Holden Beach Webcam: NC Seaside Oasis
Tucked away on the southern coastline of North Carolina, Holden Beach is a charming seaside town nestled in Brunswick County. This peaceful barrier island stretches along the Atlantic Ocean and offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life that feels worlds away from the everyday hustle. Connected to the mainland by the Holden Beach Bridge, which gracefully spans the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the island invites you to cross over into a world of sun, sand, and salt air. Thanks to the Holden Beach Webcam, you can enjoy a virtual peek at this coastal gem anytime—watch the waves roll in, see the golden sands, and take in the calming ocean breeze, all from the comfort of your home. It’s the perfect way to experience the charm of Holden Beach before you visit. And if the view stirs something in your soul, you’re in luck—we’ve included a selection of Holden Beach NC rentals to help you start planning your getaway.
Check Out the Holden Beach Webcam
The Holden Beach Webcam is a great way to see what’s happening on the island in real time. Whether you’re planning a visit or just missing the view, the live camera feed brings the beach to you. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, the webcam offers a clear look at current weather, wave conditions, and even traffic activity.
One of the most popular views is of the Holden Beach Bridge. You can watch as cars and trucks travel across the bridge, pouring onto the island from the mainland. It’s a peaceful yet fascinating scene that captures the slow rhythm of island life. From sunrise to sunset, the live stream gives you a front-row seat to Holden Beach’s natural beauty.
If you’re considering a trip, the webcam helps you picture the experience before you arrive. It’s the perfect way to stay connected to the coast—anytime, anywhere.
Things to Do in Holden Beach, NC
Explore the Peaceful Shores
Holden Beach is one of North Carolina’s hidden gems. Nestled in the Brunswick Islands, this family-friendly beach town offers a quiet escape with plenty of things to see and do. Its wide, sandy beaches stretch for miles, making it ideal for long walks, sunbathing, or collecting seashells. Whether you want to relax or get active, Holden Beach has something for everyone.
Go Fishing — Onshore or Offshore
Fishing is a favorite activity in Holden Beach. Locals and visitors alike enjoy casting lines from the Holden Beach Pier, a classic spot for surf fishing. While the pier is currently closed for upgrades, it’s usually a go-to for beginners and seasoned anglers.
If you want to go deeper, book a fishing charter. Catch 22 Charters, Ollie Raja Charters, and Southern Shores Excursions offer guided trips on the ocean or Intracoastal Waterway. Try your luck with flounder, trout, or Spanish mackerel near the shore. For something bigger, head offshore for mahi, wahoo, or tuna.
Take a Scenic Water Cruise
Prefer a peaceful ride over fishing? Check out Cruisin’ Tikis Holden Beach. They offer morning and sunset cruises on the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a great way to enjoy the water without the hassle of planning a trip.
Hit the Golf Course
For land lovers, golf is a popular pastime here. Holden Beach is near some top-tier golf courses. Within 20 minutes, you can tee off at Lockwood Folly Country Club, Carolina National Golf Club, or Rivers Edge Golf Club in Shallotte. Designed by Arnold Palmer, Rivers Edge ranks among the top courses in the state.
Enjoy Outdoor Family Fun
A beach day is a must. But there’s more to do outdoors. Local outfitters rent out everything from jet skis to surfboards. You can also bike around town, exploring scenic routes and coastal views. Try a ride to Bridgeview Park, where you’ll find a splash pad, playground, bocce ball courts, picnic areas, and a pier with docks.
Looking for quiet beauty? Walk or bike to the eastern end of the island. During low tide, it’s perfect for bird watching and shelling. You might even find a fossilized sea biscuit.
Attend Local Festivals
If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the NC Festival by the Sea or the Day at the Docks Festival. These events showcase local food, crafts, music, and culture. They’re great fun for families and offer a glimpse into the laid-back lifestyle of Holden Beach.
Bring Your Pet Along
Holden Beach is pet-friendly, too! From September 11 to May 19, leashed dogs are welcome all day. In summer, they’re allowed before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. It’s the perfect way to include your furry friend in the family fun.
Where to Eat and Drink
There’s no shortage of tasty spots in Holden Beach. If you want seafood with a view, check out these local favorites:
- Provision Company – Famous for shrimp burgers and views of the Intracoastal Waterway
- Castaway’s Raw Bar – Enjoy oysters and live music
- Mermaid’s Island Grill – A mix of Greek flair and coastal classics
- SmacNally’s Waterfront Grill – Newly opened in 2024 with stunning views
- Dock House Seafood – Casual waterfront dining with a full menu
Craving something different? You’ll also find pizza, subs, Mexican, Chinese, and more just minutes away in town.
Take a Day Trip to Myrtle Beach, SC
If you’re up for a change of pace, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is just a short 50-mile drive south of Holden Beach. This popular tourist destination offers a high-energy contrast to Holden Beach’s laid-back charm. In under an hour, you can be in the heart of Myrtle Beach, where entertainment, shopping, and family-friendly attractions are around every corner.
