Bald Head Island, Coastal village in Brunswick County, North Carolina
Bald Head Island sits on the east side of Cape Fear River and features beaches, maritime forests, and salt marshes all within its boundaries. These different landscapes create a variety of habitats across the island's terrain.
The original 1794 lighthouse disappeared due to coastal erosion, prompting construction of Old Baldy in 1817 as a replacement. This second tower remains the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina and marks the island's adaptation to environmental changes.
The island is known for its sea turtle protection efforts, with nesting areas that locals actively watch over and protect. Visitors notice how conservation work shapes daily life and community priorities here.
The island relies only on electric golf carts for transportation, with no cars allowed. Access depends entirely on ferry service from Southport for both visitors and residents.
The island hosts one of the largest sea turtle nesting areas in the region, where the local Conservancy operates as the only authorized organization to tag nesting turtles for the state. This specialized work draws researchers and conservation efforts from around the world.
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