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Wrightsville Beach's most popular attractions are the sandy coastlines and sparkling waves. Beachcombing, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and swimming are perfect ways to spend your days on a 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, this is one of the oldest remaining cottages on the beach. It is 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 along 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 a few tennis courts, a couple basketball courts, a soccer field, a baseball diamond, a covered picnic area, and a playground 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 hurricane force winds and the view of the ocean is extraordinary. If you're not up for fishing, be sure to speak with the locals about today's bite.
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 additional highlights.
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 exhibits an eclectic array of beach history.
Walk through the Myers cottage and step into 1930's beach living. The interior harkens to a bygone era;...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 of all ages. It encompasses a portion of the perimeter of Wrightsville Beach Park along Causeway Drive, including Lumina Avenue and Salisbury Street. Parking is available at the park. If you bring your dog along there's a...more about The Loop at Wrightsville Beach
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In the spring and summer, a cruise aboard a 26-foot motorized catamaran affords breathtaking views of Masonboro Island and Wrightsville Beach. