and sense of community. With the Olden Holden Bike Tour, we can pedal across history and create a fully immersive experience that links the past and present. These unique attractions and other hidden gems reward the inquisitive and adventurous traveler.
To truly uncover the wonders of Holden Beach, consider booking your stay with Coastal Vacation Resorts in Holden Beach. As local experts helping you plan your vacation, we’ll guide you to the best local experiences and offer beautiful Holden Beach vacation rentals that get you closer to making lasting memories. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Holden Beach has something special waiting for you. So pack your sense of wonder, book with Coastal Vacation Resorts, and embark on your own journey to discover the hidden treasures of Holden Beach!
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