The 178 acre parcel of undeveloped territory, managed by the N.C. Division of Coastal Management (DCM), in partnership with the Bald Head Island Conservancy, effectively acts as a protector of the island, allowing storm winds to pass over the canopy of trees protecting the interior of the preserve and outlying beaches, homes and communities. The natural terrain also provides some extra elevation to the small, approximately 5 square mile island, with ancient tree roots that holds sand in despite any harsh storms or saltwater surges that pass through.
But despite being an instrumental component to the island's very existence, and a protector against erosion and storms, Bald Head Woods serves a more visible role as a fun, outdoor destination for visitors to enjoy off the beach. A popular spot with bird watchers, hikers and nature fans alike, this rustic destination allows vacationers to easily step off the beaten path, and dive into Bald Head Island's natural landscape.
The reserve borders both a collection of oceanside communities and the salty Bald Head Island Creek along the southern portion of the Island, close to the Shoals Watch Club. Federal Road cuts through the center of Bald Head Woods, and features several trailheads where adventurous vacationers can start their explorations of the undeveloped territory.
Trails can vary from easy to moderate, and effectively make up an entire 2.2 mile "loop" which winds through the preserve in almost its entirety. The main trailhead features a famous resident - a live oak tree affectionately called "Baldy" by locals - which has earned a spot on the national Live Oak Society register due to its massive size.
Baldy will certainly not be the only giant live oak that visitors encounter, however. The interior of the preserve is protected by an intertwined network of giant oak trees, including live oaks and laurel oaks, which protect the fragile forest environment below. Smaller flora and fauna species that thrive under this canopy include wild olive, American holly, yaupon, and catbrier, and other shade-loving plants such as cabbage palmettos and spleenwort can be found throughout the woods as well.
Nature lovers should be on the lookout for a number of wild residents, including gray squirrels, raccoons, white-tailed deer, eastern mud turtles, and even green tree frogs which take up well-camouflaged residence along the bright green foliage. Bird watchers will find plenty of vantage points to spot a number of woodland birds, including Carolina wrens, cardinals and blue jays, which are happily at home throughout this dense protected portion of an otherwise salty barrier island.
While the woods provide ample shade from the sun, visitors will want to load up on bug spray, especially in the summer months when the reserve can serve as a haven for overheated mosquitos. In addition, visitors will want to keep their eyes peeled for ticks and snakes which, while rare, can still startle hikers that delve deep into the woodsy parcels of the region.
The reserve is open year round, and hikers can tour the terrain at will, although several local clubs and programs, like the Bald Head Island Club, may offer seasonal special tours which highlight some of the Bald Head Woods' most notable wild residents and plant species. Visitors can check with local calendars of events or their vacation rental companies for details on upcoming, guided excursions that coincide with their vacation. The Bald Head Island Conservancy, located nearby, can also provide visitors with a complete list of local trails to uncover and discover during a natural adventure through the heart of the island.
Bald Head Island may have a reputation as an elite vacation destination, but a big part of its allure comes from its natural surroundings which both protect and beautify this barrier island. The Bald Head Woods State Reserve is a perfect representation of Bald Head Island's wild nature, and visitors from all walks of life can enjoy a quick stroll, an in-depth hike, or a simple drive through this undeveloped parcel of natural paradise. Unique and always fascinating during all seasons, Bald Head Woods is an incredible slice of wild North Carolina that sheds new light on this island's inherently wild nature.
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is the place to go for family-oriented or even late-night fun after a sunny day on the beach. Noted as one of the top 10 boardwalks in America by Food & Wine magazine, this classic oceanside boardwalk features a full host of shops, amusements, restaurants, and nightlife for visitors of all ages to explore.
Southport is a stunning town where every waterfront turn or historic street corner can serve as its own charming attraction. Filled with picturesque outdoor landscapes, a collection of historic sites, and a myriad of unique shopping and dining opportunities, a vacation in this coastal community can be as relaxed or as engaging as a visitor wishes. With that being said, there are a few “must see” attractions and destination that longtime and new visitors alike should be sure to include on an upcoming vacation itinerary. Make the most out of your upcoming Southport getaway by ensuring these Top 10 Attractions are on your list.
