Welcome to Holden Beach, a year-round destination for family vacations and epic getaways. While our town sees most of its visitors during the luscious summer months, spring and fall are also incredible times to head to the NC coast. Even in winter, there's mild weather, pristine beaches, and opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you are thinking about booking a 4th of July family reunion or a holiday escape for two, Holden Beach is the place to be.
This blog post will give you a snapshot of the weather, activities, events, and what to expect during each season. Keep reading to discover more.
Spring in Holden Beach
Spring in Holden Beach is a delightful season marked by mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and a variety of outdoor activities. From the buds of pink azaleas to days that continue to warm throughout the season, a spring getaway is a must! There are few crowds until Memorial Day, so you will have the beach almost to yourself.
Weather
- March: Average highs in the low 60s °F and lows near the mid-to-upper-40s °F. It's a refreshing start to spring with cool mornings and warming afternoons.
- April: Temperatures rise to an average high of 70°F and lows in the mid-to-upper 50s °F.
- May: The weather becomes moderately warm, with highs averaging in the high 70s °F and lows in the mid-60s °F.
Visitors can expect the weather to be generally warm and humid with refreshing coastal breezes.
Activities
- Beach Days: Enjoy beach walks, flying kites, building sandcastles, and looking for seashells. By May, the ocean water is warm enough for swimming.
- Nature Watching: Migratory birds return in spring, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts. Dolphins can be seen cruising along the coast, as well as other wildlife species. Be sure to bring your binoculars and a camera!
- Biking: Pedal scenic routes like the “Olden” Holden Bike Tour, offering loops from 3.5 to 10 miles.
- Golfing: Tee up at nearby Lockwood Folly Country Club to enjoy lush greenways, stunning marsh views, and a challenging course.
Events
- North Carolina Azalea Festival: Each April, this delightful festival returns to Wilmington, NC, for five days of fun.
- Easter Happenings: There are a myriad of Easter events throughout the region, including sunrise services, egg hunts, and visits with the Easter Bunny.
- Days at the Dock Festival: Since 1980, this vibrant festival has been hosted in Holden Beach each April. Visitors can enjoy free live entertainment, food vendors, craft booths, and more.
Our guests love our live Beach Cam. Take a peek to see the current weather conditions, 365 days a year!
Summer in Holden Beach
Who doesn’t love summer vacation at the beach? Dive into unforgettable oceanfront fun with fantastic watersports, long lazy days in the sand, and quality time with the people you love most. It’s time for cold iced tea, juicy watermelons, flip flops, and sun tans. It’s hot, humid, and just the way we like it!
Weather
- June: Expect average daytime highs in the mid-80s °F and overnight lows in the low-70s °F. The heat index can reach well into the 90s°F, especially in direct sunlight, so be sure to plan accordingly.
- July: This is the hottest month of the year in Holden Beach, with average highs in the upper-80s °F and lows in the mid-70s °F. The heat index may climb into triple digits, so plan to head indoors during the hottest part of the day.
- August: This is our wettest month of the year, making it slightly cooler than July. Look forward to highs averaging in the mid-80s °F and lows in the mid-70s °F.
Activities
There are so many awesome things to do in the summer in Holden Beach. Here is a short list of our favorites:
- Boating
- Surfing
- Beach Days
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Skim Boarding
- Swimming
- Jet Ski Rentals
- Sailing
- Eco tours
- Cookouts
- Making S’mores
- Stargazing
With the high chance of rain showers and hot midday temperatures, be sure to have a few indoor activities on your itinerary.
Events
- Summer Concerts: Be sure to check out our summer concert series!
- 4th of July Fireworks & Parades: Head to HoldenBeachNC.com for up-to-date information on Independence Day celebrations.
- Farmers Markets & Produce Stands: Stop by local farmers markets and produce stands to stock up on fresh and homegrown watermelon, corn, tomatoes, and more.
