Located at the tip of Cape Fear, Bald Head Island is one of North Carolina’s most exclusive barrier islands. Its 12,000 acres of beach, marsh and forest are a world away from the bustle of city life.
Beachfront dining, swimming pools, direct beach access and creative children’s programming deliver a new seaside experience to members.
Swimming Pools
The pristine beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Fear River blend with a new aquatic center at Bald Head Island pools to create an experience unlike any other in North Carolina. Located on an island that can only be reached by passenger ferry or private vessel, the club’s pool complex is nestled among towering palm trees, offering spectacular vistas of both the water and the beach.
Miracle Pools was responsible for the construction of the facility’s three pool areas—a resort-style recreational pool featuring a zero-entry, a new lap pool, and a children’s splash pad with interactive water features. The design also incorporates trellis-covered lounge seating along the lap pool, chaise ledge loungers, and a Cabana Bar to serve as a gathering space for adult socialization.
Members and guests are encouraged to dress in a tasteful manner at all times while using the Aquatics Center, including the two large waterslides. Inappropriate attire, excessively revealing swimwear, or behavior that conflicts with the Club dress code will not be tolerated. All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Tennis Courts
The club offers four tennis courts, recently resurfaced with MondoTen (a rubberized coating that’s easy on the joints but doesn’t impact the spin of the ball) and staffed during the summer season by United States Professional Tennis Association pros. Daily clinics, social activities and private lessons for children 3 and up are offered. A Tennis Pro Shop sells men’s and women’s apparel, Babolat tennis racquets, balls and accessories.
Golf
Meandering through the maritime forest, the 18-hole Championship George Cobb designed golf course challenges players as they play by freshwater lagoons and dune ridges overlooking the ocean. The course is also bordered by the lively natural habitats of herons, ospreys, egrets, deer and foxes. A well stocked pro shop keeps the golfer perfectly outfitted.
Tennis and Croquet
The club’s croquet greenswards are a lovely venue for this venerable game, and regular croquet tournaments are held. In addition to tennis and croquet, the club offers a variety of dining and lounge facilities, a fitness center, and supervised recreational programs for children and teens. Membership to The Defense Rests includes membership to the Bald Head Island Club, giving you access to all of these amenities as well as a beautiful beachfront location with stunning views of the Atlantic.
Fitness Center
At the Club, Members find a variety of ways to stay active. The recently resurfaced tennis courts are home to daily clinics and private lessons, while the Fitness Center offers an array of cardio and strength training equipment.
The Island’s temperate climate and “unplugged” pace make it an ideal environment for running, biking or swimming. Whether you choose to stroll along the beach, on the road or through the woods, you will encounter stunning views and natural habitats of loggerhead sea turtles, ospreys, herons, egrets and other native birds.
A golfer’s paradise, the Club’s acclaimed 18-hole course meanders over dunes and around lagoons, oceanfront and through a maritime forest preserve. With a golf staff to offer private lessons and camps, the course can be enjoyed by beginners or expert players alike.
By day, the Shoals Club is a place to hang out by the pool, take a walk on the beach or enjoy lunch al fresco at the Sandbar Grille. The Clubhouse, pool and locker room facilities, plus easy beach access and creative kids’ programming, provide a full range of seaside possibilities for Members and guests.
For an invigorating workout, the Club’s Fitness Center is open daily year round and is available to Full and Lifestyle Members. It features an array of cardio and weight training equipment, as well as small group or one-on-one personal training sessions.
Restaurants
The Bald Head Island Club is home to some of the best restaurants on the island. They have a great selection of food from fresh seafood to barbecue and burgers. They also have incredible cocktails and a wonderful selection of wines. They are also a great place to enjoy a romantic meal or drinks with friends.
The club has several great dining options like the Pelicatessen poolside which serves amazing deli style sandwiches. They also have grab-and-go lunch options like the Lunchables for kids and wraps for adults. They have a full bar and an excellent selection of wines and beers.
Other dining options include the Maritime Market Cafe which is inside the Maritime Market with a large seating area overlooking the harbor. They serve breakfast and lunch with a great menu of American cuisine. They also have great lunch specials and a full selection of cocktails.
They also have the Jule’s on the Harbor restaurant which is their fine dining option. They have grilled steak and fresh fish as well as a variety of delicious pasta dishes. They are known for their sunset views and have a full bar. They are a great spot to sit and count the boats as they pull into the marina while you enjoy a cocktail. They also have a full service wine shop and Port City Java coffee bar.
