My hubby, 3 kids and I took our first boat ride to Bald Head Island (BHI) this past weekend, for a day trip…or so we thought. We docked our boat at the marina for the day, picked up a golf cart (remember to call ahead a day or so to reserve a slip and a golf cart-someone was turned away due to not having a reservation for golf cart while we were picking ours up), and went off on our excursion. "Old Baldy" (BHI's lighthouse) was our first stop. It was hot, and a bit steep but worth the adventure to stand up-top of Old Baldy. Beautiful views (only 4-5 people max fit at the top, the last climb to the top is a narrow ladder). The area is pristine, full of lush vegetation, a true oasis. We continued riding around, when we decided to see if MARSH HARBOUR INN had any room for us.
MARSH HARBOUR INN: As you enter this beautiful property you take note of the clean, beautiful, and warm hardwoods, tranquil colors and beach decor, yet stunning enough to rival a model home. Plenty of room to spread out: Large living room with comfy couches and seating, books, games for kids, etc., front deck & screened porch, another deck in the back with beautiful water views in the distance, a dinning room with plenty of tables for guests.
I asked a young boy (12-13 years old) who was meticulously cleaning the large hardwood staircase, with wood cleaner and hand rag if there was any vacancies for a family of 5, he quickly went to inquire. We were then greeted by JO, the manager on duty. She was very pleasant, willing to work with us and had the perfect solution. Room #8, with 2 queen beds and private bath, armoire, dresser, TV, free wi-fi; she also offered a roll out bed for one of our kids (it was larger than a twin, perfect for one of our kiddos or an adult for that matter). The room came with a golf cart big enough for our family and breakfast, which was simple yet, beautifully presented with belgium waffles, fruits and berries, toast, english muffins, bagels, various muffins, even pre assembled omelet that were great that I reheated in the microwave for 1.5 minutes and made a yummy english muffin breakfast sandwich with; a mix of cereals, yogurt, coffee, juice, milk.
The room was clean, comfortable even for a family of 5. Its on the 2nd floor of the 3 story home. Nice wide hallways, even a secondary sitting area on the 2nd floor with more comfy seating, pillows…a perfect little get away to just sit and read.
Jo was there from the time we got there to the following morning. She really made us feel like family! Jo and another friendly female (sorry I can't recall her name) offered us plenty of options and ideas of what to do around BHI, as they knew this was our first time there. They were very accommodating. Jo really made us feel welcomed and right at home!
As previously mentioned BHI is pristine, absolutely beautiful with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, Frying Pan Shoals and an expansive, clean beach. We loved walking the simple, planked boardwalk over the dunes at Beach Access 39. Once you are over the dunes, all you see is beach. Our first day there, the ocean was calm and just perfect for spending time frolicking in the water.
We found out (from Jo) that for $30/day you can go to the Bald Head Island Club where they have a pool, tennis and 3 restaurants (also golf, but I'm sure there's an extra charge for that). Something we would love to do next time!
We had lunch at MOJO's: grouper BLT was delicious and the tropical drinks yummy, but pricey. Beautiful views, outdoor and indoor seating, clean and nicely decorated.
We had dinner at DELFINA CANTINA: more of a mexican food type place, everything we ordered was delicious. Both places again were very friendly, and accommodating.
We cannot wait to go back, it was a perfect weekend getaway and memorable! Hope to be back real soon.