Holden Beach is located in North Carolina just south of South Brunswick between Ocean Isle Beach and Oak Island. It is an island between the intracoastal waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal town is home to about 600 residents and is one of the smaller, quieter seaside towns in Brunswick County.
Holden Beach has been nationally recognized as one of the premier family beaches in the US. With a small commercial area, primarily residential neighborhood, Holden Beach is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy the natural wildlife that surrounds the area.
BEACH PROTECTION
The line of sand dunes on the south side of Ocean Boulevard along with beach vegetation provide some protection from annual storms. Local officials ask that people do not walk over the dunes to get to the ocean but to use the walkways, boardwalks and ramps. Only emergency vehicles are allowed to drive on the beach.
A popular place along the coast is at the east end of the island along McRae Street. This is a great place to fish, wade and beach comb but it can be risky for swimming. Officials asked that jet skis only operated outside 500 feet from the shore and not to ride onto the beach strand. You can see that officials are very careful about protecting the wildlife and the natural vegetation that keeps Holden Beach protected during most of the year.
REAL ESTATE
At any given time there are between 100 and 150 properties, condos and Holden Beach homes for sale. These are priced from about $300,000 to over $5 million with an meeting in list price of around $650,000. This is one of the higher-priced areas along the coastline and home to primarily vacationers, seasonal residents and high-end permanent property owners.
For more information about Holden Beach, homes and real estate therein please see active listings on our website or contact us for a personalized list of similar properties in the area that fit your price range and style.
Image by fauxto_digit Flickr
New Holden Beach Homes
$250,000
2850 Lake Pointe Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
3.76
Acres,
You want amenities AND land, well here it is! A tract of land in Lockwood Folly. Enjoy sitting on a veranda sipping an ice cold beverage while watching the golfers on holes 5, 6 and 7 with a beautiful pond backdrop. This is living. A very private piece of lnd onto which you can build your dream home in Lockwood Folly Country Club. The course, designed by Willard Byrd, winds through salt marshes, creeks and moss-covered hardwoods along the Lockwood Folly River. The clubhouse and swimming pool both boast expasive views of the river and the Lockwood Folly inlet. The Oak and Anchor restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and doesn't disappoint. You're just five minutes from the pristine sands of Holden Beach. Discover the perfect blend of peaceful coastal living and everyday convenience. Enjoy easy access to boating, fishing, waterfront dining, shopping, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Residents are treated to an exceptional collection of amenities designed to complement an active coastal lifestyle, including a beautifully appointed clubhouse, fitness center, library, meeting room, private boat ramp and dock, fishing piers, secure boat and RV storage, and a championship golf course.
Surrounded by breathtaking water views, mature landscaping, and unforgettable sunsets, this welcoming community offers a picturesque setting you'll be proud to call home--where every day feels like a coastal retreat.
Land
MLS# 100591197
Southern Realty Advantage LLC
, 1062 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$300,000
1062 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.18
Acres,
Beautiful home site In Pointe West Subdivision. Community Beach access across street from entrance. Community Docks & Pier on the ICW. There are restrictive covenants and ARB for this subdivision. Including architectural revies and builder restrictions.
Land
MLS# 100559906
Coastal Development & Realty
, 1038 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$320,000
1038 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.23
Acres,
PRICED TO SELL!! This beautiful lot is cleared, surveyed, and ready to build your dream home on! Located in Pointe West on Holden Beach, this community has PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS with a security gate, and secured private access to the community pier and day docks on the ICW! Take the scenic trail across the marsh to the ICW and enjoy the beauty of the water! The homes in this community are built by a reputable, local, luxury builder to keep the integrity, value, and beauty of the homes! Take one look and fall in love with the coastal lifestyle this community has to offer!
Land
MLS# 100513135
Coastal Lights Realty
, 1056 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$335,000
1056 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.17
Acres,
Beautiful homesite at Pointe West Community. This home site offers maximum views of the ocean and the ICW and marsh. Quickly access the beach by way of the private gated Pointe West beach access. Quiet nature path leads to day docks on the ICW. This community is subject to covenants and restrictions, including architectural review and builder restrictions.
Land
MLS# 100552509
Coastal Development & Realty
, 1064 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$350,000
1064 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.19
Acres,
Enjoy unobstructed ocean views form this large home site In Pointe West Subdivision. Quick access to the beach by way of the private community Beach access across street from entrance. Quiet nature path leads to day docks on the ICW.
