Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Wrightsville Beach, NC

  • Published 2022/10/03

Wrightsville Beach is a town in North Carolina that offers a wide range of recreational opportunities.

It is referred to as New Hanover County and is located in the eastern region of North Carolina.

When it comes to beaches, Wrightsville Beach is widely regarded as the most popular site among inhabitants and visitors!

Scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and a variety of other watersports activities are just a few of the things that you can do in Wrightsville Beach.

Now let’s look at the 20 best things to do in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina!

Go Fishing at Crystal Pier

View of Crystal Pier

Charles Chadwick Talton / Shutterstock.com

A total of 475 feet separates Crystal Pier from the Atlantic Ocean.

Those looking for a fantastic eating experience, a pleasant walk, and fishing opportunities will enjoy this destination.

They are open for business from 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., and you can accomplish everything you want within this timeframe.

View of Crystal Pier

Charles Chadwick Talton / Shutterstock.com

Along with the usual activities such as walking, fishing, and dining, you can participate in various programs and events held at the location, such as Yoga.

Furthermore, if you believe that this location is ideal for various celebrations, you can make a reservation for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and a variety of other events!

Revisit History at Wrightsville Beach Museum of History

It is located at 303 W Salisbury St in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

It allows visitors to experience the items from the past that contributed to what Wrightsville Beach has become.

You can see the classic 1924 Bordeaux Cottage and the Myers Cottage, both built centuries back.

The primary purpose of this museum is to explain the story of Wrightsville Beach and the genuine joy that children, teenagers, and adults have while visiting the beach.

There, you may witness special displays that bring their individual stories together in a cohesive whole.

Annual events are also hosted on the grounds, including the Jingle Bell 5k Run and Walk, Lumina Daza, Camp Chris Stone, and various other activities.

Visiting the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History will undoubtedly take you back in time to the year 1900, and it will be an unexpectedly enjoyable adventure!

Visit the Surf City Surf Shop

Surf City Surf Shop is located at 530 Causeway Dr, Wrightsville Beach, just two minutes away from the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History.

The Surf City Surf Shop has been offering high-quality products to the people of Wrightsville Beach for more than 40 years.

It first opened its doors in 1978, focusing on exclusive product lines from RVCA, Quicksilver, Nike, Patagonia, Ripcurl, Hurley, Oneil, Billabong, and many more.

Because Wrightsville Beach offers a plethora of different leisure opportunities, stopping by the shop is a must!

Not only will you receive cautious advice from the specialists, but you will also benefit from their knowledge.

Aside from aquatic gear, the store also carries attractive men’s and women’s items that will enhance your overall appearance.

Wander Around the Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation

This recreational park, located on Bob Sawyer Dr in Wrightsville Beach, was established in July 1974.

Because of its success, the park was expanded in November 1975 and included basketball courts, tennis grounds, a playground, and other amenities!

Year after year, there was a significant increase in the number of facilities and improvements, as everything was upgraded and increased in size.

Why not invite your family and have a friendly competition together to see who is more skilled at recreational activities and sports?

Take a Sightseeing Tour With La Dee Dah Sunset Cruises

The magnificent cruise ship La Dee Dah was designed by Royal Lowell and Will Frost in 1906 and is still in operation today.

Today, it is owned by Patti and Axel, a wonderful Southern couple who lives in the area.

It is located at 120 Short St in Wrightsville Beach, and it is conveniently placed near the beach.

You can take part in the cruise with a maximum of 6 other persons per trip and pay $80 per person.

You will find it to be one of the most relaxing and enjoyable places to spend time with your family and friends.

In addition to its magnificent sightseeing, you can also indulge in its delectable beverages.

Please make a reservation on their website so that you and your friends can go on a cruise together to La Dee Dah Sunset Cruises and see the beautiful sunset together.

Write at The Mailbox at Wrightsville Beach

If there is a mailbox at Wrightsville Beach, this is it!

The Mailbox at Wrightsville Beach is located at 303 W Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach.

This iconic mailbox and the seat near to it were installed together.

This classic mailbox has been there for more than a decade, and it was originally equipped with a pen and paper so that you could leave a note inside.

Nyakenens cared for and protected the mailbox with love.

It eventually became a repository for love letters, notes of joy, despair, and even marriage proposals.

You have the opportunity to express your deepest feelings and free your mind from stress by leaving a letter in this mailbox if you happen to be visiting Wrightsville Beach.

Dine at Bluewater Grill

Bluewater Grill is the perfect place to go if you want steaks and seafood.

