Can You Rent a Golf Cart on Bald Head Island? Rules, Options, and Tips

On Bald Head Island you can use a cart included with many rentals or book daily from Cary Cart Company near the ferry. Reserve early during peak season.

Quick Overview

Bald Head Island is famous for slow-paced travel and shoreline scenery, and the most practical way to get around is by golf cart. Many vacation homes include the owner’s cart in the booking, while day renters can secure a vehicle through Cary Cart Company, conveniently located near the ferry landing (phone: 910-457-7333). Because demand is high—especially spring through late fall—it’s smart to plan ahead and confirm availability before you arrive.

How Rental Access Works

• Included with your home: A large number of island properties list a cart as part of the rental. The cart is typically stored and charging on-site; your host will share usage notes and charging instructions.
• Daily rentals: If your lodging doesn’t provide a cart or you need an extra, Cary Cart Company offers daily options right by the ferry. Phone reservations help you lock in the size and seating you need.
• Backup plans: If carts sell out on peak dates, consider biking for short hops and using a single cart to shuttle family and gear in a couple of quick trips.

Eligibility & Driver Requirements

How old do you have to be to drive a golf cart on Bald Head Island?
Cary Cart Company requires renters to be at least 21 years old and to hold a valid driver’s license. Additional terms (such as passenger rules, deposit, and damage coverage) apply—confirm the latest requirements when you reserve.

What to Expect When You Arrive

1. Pick-up: After the ferry, head to the rental desk near the landing or follow your host’s instructions for home-based pick-up.
2. Orientation: Staff or your host will walk you through charging, parking, rules of the road, and any island-specific guidelines.
3. Route planning: The island is easy to navigate; most guests pin favorite stops (maritime forest trails, the lighthouse, beach accesses) and plan a loop to minimize backtracking.

Smart Usage Tips

• Charge overnight: Plug in as soon as you return in the evening—morning range anxiety is real when you’re chasing sunrise shelling or lighthouse views.
• Mind the weather: Afternoon showers roll in quickly; stow towels, a light layer, and a dry bag for phones and wallets.
• Pack light but right: A soft cooler, water, reef-safe sunscreen, and a compact beach wagon make family days easy.
• Be courteous: Keep speeds calm near boardwalks and village clusters, yield to pedestrians, and park in designated spots.

How to Spend a Day on Bald Head Island

No matter your interests, a cart makes it simple to stitch together a full island day:

• Sunrise beach time: Start with a quiet walk; bring coffee in a sealed tumbler and watch pelicans skim the surf.
• Explore the creeks: Book a paddleboard or kayak outing through the protected marsh; watch for egrets and dolphins offshore.
• Old Baldy Lighthouse: Climb the historic tower for panoramic views, then browse the museum to round out the story.
• Golf or fishing: Tee it up for a late-morning round or cast from approved access points; ask local outfitters about tide timing.
• Maritime forest trails: Cool off under live oaks and palmettos; short loops are perfect for families.
• Sunset picnic: Cap the day with a seaside picnic—arrive early for parking and bring a compact blanket.

FAQs

Can I book a cart if my rental already includes one?

Yes, if you need extra seating or a backup. Just remember daily fleets can sell out—call 910-457-7333 ahead of time.

Do I need to bring a charger?

No—carts are provided with an appropriate charger. Confirm the outlet location with your host or the rental desk and avoid extension cords unless specifically permitted.

Is a cart necessary?

The island is spread out enough that a cart saves time and energy, especially with kids, beach gear, or multi-stop itineraries. For short stays downtown, bikes can complement a single cart nicely.

Costs & Insurance (What to Ask)

• What’s included: Clarify helmet policies for kids, rain covers, and on-island roadside assistance.
• Damage & deposits: Ask about deductible amounts and what’s covered. Photograph the cart at pickup and drop-off.
• Range expectations: Typical daily exploring is fine on a full charge, but frequent long loops benefit from a midday top-up.

Safety & Courtesy Essentials

• Stay alert: Wildlife and pedestrians share paths. Keep both hands on the wheel in busy stretches.
• Secure cargo: Use seat wells and bungees for coolers and beach umbrellas to prevent shifting loads.
• Night driving: Turn lights on at dusk, reduce speed, and watch for cyclists without lights.

Final Thoughts

Between home-included carts and daily rentals from Cary Cart Company, getting mobile on Bald Head Island is straightforward—just book early, confirm eligibility (21+ with valid license), and treat the island’s paths with care. If you’re researching modern platforms for personal property use elsewhere, explore contemporary golf carts that emphasize comfort, range, and intuitive controls to make everyday cruising as effortless as your island escape.