Welcome to Bees Knees, managed by Brunswick Vacation Units!Escape to this gorgeous vacation rental located just steps away from the beach at 252 E 2nd St in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. With its four bedrooms and two baths spread over two levels, this third-row home provides ample space and comfort for your oceanside getaway.On the lower level, you'll find a comfortable bedroom with a king bed, ideal for indulging in a restful nighttime's sleep. The second bedroom offers a queen bed and a bunk bed full over full, accommodating both kids and adults comfortably. The two bedrooms share a well-appointed bathroom with a convenient tub/shower combo. Upstairs, the master bedroom features a extravagant king bed, while the fourth bedroom offers two double beds. These bedrooms share a second bathroom with a exhilarating shower.Relaxation and entertainment await in the loft area, where you can relax while watching your favorite shows on the Roku TVs with Spectrum streaming service or delve into a captivating beach read. Step out onto the covered deck on the main level and embrace the Southern appeal as you recline on the rocking chairs, appreciating the gentle coastal breeze. The upstairs king bedroom and loft area open up to an uncovered deck, where you can bask in the sun's warm rays.The dining room beckons with a roomy table accompanied by cozy benches, ensuring everybody can gather for memorable family meals. Additional seating is available at the kitchen bar with three stools. The well-equipped kitchen features modern appliances including a dishwasher, microwave oven, Keurig and regular coffee makers, and a blender, making meal preparation a breeze.Rinse off the sand in the outdoor shower before heading inside to appreciate the central heat and air conditioning. Other amenities include a high-efficiency washer and dryer for your convenience and Wi-Fi connectivity to stay connected with appreciated ones back home.Conveniently located just five tons away from the Goldsboro Street beach access, this vacation rental offers simple access to the sandy shores of Ocean Isle Beach. Immerse yourself in the coastal lifestyle, discover appealing stores, savor local cuisine, and create memorable memories.Book your stay at 252 E 2nd St and experience a coastal getaway filled with relaxation, fun, and cherished moments by the sea.The pool is open year round, however between April 1 - Oct 31 the heater will be on and typically keeps the pool water between 80-84 degrees depending on outside air temperatures and weather. There is no additional cost to heat the pool, but we can not guarantee the pool water temperatures due to the dependency of the weather and air temperatures. Please keep in mind that the heater only runs when the pool pump is running and typically the pump does not run at nighttime due to time schedule.*Please note, pools will NOT be heated November 1 - March 31*. If you want us to attempt to heat the pool during this time we can for a cost of $75 per day for your entire stay, but once again, we can not guarantee the pool water temperatures due to the dependency of the weather and air temperatures.The pool and/or spa is private and unattended, so swim at your own risk. All kids must be supervised in the water at all times by an adult. No food, drinks, alcohol, glass, etc are allowed in or around the pool. Pools are serviced regularly, however please keep in mind that due to the tropical nature of the island, it is not unusual to find unexpected debris and sand in the pool.PLEASE READ RULES / NOTES PRIOR TO BOOKING:If your check in date is on or between Memorial Day and Labor Day, your cleaning fee does include whole home linen and towel rental fee. Linen and towel service includes top and fitted sheets per bed, pillow cases, and 1 set of towels will be included per person (1 set includes: 1 body towel, 1 hand towel, and 1 washcloth), and a kitchen towel.If your check in date is before Memorial Day or after Labor Day, linens and towels are NOT supplied in the cleaning fee. We do offer them for an additional fee, or you can choose to bring your own linens and towels, or rent through a third event.**(Last min. bookings: We need at least 24-hour notice in order to provide linens).We highly recommend trip insurance and will not give any refunds for weather related trip interruptions or cancellations as well as any other situations that may cause you not be able to travel or use the property. If you cancel at least 60 days prior to your check in date, you will be refunded in full minus a non-returnable fee of 5% of the total reservation (cancellation fee). Cancellations within 60 days prior to check in will not be refunded.Due to homeowner severe allergies, some homes may not allow service or support animals. You must disclose and get permission for any service and or support animals PRIOR to booking.While you paid a cleaning fee, if you leave the home excessively dirty and don't follow check out procedures, an additional cleaning charge may apply that you will be responsible for paying.Included in your reservation is a security deposit insurance policy that can cover you for accidental damages to the home or contents, however all damages may not be covered and if denied, you will be liable / responsible for paying any damages in their entirety. You must be at least 26 years old to book and if your group is not related, the average age of all adults (not including kids) must be 26 years old or older. We do not allow people to book for other people, the person who makes and pays for the reservation must also stay in the home.Sorry, NO home events, prom events, weddings, rehearsal dinners, or any other events of any kind.NO Smoking inside or on/around the premise (you will be charged a $500 fee if this rule is broken).NO charcoal grilles, fire pits, or deep fryers are allowed on premise.Please be aware that there are exterior security cameras located on the premises directed towards the parking area and/or entrances for added security and tranquility of mind.Please note if there is a fireplace, it is decorative only and not to be used.We provide a basic starter pack of essentials for your first day including a roll of toilet paper in each bathroom, hand soap, a roll of paper towels in the kitchen, and a trash can liner per bin.While we do provide some items to get you started, here is a list of a few other things we want to remind you to bring:Bath Soaps/Shampoo/ConditionerToothpasteCondiments/SeasoningToilet paperPaper TowelsSuntan Lotion/SunblockClothes HangersGarbage BagsLaundry DetergentDish Washer DetergentBeach Towels
- Ocean Isle Beach
- 4 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- Sleeps 14