With fresh shellfish and different types of fish on the menu at 4 Marina St. in Wrightsville Beach, the restaurant will undoubtedly provide you with a unique dining experience!

Aside from the great cuisine available, the environment is also enjoyable, thanks to the venue’s live music and a spacious terrace.

If you wish to enjoy authentically fresh traditional American fare combined with various trendy specialties, you should sample their coastal cuisine.

Aside from its natural excellence in food service, you can also book a special occasion here.

The venue can be reserved for various events, including business meetings, weddings, family reunions, fundraisers, anniversaries, birthdays, and more.

Pay a Visit to Harbor Way Gardens

Located on US-74 in Wrightsville Beach, Harbor Way Gardens is one of the most beautiful public gardens in New Hanover County.

Because of the significant contribution and donations coming from the residents, the Harbor Way Gardens is the exclusive public garden in North Carolina to have Witherspoon Roses.

If you are traveling with children, this is an excellent trip for them to learn more about the beautiful plants and to find more about themselves.

Aside from that, they are free to roam throughout the region, as long as they remain within your sight and hearing range.

It is a wonderful spot to visit if you want to unwind and unwind a little more.

Chill Out at Wrightsville Performance Sailing

It was founded in the town of Wrightsville Beach in the year 2014, with the primary purpose of enhancing the athletic activities available in the area.

Dustin Frye is the company’s founder, and he has achieved success in his endeavors.

You can enjoy sailing with your friends or family members at 330 Causeway Dr in Wrightsville Beach, NC.

With a maximum of 4 people per trip, you may rest and enjoy a tranquil view of the water while relaxing.

Wrightsville Performance Sailing is committed to ensuring the safety of all of its clients while providing them with a fun and peaceful holiday on the water.

The captains of the sailboats are experts in their industry, and rest assured that you won’t have to worry about your safety or comfort while onboard.

Surf at SurfBerry Cafe

SurfBerry Cafe is the greatest spot to go if you enjoy surfing, whether a novice or an experienced surfer.

Their location is at 222 Causeway Dr in Wrightsville Beach.

They aim to improve the community’s health and the ocean by providing opportunities for people to enjoy.

You can participate in surfing activities and even enroll in a surfing course to surf like professionals!

They also provide beach rentals, so you won’t have to worry about lugging around your heavy bags.

Furthermore, because this is a cafe, you may fill your stomach with delectable dishes.

Many affordable organic beverages, such as smoothies, coffee, yogurt, and more, are also available.

Learn More at North Carolina Coastal Federation – Southeast Office & Stanback Coastal Education Center

North Carolina Coastal Federation is a non-profit organization located at 309 W Salisbury St, and it is one of the most popular places to visit if you want to learn more about the area.

They have entertaining and instructive programs for people of all ages.

A large part of the Student Education Program involves studying and learning about rivers, area places, laboratories, and a variety of other topics!

A coastal adventure series and touch tank Tuesdays are discussed in the Public Education Program.

Have Fun at Jimmy’s

In addition to Bluewater Grill, Jimmy’s is a great place to go for cocktails and have a good time with friends.

They are located at 5 N Lumina Ave in Wrightsville Beach and are considered the top sports bar and live music venue.

The local bar has been in operation for more than four decades, and the good times will continue to roll in year after year after year.

But from the name itself, the question remains: Who is Jimmy?

He has been a bartender in Wrightsville Beach for over 20 years and wanted to open a local bar because he enjoys music and beverages.

Jimmy decided to open the bar while still a student at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Jimmy’s narrative of accomplishment was very inspirational.

As a result, Jimmy’s bar has earned a positive reputation in the community.

Watching local musicians perform live is a great way to unwind while sipping on flavorful drinks and devouring delectable fare.

Buy Necessary Equipment at Aussie Island Surf Shop

Since 1990, Aussie Island Surf Shop has proudly served Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, and the surrounding neighborhood.

For over 30 years, it has provided top-notch surf, snow, beach, and skate products to the Wilmington region.

Their 3000 square foot shop space is in Wilmington off New Centre Road.

They provide a wide variety of items, including footwear, clothes for men and women, surfboards, skateboards, and snowboarding equipment.

Additionally, they have a wonderful range of high-end timepieces, glasses, and ski goggles throughout the winter.

Explore the Wonders of the Sea with Epic Excursions

Ian and Kristi Balding started Epic Excursions in 2017.

It is the go-to place for unique excursions in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

They aim to improve lives and deliver amazing service by introducing people to wonderful locations and extraordinary encounters.

They provide services such as exclusive boat charters, eco and dolphin boat excursions, island trips, paddle boarding, glamping, camping trips, kids and teenager camps, and island dining adventures.

