Holden Beach is a seaside town located in Brunswick County, North Carolina, within the United States. It sits on an eight-mile-long barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean, bounded by Shallotte Inlet to the west and Lockwoods Folly Inlet to the east. The Intracoastal Waterway defines its northern boundary, separating it from the mainland. Administratively, the town is part of the Wilmington Metropolitan Statistical Area and functions as a distinct municipal entity within the North Carolina Coastal Plain.

The island's history traces back to 1756 when Benjamin Holden purchased tracts of land, using the area for fishing and cattle grazing. His grandson, John Holden, established a commercial fishery and surveyed Holden Beach Resort in 1924, creating the first subdivision of beach property in the county. The town was officially incorporated on February 14, 1969, following slow rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Hazel in 1954. A new high-rise bridge dedicated in 1986 improved access to the growing residential community.

The town occupies a total area of 3.4 square miles, with significant portions covered by water. Notable landmarks include the wreck of the CSS Bendigo, a Confederate blockade runner visible during low tide on the eastern end of the island. The interdenominational Holden Beach Chapel, originally built in the 1940s and rebuilt after Hurricane Hazel, serves the local community. The landscape is characterized by narrow roads and residential developments that have expanded from early vacation rentals to a permanent town.

Visitor appeal centers on the island's relaxed coastal atmosphere and recreational opportunities. The area offers bike-friendly roads with self-guided tours available through local rental services like Boomers Rentals. Culinary attractions include Betty's Waterfront Restaurant, Seafood Barn, The Scoop for ice cream, and Cappuccino by the Sea. Coastal Vacation Resorts provides a range of accommodations, from budget cottages to larger vacation homes, catering to tourists seeking a seaside retreat.

As of the 2020 census, Holden Beach had a population of 921 residents. The economy is supported by tourism and real estate, with historical data indicating median household incomes around $52,206 in the early 2010s. Access to the island is provided via North Carolina Highway 130, which crosses the Intracoastal Waterway. The town connects to Shallotte, located ten miles northwest on the mainland, facilitating travel for both residents and visitors arriving from outside the immediate coastal region.