There’s something simplistic about stepping away from the world into a land where cars don’t roam a busy street, and life moves at a slower pace. It’s something that many of us don’t have the luxury of experiencing in our day-to-day life. We become so accustomed to the hustle and bustle that we fail to realize that maybe a step back in time to a simpler world is all we need to relax and recharge. Take a look at one of the coolest things to do in Bald Head Island North Carolina – go carless for a weekend away.

Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island, an island in North Carolina with no cars, invites guests to take the ferry over and leave their car, and maybe their wristwatch (or iPhone) behind.
Bald Head Island Rentals
Bald Head Island is 12,000 acres of paradise with 10,000 of those remaining untouched. You can explore private beaches, lush vegetation, intimate neighborhoods, and natural beauty all through a simple stroll, a golf cart, or bike ride.
Flickr / Anne Ruthmann
Facebook / Bald Head Island
BHI is home to 14 miles of amazing beaches you won't find anywhere else on the coast.
Facebook / Bald Head Island
It's also home to Old Baldy, the longest standing lighthouse in North Carolina. It's retained its original location and form for 187 years. Even better, you can still climb to the top for amazing views of the island.

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Facebook / Bald Head Island
The year-round population is around 200. Residents enjoy a world away from it all, where simplicity is an understatement. You can catch a beachside sunrise, and finish your day with a stroll through maritime forests. Even in the summer, as tourism booms, life still moves at a slow, laid back pace. While nearby Wilmington relays the beach vibe, Bald Head Island is truly unique. Having no cars on the island also adds something especially unique.
Facebook / Bald Head Island
With miles of biking and hiking trails, it's also the perfect place to get in touch with nature.
Yelp / Andrea P.
After a long day on the beach, you can walk, bike or take the golf cart to one of many amazing dining options. Check out the view at MoJo's on the Harbor, try something new at Delphina Cantina, or take your pick of fancy or laid back at the Bald Head Island Club and The Shoals Club.
Facebook / Bald Head Island
If you're thinking less of dinner time and more of tee time, you can find an amazing golf course on the island that winds its way through dunes, lagoons, a maritime forest, and the ocean.
Facebook / Bald Head Island
Facebook / Bald Head Island
I will warn you though, a trip here and you might never want to come back. BHI has it figured out in terms of letting the rest of the world go and simply relaxing. It's everything a person could need, minus a few amenities (like cars). It's a place many dream of retiring and many vacation to each year. The simplicity here cannot be found anywhere else.

It never hurts to get completely away from the world and leave your car, your thoughts, and your stresses behind. Welcome to island time! Did you ever wonder – are cars allowed on Bald Head Island? Were you surprised by the answer? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Also, if you’ve ever been to this incredible island in North Carolina, we’d love to hear about your favorite parts.

Would you believe North Carolina has yet another town where cars are banned – and it’s not on the coast? If you want to enjoy a weekend away in peace, this might be another great place to do so.

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More to Explore

Things To Do In Bald Head Island, North Carolina

Megan Todaro | March 22, 2023

What are the most beautiful places in North Carolina?

The most beautiful places in North Carolina include:

  • The 'Serendipity House' from the movie Nights in Rodanthe
  • 'The Road to Nowhere' in Bryson City
  • Uwharrie Mountains Wine Trail
  • A mini-desert at Jockey's Ridge
  • Winston-Salem
  • Mile High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain
  • Chimney Rock State Park
  • Linville Falls
  • USS North Carolina
  • Craggy Bottoms Trail
  • The Biltmore Estate
  • Sliding Rock
  • NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort
  • Outer Banks Scenic Byway
  • Mount Mitchell
  • 11-mile 'Dragon' at Deals Gap
  • Atkinson Mill in Selma
  • The Reed Gold Mine
  • Tryon Palace
  • Bath, North Carolina
  • Skinny Dip Falls
  • Bald Head Island Lighthouse
  • The Blowing Rock in the Blue Ridge Mountains
  • Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

 

What are the best small towns in North Carolina?

The best small towns in North Carolina include:

  • New Bern
  • Boone
  • Bath
  • Hillsborough
  • Beaufort
  • Saluda
  • Blowing Rock
  • Bethania
  • Manteo
  • Brevard

 

North Carolina has some beautiful small towns that are also equally as charming. While some of these towns offer a cozy mountainside escape, others bring guests to the coast for a bit of seasonal fun. 

What is the best small town for a mountain getaway in North Carolina?

The best small town for a mountain getaway is Hot Springs, North Carolina. Hot Springs is a visually stunning place that is tucked away in the middle of the Appalachian Trail, right on the French Broad River. There are many different things to do in Hot Springs, North Carolina, from enjoying hiking, mountain climbing, and soaking in the springs to indulging in a brewery, local eats, and more.

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Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA