Know before you go
Holden Beach questions, answered.
Straight answers, with sources
What visitors ask most
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Are dogs allowed on Holden Beach?Dogs are allowed on Holden Beach, but from May 20 to September 10 only before 9 AM and after 5 PM. Dogs must be on a physical leash at all times anywhere on the island.
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How much is parking on Holden Beach?Holden Beach paid parking is $5 an hour (up to 4 hours), $20 a day, $80 a week or $175 a year, enforced 9 AM to 5 PM daily. How to pay with SurfCAST, the biggest lots and free handicap parking.
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Is the Holden Beach pier open?The Town-owned Holden Beach fishing pier has been closed since 2022, and the pier house was torn down in 2025. The pier lot, restrooms and Town campground are still open. Surf fishing needs an NC license.
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Can you drive a golf cart on Holden Beach?Golf carts aren't allowed on any North Carolina roadway, including Holden Beach. A registered, inspected and insured low-speed vehicle (LSV) is. Nothing but official vehicles drives on the beach.
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Are fireworks allowed on Holden Beach?All fireworks except sparklers are banned on Holden Beach, open burning is prohibited, and beach gear left out from 6 PM to 7 AM is removed. Grill, hole and dune rules too.
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Where are the accessible beach accesses on Holden Beach?Mats, ramps and handicap parking by access.
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What do I do if I find a sea turtle nest on Holden Beach?Stay back, lights out, and call the Holden Beach Turtle Watch.
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Where can I stay on Holden Beach?Rentals, hotels and the Town campground.