Bald Head Island is a unique barrier island located 3 nautical miles off the coast of North Carolina.  It is bordered by the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south, and the Atlantic Ocean and various creeks and bays to the east and north.

  There is no connecting bridge and therefore there are no cars to mar the natural beauty of this semi-tropical island.  With views that stretch from sunrise to sunset over 14 miles of dunes and beach, across the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean, through 10,000 acres of dense maritime forest and salt marshes, the island’s natural surroundings provide an extraordinarily scenic and relaxing setting for homeowners and vacationers alike.

Escaping from the stress in your life is just a ferry ride across the Intracoastal Waterway away. When you arrive at the Bald Head Island Ferry Terminal located in the Indigo Plantation Marina at 9th Street in Southport, it's like stepping into another time zone — a slower, less stressful one that provides a delightful transition to the leisurely pace of the golf carts that traverse the island’s winding lanes and seaside drives.

Homeowners and visitors alike will love the charm of the traditional architectural styling that is incorporated throughout this charismatic island community.  Seaside cottages and town homes are strategically positioned on the beach, beside the marsh, in the forest, along the celebrated golf course, or surrounding the harbor under the watchful light of the 1817 lighthouse, affectionately know as “Old Baldy”.

Whether you want to be active or just take it easy, recreational opportunities abound and are only limited by one’s imagination.  Bike along tree lined paths, take midnight turtle walks, explore a nature trail, go swimming, surfing, fishing, sailing, canoeing or kayaking, or simply walk the beach and collect shells - it is all available on this island retreat.

Bald Head Island Ferry - Ferry Schedule
Daytrip: Cost is $15 per person round trip. Children 12-under $8.00. Reservations are encouraged. Phone: 910.457-5003. Location: Mainland Ferry Dock--Indigo Plantation Marina - follow 9th Street, Southport.

Bald Head Island Lighthouse & Historic Tours - Take a guided historic tour of Bald Head Island, which includes a stop at the Smith Island Museum, lighthouse and lunch or dinner.  Lighthouse & Museum open Tuesday - Saturday 9 am - 4 pm and Sunday from 11 am - 4 pm. Individual admission is $3.00 per person and includes museum, grounds & lighthouse. Guided tour prices and times vary. Ferry & guided tour reservations are required. Call (910)457-5003. 

Old Baldy Lighthouse - Built in 1817, it is North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse. During her 86 years of service she guided many ships safely into the mouth of the Cape Fear River. She was retired in 1935 but after an extensive renovation project, she is now open to the public for tours.