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The most popular attractions at Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island, NC, by far are its white sand and sparkling water. Beachcombing, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and swimming are perfect ways to spend your days on this relaxing getaway.
There are, of course, some things that you absolutely must see and do while in the area. Take a stroll down memory lane and learn about the island's fascinating past at the Wrightsville Beach Museum, located in Myers Cottage on West Salisbury Street, one of the oldest cottages on the beach. It's interesting stuff, the story of this community, which has been a resort area for more than a century. While you're visiting the museum, leave your car in the parking lot and get moving on The Loop, the much-loved 2.45-mile circuit sidewalk that runs along the perimeter of Wrightsville Beach Park, up Causeway Drive, down Lumina Ave. and Salisbury Street. It's a great way to see the area and be good to your body. The Wrightsville Beach Park is a great stop too, with tennis courts, a basketball court, soccer field, and a playgound for the little ones.
Be sure to take a walk out on Johnnie Mercer's Pier and cast a line if you're inclined. This amazing pier is built to survive huricane force winds and the view of the ocean is extraordinary. If you're not up for fishing, be sure to watch the locals and see what they're catching.
Just off Wrightsville Beach is Masonboro Island, a secluded haven for fishing, sunbathing, camping, and exploring nature. You can get there by boat, kayak, or on a guided tour with an area company like Wrightsville Scenic Tours and Taxi.
Across the bridge and down Airlie Road, you'll find Airlie Gardens, a glorious garden that was designed in the early 1900s to celebrate plants for all four seasons. Stroll the curving paths, gaze at the over 400-year-old Airlie Oak, and picnic on the grounds. There's no better way to celebrate the seasons in the area.
Events on the island are plenty — from surfing contests, to the Wrightsville Beach Marathon, to a stellar summer concert series at the Wrightsville Beach Park.
There's plenty more to do in the area. Check out our Wilmington Attractions page for even more things to do while you're in the area.
Wrightsville Beach Museum of History303 W. Salisbury St.The Wrightsville Beach Museum is housed in the circa 1909 Myers cottage, one of the oldest cottages on the beach. Opened in May 1995, the museum presents beach history and lifestyles.
Walk though the Myers Cottage and feel what it was like to be at the beach in 1930. There is a...more about Wrightsville Beach Museum of History
Standing 25 feet above sea level, this magnificent concrete structure represents the latest in storm-resistant technology. It is the first pier in North Carolina able to sustain 200 mph winds, and its windows are built to withstand storm gales up to 150 mph. The light poles consist of spun concrete, and...more about Johnnie Mercer's Pier
The John Nesbitt Loop is scenic 2.45-mile circuit sidewalk course that is very popular among locals. It encompasses a portion of the perimeter of Wrightsville Beach Park along Causeway Drive, plus Lumina Avenue and Salisbury Street. If you bring your dog along there's a free Dog Bar (serving water) beside Bryant Real Estate...more about The Loop at Wrightsville Beach
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