Travel Guide To Wrightsville Beach, Nc

If you’re looking for a beach destination that offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina should be on your list. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a charming coastal town, Wrightsville Beach offers an unforgettable vacation experience. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Wrightsville Beach.

Top Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Wrightsville Beach is the Johnnie Mercer’s Pier. It’s a great spot for fishing, people-watching, and enjoying the stunning views. The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History is another must-visit attraction that offers insights into the town’s rich history and culture.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for a hidden gem, head to the Masonboro Island Reserve. It’s a secluded island that’s perfect for a day trip, offering a scenic beach, hiking trails, and a wide variety of wildlife. Another hidden gem is the Airlie Gardens, which features 67 acres of beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a historic home.

Food Scene

Wrightsville Beach has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. For seafood lovers, there’s no better place than the Dockside Restaurant, which offers fresh seafood dishes and breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway. If you’re looking for something more casual, head to the South Beach Grill, which is known for its delicious burgers and seafood.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Wrightsville Beach can be expensive, especially during the peak season. However, there are plenty of ways to save money. One of the best ways is to visit during the off-season when prices are lower. You can also save money by booking your accommodations in advance and by taking advantage of the free activities, such as hiking and exploring the beaches.

Outdoor Adventures

Wrightsville Beach is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, surfing, and kayaking. If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, try paddleboarding in the Intracoastal Waterway or taking a guided kayak tour of the local salt marshes.

Historical Landmarks

Wrightsville Beach is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. One of the most famous is the Wrightsville Beach Water Tower, which was built in 1926 and is now a popular landmark. Another must-visit historical site is the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which played a crucial role in the Civil War.

Family-Friendly Activities

Wrightsville Beach is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is a must-visit attraction that offers a wide variety of marine life exhibits. You can also take a family-friendly bike ride along the scenic River to Sea Bikeway.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, head to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. It’s a lively spot that’s perfect for people-watching, enjoying the local food scene, and soaking up the atmosphere. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is taking a ferry to Bald Head Island, which offers a quiet and secluded beach experience.

Natural Wonders

Wrightsville Beach is surrounded by natural wonders, including the stunning beaches, salt marshes, and wildlife. One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty is by taking a guided eco-tour of the local salt marshes or by hiking through the Carolina Beach State Park.

Vibrant Nightlife

Wrightsville Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of options for live music, dancing, and cocktails. One of the best spots is the Oceanic Restaurant, which offers live music and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re looking for something more low-key, head to the Bluewater Waterfront Grill, which offers a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.

Local Markets

Wrightsville Beach has a thriving local market scene, with plenty of options for fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts. The Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market is a must-visit attraction that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods. You can also visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for a selection of local crafts and souvenirs.

Beaches and Mountains

Wrightsville Beach is known for its stunning beaches, but it’s also located near the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, take a day trip to the mountains for hiking, biking, and exploring the local towns and attractions.

Cultural Immersion

Wrightsville Beach has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. One of the best ways is by attending one of the local festivals, such as the North Carolina Azalea Festival or the Cape Fear Blues Festival. You can also visit the Cameron Art Museum for a selection of local art and exhibitions.

Art and Music Scene

Wrightsville Beach has a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of options for live music, theater, and art exhibitions. One of the best spots is the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, which offers a wide variety of live performances and events. You can also visit the New Elements Gallery for a selection of local art and exhibitions.

Walking Tours

Wrightsville Beach is a great destination for walking tours, with plenty of historic landmarks and scenic routes to explore. One of the best walking tours is the Historic Wilmington Foundation walking tour, which takes you through the historic districts and landmarks in Wilmington. You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the local beaches and town.

Architectural Marvels

Wrightsville Beach is home to some stunning architectural marvels, including the Wrightsville Beach Water Tower and the Bellamy Mansion Museum. Another must-visit architectural marvel is the Battleship North Carolina, which is a historic battleship that’s now open for tours and events.

Historical Sites

Wrightsville Beach is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. One of the most famous is the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which played a crucial role in the Civil War. You can also visit the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens, which is a restored historic home that’s now open for tours.

Biking Routes

Wrightsville Beach is a great destination for biking, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. One of the best biking routes is the River to Sea Bikeway, which takes you from the Wilmington Riverwalk to the beach. You can also explore the local beaches and town by bike.

Wellness Retreats

Wrightsville Beach is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of options for yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. One of the best spots is the Blockade Runner Beach Resort, which offers a wide variety of wellness programs and treatments. You can also take a yoga class on the beach or explore the local salt marshes by paddleboard.

Adventure Sports

Wrightsville Beach is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. If you’re looking for a unique adventure, try kiteboarding or windsurfing in the Atlantic Ocean. You can also take a guided eco-tour of the local salt marshes or explore the local beaches by kayak.

Wrightsville Beach has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous outdoor experience, or a cultural immersion. Use this guide to plan your perfect vacation in Wrightsville Beach, NC.