Fall in Holden Beach
Fall is a magical time of year to experience the southern North Carolina coast. It is a beautiful and comfortable season, offering mild temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds—perfect for a relaxing getaway. Fishing is at its finest, the weather is ideal for outdoor adventures, and getting a table at our favorite local restaurants is a breeze. Look forward to crisp mornings and warm afternoons, made for sipping coffee on the oceanfront deck of your vacation rental or searching for shells on the beach.
Weather
- September: It still feels like summer well into September, with average daytime highs in the mid-80s °F and lows in the high 70s °F.
- October: Visitors can expect plenty of warm days throughout October. The average high is in the mid-70s °F, with lows in the low-60s °F.
- November: It starts to feel like fall during November. Daytime highs are mild, reaching into the mid-60s °F. The average overnight lows can drop into the low 50s °F and upper 40s °F.
Activities
- Fall Fishing: From surf fishing to near-shore charters, this is the best season for fishing in Holden Beach.
- Seafood Sampling: Visit the best local restaurants for sensational seafood and other regional cuisines.
- Outdoor Fun: Enjoy the great outdoors with a round of golf, kayaking, beachcombing, or wildlife viewing.
- Thanksgiving Getaway: Host a Thanksgiving to remember when you invite your family to join you for a holiday getaway at the beach.
Events
- NC Oyster Festival: Make the short drive to Ocean Isle Beach for this fun festival. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors, and of course ... OYSTERS!
- NC Festival by the Sea: During the last full weekend in October, festival goers converge under the Holden Beach bridge for live music, a kid zone, food vendors, local art, a dog costume contest, and more.
- Sunset at the Sunset Festival: This lively celebration highlights community spirit. Enjoy a full day of live music, local vendors, delicious food, and kid-friendly fun in nearby Sunset Beach.
Be sure to check out more fall and winter events that you will want to add to your itinerary!
Winter in Holder Beach
Winter in Holden Beach, NC, is generally mild and refreshing, making it a peaceful time for beach walks, shell hunting, holiday shopping, and quiet retreats. Plan a family gathering on the coast for Christmas or surprise your someone special with a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day.
Weather
- December: This month brings the shortest day of the year and the beginning of our winter months. Expect average daytime high in the upper-50s °F and lows in the mid-40s °F.
- January: Greet the New Year with average highs in the mid-50s °F and lows in the low-40s.
- February: Average daytime temperatures are in the high-50s °F and overnight lows in the 40s °F. It is not unusual to have spurts of warmer weather, perfect for a day on the water.
No snow accumulation is expected in Holden Beach during the winter, but occasional flurries are possible. The wind can feel quite cold, so be sure to bundle up for early-morning walks on the beach.
Activities
- Shopping: Browse the area's wonderful antique stores and gift shops. Whether you are looking for a holiday present or a unique home decor item, there are plenty of shops to choose from.
- Explore Hidden Gems: From the Golden Holden Mailbox to quirky galleries, there is something for everyone to explore this winter.
- Try an Off-Season Activity: Visit a local historic museum, photograph iconic landmarks, go to an oyster roast, or play a round of golf.
Events
- Holiday Parades & Markets: Throughout the holiday season, there are numerous Christmas markets and parades in the area. Check local listings and Facebook pages for the most current information.
Book Your Next Getaway to Holden Beach, NC
Booking a vacation rental in Holden Beach offers a relaxing and personalized coastal experience. Unlike traditional hotels, vacation rentals provide spacious accommodations with full kitchens, private decks, and easy beach access—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to unwind.
Whether you're planning a summer getaway or a quiet off-season retreat, Holden Beach rentals range from cozy cottages to large oceanfront homes, many of which are pet-friendly and equipped with modern amenities. With fewer crowds and a laid-back vibe, it's an ideal destination to enjoy the beauty of the North Carolina coast at your own pace.
The friendly and professional staff at Coastal Vacation Resorts at Holden Beach are standing by to help make your beach vacation dreams come true!