Land
MLS# 100559885
Coastal Development & Realty
$410,000
$475
142 Brunswick Avenue E
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
2
Baths,
863
square feet,
Dreaming of owning a beach retreat without the premium price tag, nor an HOA/POA? This charming vintage half duplex offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the coastal lifestyle at an affordable price. Whether you're searching for a personal getaway, investment property, or both, this inviting beach home checks all the boxes.
Inside, the open-concept great room seamlessly combines the living area, dining space, and kitchen, creating a comfortable gathering place after a day on the sand. Two bedrooms, two full baths, and a convenient laundry closet provide everything needed for easy beach living.
Start your mornings with coffee on the welcoming front porch, unwind on the rear deck beneath the retractable awning while enjoying refreshing coastal breezes, or climb to the crow's nest for breathtaking bird's-eye views of Holden Beach, where you'll enjoy spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and sparkling island vistas.
Designed for low-maintenance ownership, the home features durable Hardie Board siding, an outdoor shower for rinsing off after beach days, and is being sold furnished with only a few personal exclusions from the closets and ground-level storage area.
This property has excellent vacation rental potential, making it ideal for couples and small families looking to experience Holden Beach year-round. Even better, the adjoining half duplex is also available for purchase! Live in one side while renting the other, create the perfect multi-generational beach retreat, or maximize your investment by renting both. Opportunities like this don't come along often--make your Holden Beach dream a reality today! You can get a beach retreat for your family, that is NOT a condo/townhome, with NO HOA DUES!
Residential
MLS# 100584622
PROACTIVE Real Estate
$450,000
116 Tarpon Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.11
Acres,
Welcome to 116 Tarpon Drive, a rare deep-water canal front homesite on award-winning Holden Beach. Whether you're looking to build your primary residence, coastal beach getaway, or investment property, this cleared lot is ready for your vision.
Enjoy quick and easy boating access to the Intracoastal Waterway from the deep-water canal, complete with an existing bulkhead. The beach access is just around the corner, directly across Ocean Boulevard from Marlin Drive, giving you the best of both worlds with easy access to both the beach and the water.
Holden Beach has been awarded one of the best family beaches on multiple occasions, and lots like this do not come around often. Come and take a look for yourself today!
Standard permitting and approvals will be required prior to construction.
Land
MLS# 100593560
PROACTIVE Real Estate
, 838 Ocean Boulevard W, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$459,000
838 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.26
Acres,
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a beautiful second-row marshfront homesite on Holden Beach. Perfectly positioned to capture stunning coastal sunsets and panoramic marsh views, this property offers the ideal location to build your custom beach getaway or permanent residence.
Wake up to the sights and sounds of the coast, enjoy refreshing ocean breezes, and experience the laid-back lifestyle that has made Holden Beach one of the most beloved family beaches in the country. With beach access nearby and endless opportunities for boating, fishing, shelling, and relaxing, this lot is the perfect foundation for your coastal dream.
Conveniently situated between Myrtle Beach and Wilmington, you'll enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and airports while still savoring the peaceful charm of island life.
Create your own piece of paradise and discover why so many people fall in love with Holden Beach.
RELAX, you're at the Beach.
Land
MLS# 100583949
Alan Holden Realty
$499,000
$525
1068 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
2
Baths,
951
square feet,
Ocean-view second-row condo located in the desirable Captain's Villas community, just steps from the beach. This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit features unobstructed views of the Atlantic and convenient beach access across the street through HOA-owned property.
Enjoy coastal breezes and ocean views from the covered balcony. The open living area connects to a well-appointed kitchen with a full suite of appliances and a dedicated coffee bar. The spacious primary suite includes a king bed, private en-suite bath, and access to the covered rear porch. A guest bedroom with queen bed and nearby full bath provides comfortable accommodations for family and guests. The living area includes additional sleeping space with a queen sleeper sofa.
Interior features include updated kitchen (appliances, countertops, backsplash, sink, faucet), flooring (bedrooms), light fixtures (kitchen, dining and hallway), fresh coat in bathrooms, coastal finishes, and tasteful furnishings throughout. Additional conveniences include an in-unit washer and dryer, WiFi, and cable.
Community amenities include a large swimming pool, tennis courts, outdoor grilling areas, and an outdoor shower.
Located close to local dining, shops, and beach access points, this coastal condo is well suited for personal use or participation in a rental program.
