Top reasons to visit Wrightsville Beach
- Stunning Beaches: Wrightsville Beach boasts beautiful sandy shores and pristine waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a range of watersports, golfing, and scenic boardwalk strolls, catering to adventure seekers and families alike.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit the Wrightsville Beach Museum and engage with local customs, enriching your understanding of the area.
- Picturesque Harbour: Take a sunset cruise for breathtaking views and a memorable evening on the water.
- Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of charming hotels and rentals, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.
Find great hotels in and around Wrightsville Beach
Discover the perfect retreat at one of Wrightsville Beach's charming hotels, designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers. With a warm welcome for all, including the LGBTQIA community, you can enjoy an adventure-filled vacation experience. Explore a range of accommodation options, from hotels and guesthouses to vacation rentals, all within easy reach of the stunning coastline and nearby Wilmington.
- Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites: Nestled directly on the beautiful sands of Wrightsville Beach, Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites offers a charming family-friendly retreat. This 3.5-star resort boasts spacious oceanfront suites, allowing guests to wake up to stunning sea views. Ideal for families, the resort provides a variety of children’s amenities such as highchairs and pool gates, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for younger guests. Enjoy direct beach access and relax by the pool, or savour a delightful breakfast with family in the comfort of your suite.
- Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy: For those seeking adventure and excitement, Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy is an excellent choice. This 3-star retreat features direct beach access and offers a plethora of adventure sports and recreational activities, including surfing lessons and boat tours. Families will appreciate the variety of amenities designed for children, such as games and a ping pong table. With a guest rating of 8.6, this property is perfect for those looking to make the most of their beach holiday while engaging in thrilling outdoor experiences.
- Comfort Inn University: Located just a short drive from Wrightsville Beach, Comfort Inn University provides a budget-friendly option for families looking to explore the area. This hotel, rated 8.6 by guests, offers essential amenities and is equipped with free cribs for little ones, along with a first aid kit for peace of mind. Its proximity to the beach allows for easy access to the sun and surf, while also being situated near local attractions, making it a convenient choice for family vacations.
Where to stay in and around Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers a delightful blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant outdoor activities, making it perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Explore the stunning beauty of the area, with easy beach access and the charming atmosphere of downtown Wilmington nearby. Whether you're seeking excursions or a tranquil getaway, Wrightsville Beach and its surrounding regions cater to all, providing a friendly, welcoming vibe for every traveller.
- South End: Nestled around the vibrant area of Wrightsville Beach, South End is a delightful neighbourhood that offers an inviting blend of beachside charm and recreational activities. While traveller arrivals remain steady throughout the year, the peak season is from June to August, drawing visitors for its romantic beach experiences and outdoor adventures. The area features a picturesque boardwalk, a fairground show ground, and ample recreational spaces, making it perfect for families and couples alike. Notable local landmarks include the beautiful beach and the welcoming town neighbourhood, which provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and sunset views.
- South Harbor Island: Located adjacent to Wrightsville Beach, South Harbor Island is a family-friendly neighbourhood that captivates visitors with its serene coastal atmosphere. Similar to its neighbours, the arrival of travellers tends to peak in the summer months, with December to February being quieter. Families flock to South Harbor Island for its outdoor activities, including a scenic golf course and lively boardwalk. The local beaches and welcoming neighbourhood ambiance create an ideal setting for family outings and relaxation, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.
- Masonboro Island Reserve: Situated approximately 8km from Wrightsville Beach, Masonboro Island Reserve is a stunning natural haven perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This island features a nature reserve that offers unique opportunities for exploration and wildlife observation. Like the other areas, visitor numbers peak in the summer months, providing a city-themed experience infused with beachside relaxation. Popular activities include visiting the recreational areas and enjoying the nearby golf course, while the surrounding beaches and island landscapes make it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquillity and adventure in nature.
Things to do in Wrightsville Beach
Shopping
In Wrightsville Beach, visit local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs along the scenic streets. If you're up for a drive, head to Mayfaire Town Center, just over 16km away, where you'll find a mix of national retailers, boutiques, and dining options.
Recreation
The Yoga on Wrightsville Beach offers tranquil sessions on the sand, allowing you to connect with nature while practicing mindfulness. For rejuvenation, visit the nearby Mandara Spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments that incorporate local ingredients, enhancing relaxation and overall well-being.
Adventure
In Wrightsville Beach, explore the scenic coastline through kayaking or paddleboarding, offering thrilling encounters with marine life. Engage in surfing at popular spots like Wrightsville Beach Park, where waves beckon adventurers. For a unique experience, try stand-up paddleboarding at sunset, capturing stunning views of the horizon.
Nightlife
Visit the Bridge Tender on Wrightsville Avenue for a lively atmosphere and enjoy their cocktails. For a more relaxed evening, head to the Palm Room, where you can unwind with a chilled drink while listening to local musicians play.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach provides numerous opportunities for budget-friendly activities, including free access to its beaches and attractions like the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and Figure Eight Island. For transport, consider walking or cycling to save on costs, as these options are readily available. The most economical time to visit is from December to February, with Tuesday being the cheapest day to stay. To maximise savings, use Expedia’s search tools to find the best deals on hotels and consider booking packages that combine flights and activities for added discounts.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Wrightsville Beach are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Wrightsville Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Wrightsville Beach is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most economical hotel options appear first. Furthermore, you have the ability to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Wrightsville Beach with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is ideal for family vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as the stunning beach, Wrightsville Beach Park, and the Wrightsville Beach Museum. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're interested in sunbathing or exploring the area's historic sites, Wrightsville Beach has something for everyone.
- Screen Gems Studios: Located 6km from Wrightsville Beach, this renowned film studio offers a glimpse into the world of filmmaking. Visitors can enjoy guided tours showcasing set designs and behind-the-scenes production insights, all within a friendly atmosphere that reflects the vibrant local community.
- Bellamy Mansion Museum: Situated 14km from Wrightsville Beach, this historic house museum exudes cultural charm. Its stunning architecture and beautifully restored interiors provide a fascinating look into 19th-century life and the rich history of the region.
- Cape Fear Museum: Just 13km from Wrightsville Beach, this engaging history museum features exhibits that celebrate the area's cultural heritage. Discover local artefacts, interactive displays, and a deep dive into the region's past, all within a culturally rich environment.
Best time to go to Wrightsville Beach
The best time to visit Wrightsville Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Wrightsville Beach
Accessing Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is convenient via several major airports. WILMington International Airport (ILM) is located 13km away and offers nearby accommodation options such as Hotel Ballast Wilmington, ARRIVE Wilmington, and Graystone Inn, all approximately 5km from the airport. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is 119km from Wrightsville Beach, with hotels like Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa and Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave situated within 13km. Lastly, Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville is 71km away, with options including Chateau Rouge and Best Rest Inn nearby. All hotels provide easy access to their respective airports for a seamless travel experience.