Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is known as the home of some of the best surf on the U.S. east coast. It also features clean, uncrowded beaches and the clear, warm waters of the Gulf Stream.
At just just 5 miles (8 kilometers) long, this island lends itself to exploring on foot. There is really no reason to get into your car with many of the best activities and attractions within walking distance of each other.
Learn about the town and its history by visiting the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History. This is housed in a turn-of-the-century beach cottage. Take a look at the scale model of the town circa 1910 as well as exhibits that feature the island’s early days and its hurricane history.
If you’re in town on a Monday during the summer, stop by the Wrightsville Beach Farmer's Market. Here, you can shop for regional handcrafted items, fresh produce grown on local farms and locally caught seafood. Browse downtown shops to find anything from beachwear and surfing equipment, to unique gifts and antiques.
A short walk from downtown is Wrightsville Beach Park where you can take a surfing lesson or spend time soaking up the sun. Bring your binoculars and watch the native marsh birds and loggerhead sea turtles. Rent a kayak and take the 5-mile (8-kilometer) kayaking trail winding through the marshes. Join the locals and take part in one of the most popular island activities: walking or running “The Loop.” This 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) scenic path circles the park as well as the natural marshes.
At the end of the day, there are many options for dinner. Choose from hot dogs at the beach, to one of many eateries featuring local seafood such as mussels in blue cheese, king crab legs or clams smothered in garlic and butter sauce.
Finish the day with a visit to the waterfront. There are a number of venues featuring live music by local bands. Sip a cold beer or cocktail on an outdoor patio with sweeping ocean views.
Wrightsville Beach
Visit Wrightsville Beach
Reviews of Wrightsville Beach
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful beach and not very crowded. Found some large pieces of sea glass. Dolphins are in the water and amazing site to see them go by.
3/5 - Okay
Long busy drive to the beach from here
5/5 - Excellent
The pier house has a very small place to eat, but you didn't feel like you were being hustled away. Because of the wind, I chose to stay inside while husband fished. All the staff was very pleasant, plus the breakfast special was excellent.
5/5 - Excellent
Stay at least 3 days to enjoy some of the activities in the area or just to take in the beach that had a bar/grill. They have corn hole toss if you want a little activity there on the resort.
3/5 - Okay
Wanted to rent umbrellas and chairs for the beach but there are none to be had. I had to go to a surf shop and rent them and take them there. No fun. Will not go back.
5/5 - Excellent
Public beach parking may be limited in prime season/days. Afternoon showers/storms may cause mass exodus off the beaches (e.g. slow traffic)
Popular places to visit
New Hanover County Arboretum
Explore the great outdoors at New Hanover County Arboretum, a lovely green space in Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.
Johnnie Mercer's Pier
You can learn about the history of Wrightsville Beach with a trip to Johnnie Mercer's Pier. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of North Carolina at Wilmington as part of your travels around Wilmington. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
Hugh Macrae Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hugh Macrae Park, a lovely green space in Wilmington. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
South End Surf Shop
Enjoy an outing to South End Surf Shop during your stay in Wrightsville Beach. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
Aussie Island Surf Shop
Enjoy an outing to Aussie Island Surf Shop during your stay in Wrightsville Beach. Stroll along the seaside or attend a sporting event in the area.
Best Lodging Options Near Wrightsville Beach
Check availability on hotels close to Wrightsville Beach
- Vacations and getaways similar to Wrightsville Beach
- Hotels near popular Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Biltmore Estate
- Harrahs Cherokee Casino
- Duke University
- Lake Norman
- Bank of America Stadium
- Charlotte Motor Speedway
- Grandfather Mountain
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore
- NASCAR Hall of Fame
- North Carolina Zoo
- Wake Forest University
- Fort Liberty
- Appalachian State University
- University of North Carolina at Wilmington