Residential
MLS# 100560064
Beycome Brokerage Realty LLC
$540,000
$462
256 Brunswick Avenue W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
3
Baths,
1,170
square feet,
Step into salty breezes, sunlit spaces, and effortless beach living! Just steps from the pristine, sandy shores of Holden Beach, this updated two-story coastal condo is the ultimate turnkey furnished retreat--whether you're looking for a personal sanctuary or vacation home. This home has been updated to be modern and bright. Say goodbye to popcorn ceilings! Fresh interior paint and brand-new LVP flooring flow seamlessly throughout the entire home, including the stairs. The updated kitchen shines with sleek quartz countertops, professionally painted cabinetry, and modern stainless appliances (including a new dishwasher and microwave). Upstairs features two spacious bedrooms, each with its own private ensuite bathroom and a private balcony deck for unwinding at sunset. Unlike standard condo setups, enjoy a spacious backyard perfect for outdoor games, grilling, and entertaining. The ground level includes covered parking, a secure storage room and an outdoor shower, ideal for rinsing sandy toes and paws. Catch the ocean breeze from your choice of outdoor spaces. Holden Beach offers an array of entertainment at your fingertips including a playground, boat ramp, tennis and basketball courts, shopping and family-friendly events. Book your tour today!
Residential
MLS# 100590718
PROACTIVE Real Estate
, 836 Ocean Boulevard W, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$569,000
836 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.11
Acres,
Build your dream coastal retreat on this exceptional second-row, marshfront lot on beautiful Holden Beach. Offering breathtaking marsh views and unforgettable sunsets, this property provides the perfect setting to create the beach home you've always imagined. Enjoy the natural beauty, coastal breezes, and peaceful surroundings that make Holden Beach one of North Carolina's most treasured seaside communities.
Conveniently located between Myrtle Beach and Wilmington, you'll have easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and airports while still enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of island living. Whether you're looking for a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity, this marshfront homesite offers endless possibilities.
Experience spectacular sunset views, abundant wildlife, and all the charm that Holden Beach is known for.
RELAX, you're at the Beach.
Land
MLS# 100583945
Alan Holden Realty
$599,000
$378
314 Sand Piper Lane
Holden Beach, NC 28462
3
Beds,
3
Baths,
1,585
square feet,
This Holden Beach home offers a great opportunity to own a well-cared-for property in a quaint, peaceful setting. Tucked along a low-traffic street and bordered by trees along the side and back, it offers a sense of privacy that's hard to find this close to the coast. The home has been carefully updated over time, including a roof replacement in 2016 with 30-year architectural shingles, updated HVAC, new siding, and newer appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher, washer, and dryer). It's offered furnished with only a few exclusions, so it's ready to enjoy from day one - whether you're looking for a full-time residence, a seasonal beach getaway, or a rental property. Inside, there's a comfortable, open feel with plenty of natural light. The kitchen has been updated with granite countertops and white cabinetry, and it flows easily into a dining nook surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, with direct access to the side deck. The main level also includes the primary bedroom and bath, living area, laundry, and a second full bath. Upstairs, you'll find two additional bedrooms and a half bath, along with a separate Mitsubishi unit to keep the temperature consistent and comfortable. Several of the bedrooms have direct access to outdoor spaces, giving the home a nice indoor-outdoor connection and making it easy to take advantage of the coastal setting. Additional features include ceiling fans throughout, an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a perfect beach day, and multiple patio and deck access points. Between the natural light, the private surroundings, and the functional layout, the home offers a comfortable and easygoing space to enjoy Holden Beach.
Residential
MLS# 100572390
REAL Broker LLC
Holden Beach Sold Homes
$250,000
141 Seagull Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.11
Acres,
Lovely lot on Holden Beach with Bulkhead and unobstructed views. This lot is fenced on 3 sides, level and can be purchased with 139 Seagull next door or by itself. Town of Holden Beach has public sewer and water available.
Land
MLS# 100541978
PROACTIVE Real Estate
, 1042 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$275,000
1042 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.23
Acres,
Seize this rare chance to build your custom dream home in the private community of Pointe West on Holden Beach. This picturesque neighborhood features charming raised Cape-style homes nestled amid lush landscaping. Imagine: Ocean access via your private gated walkway, just steps from your door. Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) access directly across the street with a nature walkway, dock, and day boat slips—perfect for boating, fishing, and relaxing. Minimum building requirement of 1600 sq. ft. Enjoy all that this welcoming community has to offer... local restaurants, community park, basketball, tennis & pickleball courts, splash pad, fishing docks and a public boat ramp! Create your perfect beach retreat today!
Land
MLS# 100552084
PROACTIVE Real Estate
, 862 Ocean Boulevard W, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$280,000
862 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.12
Acres,
Prime Second-Row Homesite with Expansive Marsh Views & Deeded Beach Access.
