Welcome to Wrightsville Beach
What to Love
- Miles of unspoiled beach to enjoy
- Home to the Carolina Yacht Club
- Surrounded by ample natural splendor, including marine reserves
People & Lifestyle
A mere 20 minutes from the thrum of downtown Wilmington, residents of Wrightsville Beach can take advantage of more city-centered amenities while still reveling in the salty air and island beauty of their own homes. The town’s small population keeps it feeling incredibly close-knit, and families fall in love with the combination of great schools and tons of outdoor recreation.
Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment
As one might anticipate from a town so thoroughly saturated in the beach lifestyle, a majority of the shops on the island itself and along its mainland bridges are dedicated to surfing gear and beachwear. Locally owned stores such as Sweetwater Surf Shop ensure that ocean lovers and enthusiasts of the sport can dive headfirst into their passion, fully equipped to tackle any adventure.
Seafood, always fresh from the local coast, is another of Wrightsville Beach’s specialties, and at locations such as Bluewater Grill, the dedication to culinary excellence is undeniable. Live performances accompany a menu of classic American dishes and North Carolina’s finest catches here, and diners flock to the grill daily for sumptuous fare and waterfront views.
Tower 7 is the place to be for an enchanting nightlife scene, and the combination of Baja-inspired tacos and slurpable margaritas makes every night feel like a celebration. If you’re after something a little more upscale, Oceanic Restaurant on the rebuilt historic Crystal Pier has exactly the ambiance you’re searching for, while those in the mood for pub cuisine won’t want to miss out on the gourmet burgers at Poe’s Tavern.
Things to Do
Living in such a blissful, relaxed little town can make every day seem like a celebration, and residents of Wrightsville Beach certainly know how to keep the entertainment coming. From annual and seasonal festivals to quiet moments on the dock that are equally worthy of notice, those in Wrightsville Beach have a world of opportunities at their fingertips.
The visually distinctive concrete bend of Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier is the perfect setting for a photo, as well as a day of fishing. Exceptional saltwater catches are the norm here, and on any given day, you’ll find a slew of happy anglers perched on benches. Circle through the heart of town by walking the 2.5-mile stretch known as The Loop, which is populated with cyclists, skaters, pedestrians, and dog-walkers. The Wrightsville Beach Park is also replete with outdoor fun, including surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and more.
The Wrightsville Beach Park additionally plays host to two of the Wilmington area’s biggest events, one of which is the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla. Dock-decorating contests, sublime lighted boats dressed up in their holiday best, and a resplendent firework show all create a magical, unforgettable event. Each Thanksgiving, the Wrightsville Beach Holiday Turkey Trot encourages a spirit of philanthropy through its fundraising 5K, during which participants don adorable self-made turkey costumes.
Schools
Wrightsville Beach is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Wrightsville Beach Elementary, K-5, highly rated public elementary school
- Isaac Bear Early College High School, 9-12, highly rated public high school