A paved, multi-use path runs the length of Ocean Boulevard along the beach, perfect for strolling, biking, or rollerblading. You can also venture off into quiet neighborhoods along the side streets and Intracoastal canals. If you ride directly on the beach, be sure you check the tides first: The best and firmest sand is at mid-tide. The "Olden Holden Bike Tour" is a self-guided tour of the island's historic landmarks. Holden Beach traces its roots to the 1700s when the Holden family purchased surrounding plots of land and utilized the area for fishing and cattle. During the Civil War, several blockade-running ships ran aground offshore Holden Beach. 

Today, there are about 20 miles' worth of trails divided into three color-coded routes with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful Holden Beach in addition to historic context. The Pink Route is a 3.5-mile, east-end loop. Throughout the route, you'll pass markers for shipwrecks, the historic Ocean View Tavern, and an old airfield, to name a few. The Blue Route is a scenic, 5-mile loop through marshlands and waterways where you'll likely see wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, loggerhead turtles, offshore dolphins, and even the disappearing piping plover, as well as over 330 other bird species previously identified in Holden Beach.

The Orange Route is a west-end, 10-mile loop that encompasses parks and fishing areas. Through a gated community off the beach, you can also access one of Holden Beach's memory mailboxes, one of three around the island. Pack your fishing gear and stop for a picnic at Bridgeview Park or head to Holden Pier. Mountain bikers can also tackle Boyd Street Loop Trail, a mountain bike trail on the Intracoastal with sand and gravel terrain.

By Rebecca High   July 8, 2025 12:00 pm EST