Named after the Holden family. Benjamin Holden bought the island in 1756. After several generations of farming and fishing, the Holden family began developing a resort community on the island in the 1920's. Holden Beach boasts some of the most spectacular homes in our area and officially received National Healthy Beach status through the National Healthy Beaches Campaign. Among its other recognitions, Holden Beach was rated one of the best family beaches in the country by National Geographic Traveler magazine. In order to truly experience the culture of this beach, visit during one of its annual festivals, A Day at the Docks in April or Festival by the Sea in October.