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
, 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
$399,900
$463
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 exclusions from the closets, ground-level storage area and the Porch Furniture that won't convey.
This property has excellent vacation rental potential, making it ideal for couples and small families looking to experience Holden Beach year-round. 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
, 298 Ocean Boulevard W, , ,press enter for more details, To favorite this property press control+s.
$420,000
$398
298 Ocean Boulevard W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
4
Beds,
2
Baths,
1,056
square feet,
Furnished...ocean views...maintenance free and a brand new HVAC? Say less!
Here is an exceptional opportunity to own a fully furnished, turnkey coastal retreat just steps from the sand at Holden Beach with beach access just across the street. Offering ocean views from the living room and private balcony, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath condominium is equally suited as a personal beach getaway or a high-performing investment property.
The spacious floor plan comfortably accommodates eight guests, with additional sleeping space potential if you were to utilize a pull out sofa, making it ideal for maximizing rental potential. The updated kitchen features modern finishes and flows seamlessly into the open living and dining areas, creating a welcoming space to gather after a day on the beach.
The HOA provides a sparkling in ground swimming pool for the development in the event you want to leave the sand and lounge by the pool.
HOA dues cover all exterior maintenance, and typically costly coastal insurance including flood insurance, wind/hail and hazard, laundry room, community pool, termite bond, management fees, landscaping, parking lot maintenance, pest control, roof maintenance.
Whether you're looking to enjoy coastal living full time, part time, or generate vacation rental income, this property offers the flexibility and convenience buyers are seeking. Being sold fully furnished, it is ready for immediate enjoyment or rental from day one with rentals already on the books. With ocean views, generous accommodations, and a proven location in one of Holden Beach's most desirable communities, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.
Residential
MLS# 100588928
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolina Premier Properties
$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
$475,000
867 Heron Landing Wynd
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.27
Acres,
Ready to bring your coastal vision to life on this spacious lot located on the peaceful area of Holden Beach. Offering beautiful views toward the Intracoastal Waterway and marsh in the back, this property is the perfect setting for your future beach retreat. Imagine morning coffee with salty breezes, afternoons spent walking along the shore, and evenings enjoying breathtaking coastal sunsets. This lot offers the opportunity to create a home that captures the relaxed, authentic spirit of Holden Beach. The seller/builder also has a proposed floor plan available to be built offering
4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, inverted floor plan, elevator, and lower den/media room (contact LA for more details and pricing for a To Be Built)...see photo of digital representation of possible future built home. Holden is unlike other beach destinations--a small island with a slower pace, a strong sense of community, and plenty of coastal charm, yet conveniently located within an easy drive of both Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Your Holden Beach dream starts here. Builder owners says, bring your plans, your vision, and come enjoy the coastal lifestyle you've been waiting for!
Land
MLS# 100595502
PROACTIVE Real Estate
$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
$549,900
$689
241 Brunswick Avenue W
Holden Beach, NC 28462
2
Beds,
1
Baths,
798
square feet,
Welcome to your ideal coastal escape! This quintessential Holden Beach original is perfectly situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering the ultimate setting to embrace relaxed island living. No HOA!
Inside, you'll find a light-filled, inviting layout highlighted by fresh paint, brand-new flooring throughout, and a beautifully updated full bathroom flanked by two spacious bedrooms. The cozy living room and functional eat-in kitchen make everyday living and hosting effortless.
The highlight of the home is the expansive wrap-around back porch--the perfect place to catch the ocean breeze, entertain guests, and take in seaside views. Downstairs offers exceptional practicality with a dedicated laundry room, secure beach storage, a classic outdoor shower to rinse off after a sun-filled day, and plenty of ground-level space for parking, outdoor games, and evening gatherings.
Residential
MLS# 100603122
Howard Hanna Allen Tate
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
$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
$535,000
141 Tuna Drive
Holden Beach, NC 28462
0.11
Acres,
This prime canal homesite on the island of Holden Beach offers a true boater's paradise. Featuring a bulkhead, floating dock, and lift, the property provides direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway. A short walk east or west along Ocean Blvd. leads to convenient beach access. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Holden Beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Land
MLS# 100547792
Coastal Development & Realty
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