Dreaming of coastal living? This exceptional second-row homesite offers sweeping marsh views and deeded beach access conveniently located at 865 Ocean Blvd West—just steps from your future front door. The ideal setting to build your custom beach retreat and embrace the laid-back lifestyle of Holden Beach.
Enjoy the best of both worlds with this south-facing lot, where you'll be greeted by radiant sunrises over the ocean and stunning sunsets across the tranquil marsh. Just minutes from local dining, boutique shopping, and popular island attractions, this location offers both serenity and convenience.
Opportunities like this are rare—secure your slice of coastal paradise today. Inquire for more details!
Land
MLS# 100520064
PROACTIVE Real Estate
, 1037 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$335,000
1037 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.26
Acres,
Beautiful homesite on the marsh at Pointe West. High elevation affords maximum views of the ICW and marsh.
Quick access to the beach by way of the private Pointe West beach access. Quiet nature path leads to day docks on the ICW.
Subject to covenants and restrictions including architectural review and builder restriction. Recent survey as well as wetlands delineation attached to the listing. Owners have worked with designer/ builder on a custom home plan for this site. Plan is available for review should potential buyer so desire.
Land
MLS# 100491923
Coastal Development & Realty
, 1035 Tide Ridge Drive, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$360,000
1035 Tide Ridge Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.36
Acres,
Large, lovely home site in the Pointe West community on the island of Holden Beach. Private beach access and a trail to the waterway/day docks are a few simple pleasures to appreciate. An architectural theme gives each home a tasteful pop of unique character. Gorgeous views are possible with construction at this location.
Land
MLS# 100482109
Coastal Development & Realty
$390,000
$563
347 Brunswick Avenue W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
1
Baths,
701
square feet,
Impressive Holden Beach Gem! Ocean views & peaceful sunsets await you. Move In condition & completely renovated since 2020. No HOA - this is a duplex setup but classified as a condo. Lots of outdoor living spaces including a large deck w/water view, covered front porch, & outdoor shower. Upgraded cabinets & vanities throughout. Spacious kitchen offers soft close drawers, granite countertops, tiled backsplash, & bar seating. All appliances remain including w/d. This comes furnished for the next owner. Enjoy lots of natural light, luxury vinyl plank floors, crown molding, ceiling fans, & lots of storage underneath for all your beach toys. Both Bedrooms connect to the bathroom. Plenty of storage space. Fiber cement siding, HVAC new in 2023. Roof 2019. Basic lawn care is shared adjacent owner.
Residential
MLS# 100547395
Fathom Realty NC LLC
$430,000
$450
1068 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
2
Baths,
1,012
square feet,
Ocean View 2BR/2BA Condo Fully Furnished with Pool, Tennis Court & Easy Beach Access. Embrace beachside living in this nicely maintained second-row condo, just steps from the shoreline, with beautiful ocean views from both balconies, master bedroom and the front room. Beach days are effortless with community beach access located just across the street. Completely furnished and move-in ready; ideal for use as a vacation rental, second home, or full-time residence.
Residential
MLS# 100535531
Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage
, 342 Ocean Boulevard W, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$450,000
342 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.16
Acres,
Dreaming of days on the beach. Buy and Build your coastal getaway. Short walk to beach access.
Land
MLS# 100529287
PROACTIVE Real Estate
$453,500
$374
258 Brunswick Avenue W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
2
Baths,
1,200
square feet,
Experience the charm of Holden Beach in this inviting 2BR/2BA condo with a flex room, just a short stroll from the sand and surf. Enjoy peek-a-boo ocean views from the covered front porch and from the covered upstairs porch off the flex room. Fresh interior paint, updated lighting, real-wood kitchen cabinetry, and new blinds throughout give the home a modern yet cozy feel.
The versatile flex room, with its own private covered deck and ocean glimpses, offers valuable additional space, perfect for an office, guest area, or optional sleeping quarters. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a full-time coastal home, this property delivers the ideal blend of comfort and convenience.
Relax on multiple covered porches—two in the front and two in the back—or soak up the sun, all while enjoying refreshing ocean breezes. The thoughtful layout maximizes the 1, 200 heated sq ft, with open living areas that flow seamlessly indoors and out.
Downstairs, a one-car garage—a rare feature in a Holden Beach condo—with a new garage door, plus a dedicated storage room, provide ample space for beach gear, bikes, and more.
With Holden Beach amenities such as a playground, boat ramp, tennis and basketball courts, and of course the beautiful beach—along with nearby shops and dining—everything you need is within reach. Ideal as a primary residence or a vacation rental, this coastal retreat is ready for its next owner.