For groups of any size, Epic Excursions excels in recreational group activities.

The rivers and islands around Wrightsville Beach are the perfect places for everything from intimate family outings to sizable business events.

Get Fresh Seafood from Motts Channel Seafood

On Wrightsville Beach, Gene Long founded Motts Channel Seafood in May 1990 and has been in business ever since.

Every day, local fishermen deliver their new and fresh catch to their docks, which may include a variety of fresh fish, oysters, clams, shrimp, mussels, and other seafood.

They work to be an all-inclusive shop for everything you need to perfect your dinner, including locally sourced fresh vegetables, a range of sauces, and even a selection of beverages.

Drop over their retail pier if you want to spend the day on a boat to get your groceries and seafood.

If you enjoy seafood, Motts Channel Seafood is the spot to see; come in and choose the best seafood available.

Learn Something New at WB Surf Camp

A family-run business, WB Surf Camp is based in California.

They set higher standards yearly for risk management, personnel development, programming, and pure ocean enjoyment.

They aim to instill respect and admiration for the ocean by fostering self-assurance, character growth, and stoke via safety, enjoyment, and education.

The creator of WB Surf Camp has been instructing surfers since 1995 and has created an incredible approach that will get you up and going in less time.

You may surf as many waves as your body can handle in their courses, and their professional instructors will educate and energize you in both mind and soul.

Beginner to expert surf lessons is available at WB Surf Camp for children, teenagers, adults, and families.

Their top-tier surf camps are the pinnacle of the surfing adventure, offering everything from adult vacation trips to kid’s summer camp surf lessons.

Feel Relaxed and Comfortable at Shell Island Resort

With more than 160 magnificent guest rooms, each with a view of the Atlantic Ocean, Shell Island is the leading luxury resort at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

All of its suites are oceanfront.

Shell Island Resort is a beautiful destination to visit and relax while taking in the sound of the beach since it has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi, seaside volleyball, and kilometers of white sandy beaches.

Each suite has a private balcony, a sizable living area with a sleeper couch, two flat-screen Televisions, and a kitchen with a microwave, skillet, refrigerator, and coffee maker.

A free Wi-Fi network provides users with high-speed internet access at the Resort.

Most visitors adore staying here after seeing all the amenities, including the casual beachside restaurant and bar with outdoor dining, the on-site fitness center, and the laundry services.

The lovely white sand beach on Shell Island makes it among the most spectacular wedding venues in all of North Carolina, and it’s also a great site to host conferences or business meetings.

Other Things to Do Nearby

After your exploration at Wrightsville Beach, why not visit other interesting destinations nearby?

Experience Scuba Diving at Wrightsville Beach Diving

Why not try another engaging activity in Wrightsville Beach Diving, which is only 11 minutes’ drive away from Wrightsville Beach and can be reached by car in 11 minutes?

This facility is a freediving and scuba diving charter enterprise located at 1418 Airlie Rd in Wilmington.

Here, you will be guided by professionals who have been diving and exploring the seas off the coast of Southern North Carolina for years.

You can enjoy a beautiful world beneath the waves without having to worry about anything!

Aside from ensuring that you’ll have a good time, their major concern is your safety.

Treat Yourself at Alice Lawson Salon and Spa at Magnolia Farms

If you’re looking for a tranquil atmosphere, luxurious treatments, and pleasant service, Alice Lawson Salon and Spa at Magnolia Farms is the ideal destination.

Alice Lawson owns it; she founded the site in 2012, shortly after graduating.

It is located at 102 Forest Ln, Wilmington, and offers an exceptional spa experience.

After a long holiday, you deserve a great massage that will alleviate your stress and body aches.

Apart from spa services, they also provide manicure, skin, and hair care!

Ride a Bike at River to the Sea Bike Route

An 11-mile bicycle ride may be enjoyed from the starting point in Wilmington, North Carolina (US 28402)!

Here, you can freely participate and have an adventure throughout the town!

You will pass by the Historic Beach Car Line, Old Wilmington, Market Street, Forest Hills, and more!

The event takes place on the first Saturday of May every year, and everyone is welcome to attend!

Taking part in this journey will provide you with an exciting and interesting adventure in North Carolina.

Final Thoughts

Wrightsville Beach is, without a question, a wonderful spot to visit.

In addition to having a fantastic beach, the town itself has plenty to offer with its recreational activities, parks, museums, stores, educational sites, breathtaking vistas, and much more!

Your trip to Wrightsville Beach will undoubtedly be unforgettable, and it is a guarantee that it will be one of the most enjoyable vacations you will ever experience!

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