Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach showing a beach as well as a small group of people
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of VisitNC.com
Wrightsville Beach which includes general coastal views
Wrightsville Beach which includes general coastal views as well as a small group of people
Wrightsville Beach showing a sandy beach and general coastal views


This picturesque barrier island offers consistent waves for surfers, a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of outdoor activities.

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.

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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History & culture

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Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Trailborn Surf & Sound

Trailborn Surf & Sound

4 out of 5
275 Waynick Blvd, Wrightsville Beach, NC
Trailborn Surf & Sound
Surf Suites

Surf Suites

2.5 out of 5
711 S Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC
Surf Suites
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites

Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites

3.5 out of 5
2700 N Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach, NC
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites
Wrightsville Beach house 4 Bdr on the South End with Sunset Views of the Channel

Wrightsville Beach house 4 Bdr on the South End with Sunset Views of the Channel

Wrightsville Beach, NC
Wrightsville Beach house 4 Bdr on the South End with Sunset Views of the Channel
Oceanfront Paradise: Direct Beach Access, Media Room and Nearby Hotspots!

Oceanfront Paradise: Direct Beach Access, Media Room and Nearby Hotspots!

Wrightsville Beach, NC
Oceanfront Paradise: Direct Beach Access, Media Room and Nearby Hotspots!
Aquarium #159 - Soundfront Home on Wrightsville Beach w/ Private Dock!

Aquarium #159 - Soundfront Home on Wrightsville Beach w/ Private Dock!

Wrightsville Beach, NC
Aquarium #159 - Soundfront Home on Wrightsville Beach w/ Private Dock!
Sandpeddler Inn & Suites

Sandpeddler Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
15 Nathan St, Wrightsville Beach, NC
Sandpeddler Inn & Suites
Updated 3br/3ba Oceanfront townhome with ocean views and direct beach access.

Updated 3br/3ba Oceanfront townhome with ocean views and direct beach access.

Wrightsville Beach, NC
Updated 3br/3ba Oceanfront townhome with ocean views and direct beach access.
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

3 out of 5
1706 N Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach offers a delightful array of activities, including breathtaking sunrises, thrilling surfing, and enjoyable fishing experiences. A highlight of your visit should be indulging in scenic boat tours that showcase the beautiful coastline. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this charming beach destination has something for everyone.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Wrightsville Beach, visit Mayfaire Town Center, located 2.5km away, featuring a mix of shops and eateries. South End Surf Shop is a charming store just 373m away. If you're up for a drive, Thomas Tackle and Seafood is 13.7km away.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Freeman Park, where you can unwind amidst nature and enjoy leisurely walks along the beach. For a touch of entertainment, head to Live Oak Bank Pavilion for live music performances. If you prefer sports, Eagle Point Golf Club offers a scenic course for a relaxing game of golf.

Adventure

The Riverwalk, located 5.6km from Wrightsville Beach, offers a scenic boardwalk perfect for a romantic stroll with beach vibes. Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, 1.9km away, is a thrilling waterpark ideal for family entertainment. At Wrightsville SUP, 1.2km distant, embrace adventure with exciting water sports.

Nightlife

At Wrightsville Beach, enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, just 5.0km away, offering captivating performances. For a cinematic experience, head to Regal Mayfaire, 2.5km away, perfect for a romantic evening. For family fun, visit Topsail Skating Rink, 9.9km away, for arcade adventures.

Find the best attractions near Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach offers a delightful blend of attractions for tourists, featuring urban parks, modern colleges, and scenic jetties. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy family-friendly activities, and partake in outdoor experiences. Notable highlights include the Wrightsville Beach Museum and various popular attractions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in this charming coastal town.

  • Ogden Park: Situated 3.7km from Wrightsville Beach, Ogden Park offers a delightful escape with its family-friendly atmosphere and ample outdoor spaces. Enjoy picnicking, walking trails, and playgrounds amidst beautiful greenery, perfect for a relaxing day out.
  • Latimer House: Located 5.0km away, the Latimer House is a charming historic residence that immerses visitors in local culture. Explore its exquisite architecture and learn about the area's rich history through guided tours and engaging exhibits.
  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington: Just 2.5km from the beach, this modern university boasts a vibrant campus environment. Stroll through its picturesque grounds, enjoy art displays, and experience the lively student culture that the university fosters.

Best time to go to Wrightsville Beach

The best time to visit Wrightsville Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Wrightsville Beach falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Wrightsville Beach falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June77.9°F (25.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September76.1°F (24.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Wrightsville Beach

For a budget-friendly trip to Wrightsville Beach, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation rates, particularly on Tuesdays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find tailored deals by filtering prices from lowest to highest. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and local activities for additional savings. Enjoy free activities such as beach walks and local parks to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around 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 around Wrightsville Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Wrightsville Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Wrightsville Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.