Residential
MLS# 100531909
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolina Premier Properties
, 408 Ocean Boulevard W, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$475,000
408 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.11
Acres,
Court Ordered Sale! Imagine building your dream home on this second row, corner lot on Holden Beach, NC! .11 acre lot to build your permanent vacation or for a second row rental income opportunity. Just a few minutes to public beach access.
Land
MLS# 100545296
PROACTIVE Real Estate
$500,000
836 & 838 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.26
Acres,
Great opportunity to buy this large second row lot that is located marsh front. 112' of road frontage. You will have spectacular sunset views from the back. Build your dream home and enjoy all that Holden Beach has to offer. Holden Beach is located between Myrtle Beach and Wilmington for easy day trips. RELAX, you're at the beach.
Land
MLS# 100523906
RE/MAX at the Beach / Holden Beach
$505,000
$619
297 Sand Piper Lane
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
1
Baths,
854
square feet,
Welcome to your ocean view beach getaway! Nestled on a quiet street just a stone's throw away from the beach! In this prime location, you'll find yourself less than 5 minutes away from convenient beach access. This home is currently an active AirBnB booked through Summer 2025!
Step inside this turnkey, fully furnished property and discover a well-appointed interior that perfectly combines comfort and coastal charm. The house features two inviting bedrooms and a shared bathroom. Additionally, an outdoor shower awaits, providing a delightful way to rinse off the beach sand. The roof was replaced in 2021 and there is a spacious outdoor storage room complete with beach chairs, towels, boards and a cart to carry it all to the beach as well as a newer washer and dryer.
The true highlight of this beach house is its location, at the end of a dead-end street and next to over 17 acres of natural coastal land full of wildlife such as birds, deer and rabbits. Relax on one of the covered decks and enjoy the ocean views.
Residential
MLS# 100494521
Intracoastal Realty Corp
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Holden Beach
What is the cost of living?
Housing is the biggest expense in the cost-of-living measures in Holden Beach. In 2026, the median home value is around $659,000. The oceanfront homes of the area command higher prices. The overall cost-of-living index is above the national average. It measures at 31% higher than the national average. The town rate for property taxes, however, helps to mitigate things a little bit with a low rate of $.14 per $100 of evaluation.
What are schools like?
The public schools in the area are part of the Brunswick County School District. Nearby options include Virginia Williamson Elementary, Supply Elementary, Cedar Grove Middle School, and West Brunswick High School.
What is the weather like?
There’s a mild coastal climate with warm Summers and pleasant shoulder seasons. There are mild winters, and it is pleasant for year-round outdoor activity. If you’re relocating from an outside area, it is good to know that there is a hurricane season from June 1 to November 30. Being close to the water means higher chances of flooding when a large storm impacts the area. It is good to become knowledgeable about hurricane preparation when purchasing properties in the area.
What are the amenities for daily life in the area?
In a small coastal town, many people ask where they utilize retail for their daily life needs. The island itself is limited to commercial development. Many people cross the bridge into Shallot for grocery shopping, restaurants, and other services. It is a short drive. Additionally, larger beach towns like Wilmington and Myrtle Beach are about 45 to 60 minutes away.
What healthcare is available?
There are healthcare services through the local clinic known as Holden Beach Medical Center. The nearest hospital is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, about 15 to 20 minutes away in Bolivia.
What is the job market like?
There’s limited employment within the town itself, though there are some jobs in the tourism sector and some seasonal positions. People in the workforce living in Holden Beach commute to neighboring areas, and some people work remotely.
What are some key beach use rules for the area?
The area does have some specific beach usage rules. Some of them include no leaving equipment overnight, protecting the dunes, no driving on the beach, fishing requires a North Carolina license, and other standard common courtesy usage rules.
What are some of the challenges of living in Holden Beach?
- Housing costs are higher, and housing inventory is limited
- Insurance costs can be a little higher due to the location near the water
- Accessing modern amenities does require traveling to neighboring towns
- Being a location on the water brings seasonal crowds
- Less to do compared to other nearby beach locations
What are the biggest benefits of living in Holden Beach?
- It is peaceful and beautiful and rarely crowded. It is not over-commercialized, which keeps it very focused on nature at the beach.
- You can enjoy the beach year-round because the weather is mild and pleasant
- It is a very safe and quiet community with strong pride in property ownership, and a focus on a quality living environment
- It is the ideal location for those searching for a beautiful coastal home that is removed from commercialism, yet not too far away