Holly Ridge

Holly Ridge sits on the mainland end of NC-50/210, roughly midway between Hampstead and Sneads Ferry. Incorporated in 1941 to serve the U.S. Army’s World War II anti-aircraft training base, Camp Davis, the town now totals about 5,800 residents.

Branding itself the “Gateway to Topsail Island,” Holly Ridge provides the first grocery stores, gas stations, and big-box options before visitors cross the bridge into Surf City. Military heritage remains strong—Camp Lejeune borders the northwest edge, influencing both the economy and community events.

Compared with bedroom-community Hampstead, Holly Ridge is more compact and blue-collar, yet its proximity to the beaches (about 7 miles) and U.S. 17 keeps real-estate growth steady. New parks and a revamped Main Street aim to balance small-town charm with incoming development.