Bald Head Island is located at North Carolina's southernmost point where the Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic Ocean. A 20-minute passenger ferry ride will transport you from the ferry terminal at Deep Point Marina in Southport, N.C. to the harbor at Bald Head Island. For those driving, you'll need to navigate to Deep Point Marina (1301 Ferry Rd SE, Southport, NC 28461). There are no cars on the island - only golf carts - so you'll need to leave your vehicle parked in a secure lot on the mainland at Deep Point Marina. Parking is $13/day. For those flying, Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is the closest airport to the island and is approximately a 40 minute drive to Deep Point Marina. Taxis, Uber, and rental car agencies are all available for transport from Wilmington International to Deep Point Marina.
The only way to reach Bald Head Island is by ferry. You'll need to reserve your spot on the ferry and it is recommended that you do so as far in advance as possible (at least 1 month out) as peak hour time slots will fill up quickly. For those staying on the island, it is especially important to secure a tram reservation for both your arrival and departure when purchasing the ferry tickets, as this is how you & your luggage will be transported to/from the ferry/your accommodations. Upon arrival to the island, you will check in with the tram dispatcher to confirm your destination. You will then need to collect your luggage and make sure it makes it on your designated tram. All tram rides are included with the price of a ferry ticket. The tram reservations are located under the "Enhancements and Upgrades" tab when purchasing ferry tickets. Make sure to consider the check-in/check-out times of your rental when booking your ferry/tram schedule. All ferry details (including booking, schedules, etc.) can be found at https://www.baldheadislandferry.com/bald-head-island-ferry/
Bald Head Island does not allow cars! The island is small, so everyone gets around via golf cart. Although most rental homes come with golf carts to use during your stay, additional golf carts and bikes can also be rented once you are on the island. You can rent a golf cart by the day from Cary Cart Company (located directly next to where the ferry drops you off). Golf carts are around $99 - $150 per day, depending on the size of the cart and must be returned by closing time which is usually around 4.
Beer and wine are available for purchase at the Maritime Market, however, we always recommend bringing your favorites from home as selections and hours of operation may be limited. The only liquor that can be purchased on the island are the Cape Fear line of spirits from the new Cape Fear Distillery shop. While they are delicious, if you prefer name brand options then you must bring those over with you from the mainland so remember to include that on your packing list if you so desire. There is also an ABC store in Southport (714 N. Howe St) if you need to stop on your way to the ferry.
There is a grocery store on the island called the Maritime Market. It is open 7 Days a week, hours vary. Prices at the market reflect typical island pricing. If you want to bring groceries to the island, please pack them in large bins with secure lids and be sure to label them with your name, contact info, and house you're staying at. These will be loaded onto the dollies along with your luggage and then transported onto the ferry so securely taping the lids closed is a good idea as well.
The Bald Head Island Club is a private club for Members and registered Guest Pass Holders only. Please inquire with your rental company or homeowner to determine if a Bald Head Island Club membership is attached to the property you are renting. Homes with Full and Lifestyle Memberships have access to all the Club’s amenities. Homes with a Social Membership do not offer access to golf. Homes with a House Membership offer access to the Aquatics Complex and dining only. The Club’s guest passes are limited in quantity and are distributed on a first-registered, first-admitted basis. Guest passes should be arranged as soon as possible prior to the guest's arrival. All guest passes purchased less than five days prior to arrival will be subject to an additional $100 service fee. Read More: https://www.bhiclub.net/guest-passes Contact BHI Club: lobby@bhiclub.net