Hotels in Holly Ridge

Holly Ridge: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Lakeside Adventure

Nestled just a few steps from the stunning Topsail Beach, Holly Ridge, North Carolina, is a charming coastal town that offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Families can bask on sandy shores, explore the picturesque jetty pier, or enjoy tranquil afternoons by the lake. The inviting neighborhood atmosphere makes it perfect for leisurely strolls and quality time together. With easy access to vibrant Myrtle Beach, Holly Ridge serves as an ideal off-the-beaten-path retreat for those seeking both beachside bliss and local charm. Discover the essence of coastal living in this hidden gem! For the best hotel rates in Holly Ridge and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Holly Ridge

Some of the best places to stay in Holly Ridge are Downtown Wilmington, Shell Island and Landfall. Holly Ridge, North Carolina, offers great access to nearby attractions like Downtown Wilmington, Shell Island, and Landfall. Downtown Wilmington is ideal for first-time visitors, with vibrant shops and restaurants. Shell Island provides stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, while Landfall features upscale living and golf courses. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to luxurious resorts, making it easy to find the perfect stay, whether you prefer a beachside retreat or a downtown escape. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Holly Ridge:

1. Downtown WilmingtonOpens in a new window: Known for its romantic atmosphere, Downtown Wilmington boasts a scenic Riverwalk along the waterfront, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. The area also features the Wilmington Convention Center for business travelers and the Battleship North Carolina for history buffs. For accommodations, consider Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that caters to adventure and family themes, offering business amenities like a conference space and various recreational activities nearby. Another great option is ARRIVE WilmingtonOpens in a new window, also a 4-star property that welcomes pets and provides a comfortable stay for animal lovers. Lastly, Graystone InnOpens in a new window is ideal for business travelers with its meeting rooms and professional services.
2. Shell IslandOpens in a new window: This beach-themed destination offers direct access to Wrightsville Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Shell Island is close to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and Mayfaire Town Center for shopping. For your stay, Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront SuitesOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star resort that provides a variety of adventure activities and business amenities. Alternatively, Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a solid 3-star option with similar beach access and adventure sports, ensuring a memorable seaside getaway.
3. LandfallOpens in a new window: A family-friendly area, Landfall is near the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and features attractions like Wrightsville Beach and Mayfaire Town Center. For a comfortable stay, Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington LandfallOpens in a new window is a 3-star hotel that accommodates pets and offers business facilities, making it great for both leisure and work. SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville BeachOpens in a new window is another 3-star option, providing essential business amenities. Also, consider Homewood Suites Wilmington/MayfaireOpens in a new window, which supports adventure activities and is pet-friendly, catering to diverse traveler needs.

Things to do in Holly Ridge for first time

Holly Ridge offers a perfect three-day getaway with its stunning beaches, serene lakes, and charming town neighborhoods. Travelers can enjoy a variety of activities such as boating, hiking, and golfing, along with relaxing strolls along the boardwalk and vibrant music concerts, making it a delightful destination for families and nature lovers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Holly Ridge:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at North Topsail Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. Next, take a leisurely stroll to Seaview Pier, a perfect spot for fishing or simply enjoying the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Conclude your day at Bayshore Marina, where you can explore the marina, maybe even catch a glimpse of some local wildlife or enjoy a delightful meal at a nearby waterfront restaurant, making for a perfect evening by the water.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Surf City Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Afterward, head to Sloop Point Plantation, where you can learn about the area's rich history and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. To wrap up your day, visit Hampstead Kiwanis Park, a great place for a leisurely walk or a picnic, where you can unwind in the serene environment and perhaps catch a local event or two.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Cape Fear Community College, where you can appreciate the campus's architecture and perhaps check out any art exhibits. Next, explore the Thurston Art Gallery, showcasing local artists and their wonderful creations. Finally, make your way to Sea Haven Beach for some relaxation and reflection, taking in the stunning sunset views as your trip comes to a close, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Holly Ridge.

5 tips to find a great Holly Ridge hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Holly Ridge is during January, November, and December when hotel rates drop. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure lower fares. For a budget-friendly experience, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's attractions, including the beautiful beaches and the scenic lake. This way, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank, ensuring great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Holly Ridge, consider checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find fantastic discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a great rate, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Holly Ridge.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Choosing accommodations closer to major attractions or city centers may offer convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Holly Ridge and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Holly Ridge

Holly Ridge experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 47.1°F (8.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.6°F (27.0°C). August tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Holly Ridge are June, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Holly Ridge Travel Information