The next time your family takes a beach vacation, be sure to include your beloved four-legged family member. Dog-friendly vacation rentals make a Holden Beach getaway as easy as one, two, three. This blog post is your guide to a paw-fect vacation with man's best friend. Read on to discover the best Holden Beach pet-friendly activities and other important information.
Stay in a Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental
As your premier vacation rental management company, Coastal Vacation Resorts is delighted to offer a wide selection of dog-friendly rentals in Holden Beach. Why leave your fur baby at home when they deserve a vacation also? Please browse our selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals and find one that is paw-fect for your family. Whether you are looking for a rental for a couple's getaway or the entire extended family, we can accommodate one well-behaved dog per household (unless otherwise approved by the homeowner). A non-refundable $250 (plus tax) pet fee is required before check-in.
Great Place is a beauitful oceanfront rental with accommodations for 12 guests (Fido makes 13!). Another fantastic options for those who don't need as much space is Yellow Bird. This two-bedroom rental sleeps four and would make an ideal home-base for your beach vacation.
Click here for more information about staying with your dog at a Coastal Vacation Resorts property.
What to Pack for Your Pup
If you are bringing your dog on vacation, you will need to pack a suitcase for them also. Here are some items you will want to add to your pup-friendly packing list.
- Doggie Beach Towels
- Dog Food
- Food & Water Bowl
- Collar with ID Tags
- Leash
- Extra Leash (it's always good to have a backup)
- Dog Shampoo
- Dog Crate
- Dog Bed & Blanket
- Toys (Be sure to bring a frisbee and tennis balls)
- Treats & Bones
- Water
- Travel Water Bowl
- Pet-Waste Bags
Pet Stores Near Holden Beach
In the event you forget something for your dog, there are several pet stores nearby that you can visit. These local pet stores are also an excellent resource for dog-friendly events and happenings.
PetSmart - 131-1 Smith Ave, Shallotte, NC
PetSense - 110 Shallotte Crossing Pkwy, Shallotte, NC
Pet Supplies Plus - 2823 Midway Rd SE, Bolivia, NC
Pet-Friendly Activities at the Beach
There are many fun things to do with your dog during your Holden Beach vacation. Town ordinances require that your pet be leashed at all times while on the island and that you clean up after your pet. Your dog is going to love long walks on the beach and playing fetch in the surf. If you are visiting during the off-season, dogs are permitted on the beach at any time while on a leash. However, from May 10th through September 10th, dogs are only allowed on the beach between 5:00 pm and 9:00 am.
Here are a few of our favorite dog-friendly activities:
- Play fetch or frisbee
- Go for a walk in your neighborhood
- Go for a walk or run on the beach
- Paddleboard and Kayak
- Dine at a local restaurant (see below)
Important Note: The sand and pavement are VERY HOT during the summer months. Please remember that your dog does not have flip-flops on! Test the temperature of the ground before letting them walk on hot surfaces.
Pet Clinics and Animal Hospitals
We hope you and your pet both have a safe and enjoyable vacation. However, there are times when emergencies or unforeseen circumstances arise, and you need a veterinarian or animal hospital.
Brunswick Animal Hospital - 948 Ocean Hwy W, Supply, NC
Oak Island Animal Hospital - 5520 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Holden Beach
Mermaid's Island Grill - 102 Jordan Blvd, Holden Beach, NC
Mermaid's Island Grill serves up American-style menu options including salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers, seafood, chicken, steak, and more. Your dog is welcome to join you at one of the outdoor tables on the patio. Enjoy a cold drink and a delicious meal. They will even offer your pup a fresh bowl of water.
Saltwater Shanty - 1027 Sabbath Home Rd SW, Holden Beach, NC
A local favorite, Saltwater Shanty is a dog-friendly ice cream shop on the island. Your doggy is invited to join you under an umbrella on the outdoor patio. Humans can indulge in a sweet homemade ice cream treat!
Sunset Slush - 111 Jordan Blvd, Holden Beach, NC
Are you even on a beach vacation if you don't visit Sunset Slush? Your dog is welcome at this walk-up Italian ice and dessert shop. They serve a variety of delicious treats that will cure any sweet tooth.
Castaways Raw Bar & Grill - 112 Ocean Blvd W, Holden Beach, NC
Calling all castaways, dogs included! Castaways Raw Bar and Grill is a dog-friendly restaurant with outdoor tables in the picnic area by the sand. Your pup can join us as you sample the fresh local seafood options for lunch or dinner.
We hope this guide has been helpful for planning your next pet-friendly vacation to Holden Beach! We look forward to seeing you and your pup soon.
Book your family (fur baby included) getaway today!