Start your day at Broadway at the Beach, a massive outdoor complex with restaurants, shops, and attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and the WonderWorks science museum. For thrill-seekers, head to the SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels on the East Coast, offering sweeping views of the oceanfront.
Love golf? Try a round of mini-golf at one of the many themed courses or hit the links at a full-sized course. When hunger hits, choose from a wide selection of dining options, from seafood buffets to steakhouses.
If you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss Family Kingdom Amusement Park or cool off at Myrtle Waves Water Park. After a day of fun, unwind with a walk on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk or catch a live show at the Carolina Opry.
A day trip to Myrtle Beach adds big-city excitement to your peaceful beach vacation.
The Rich History of Holden Beach and Brunswick County, NC
Long before European settlers arrived, the area we now know as Holden Beach and Brunswick County was home to indigenous peoples. Native Groups such as the Cape Fear Indians and Waccamaw lived in the region, taking advantage of its abundant coastal resources. They fished, hunted, and built small villages along the rivers and marshlands. The Atlantic coast, rich with seafood and natural beauty, supported their daily lives and cultural practices for centuries.
First European Contact and Settlement
European settlers began exploring the North Carolina coast in the 1500s. By the early 1700s, colonists began establishing permanent settlements near the Lockwood’s Folly River, drawn by fertile land and navigable waterways. The British Crown encouraged settlement through land grants. For fifty shillings per 100 acres, settlers could secure permanent property from the Royal Governor, Arthur Dobbs.
Among the earliest landowners was Benjamin Holden, who in 1756 purchased several mainland tracts and the barrier island between his plantation and the ocean. This land extended from Lockwood’s Folly Inlet west to Bacon Inlet. Benjamin and his sons used the island for grazing cattle and fishing, laying the foundation for what would later become Holden Beach.
Holden Beach During the Civil War
The Civil War left its mark on Holden Beach. The island and the nearby Lockwood’s Folly Inlet became a hiding place and final resting site for ships involved in naval battles. Several vessels were lost here, including the Confederate blockade runners CSS Elizabeth and CSS Bendigo, and the Union ship USS Iron Age.
Today, the wreck of the Bendigo still lies at the eastern end of Holden Beach. At low tide, parts of the ship are visible above the water. Marked by a navigation buoy, it serves as a physical reminder of the area’s wartime history. Though fascinating, the site is covered with old fishing hooks and gear, making it risky to approach closely.
Founding the Holden Beach Resort
By the early 20th century, the Holden family began turning their land into a destination. John Holden, Benjamin’s grandson, established a commercial fishery on the island. In 1924, he surveyed a section he called Holden Beach Resort, the first official subdivision of beach property in Brunswick County.
In 1925, John built the original Holden Beach Bridge. Though later destroyed by the construction of the Intracoastal Waterway, the bridge was vital in early development. John Holden petitioned the state to establish a public ferry, which began service in 1934—after his passing.
Continued Growth and Family Legacy
Luther S. Holden, John’s son, expanded the family’s vision. He ran the island’s first hotel and moved there permanently in 1946. Soon after, John F. Holden, Luther’s son, started building rental homes for vacationers. By the 1940s, small developments were taking root, and oceanfront lots—including the land—could be purchased for around $600.
John F. Holden and his wife, Johnsie, are credited with formally beginning Holden Beach’s transformation into a vacation destination. Their sons, Lyn and J. Alan Holden, became the seventh generation of the Holden family to live on the island.
A Town Takes Shape
By 1954, Holden Beach had grown to about 300 homes and featured a swing bridge for access. However, that year’s Hurricane Hazel devastated the island, destroying homes and churches. Rebuilding took years, but the community’s resilience led to stronger development.
In 1969, Holden Beach was officially incorporated as a town. And in 1986, a new high-rise bridge replaced the old swing bridge, improving access and supporting continued growth. By that time, the island was home to nearly 2,000 residences.
Spiritual Roots: The Holden Beach Chapel
Faith played an important role in community life. The Holden Beach Chapel began as a Bible study hosted by Luther Holden and other families. A permanent church was built in the 1940s but was destroyed during Hurricane Hazel. Soon after, it was rebuilt and continues to welcome both locals and summer visitors. The chapel stands as a testament to the island’s spiritual foundation and close-knit community.
Modern-Day Holden Beach
Today, Holden Beach is a peaceful coastal town known for its quiet charm and deep family roots. Though modern in many ways, the island retains much of its small-town spirit. Visitors still walk the same sandy shores once used by natives, early settlers, and Civil War soldiers.
The Holden family’s influence remains strong. Their vision shaped the island into a beloved vacation spot that welcomes thousands each year. From ancient times to today, Holden Beach continues to be a place where history and natural beauty meet.
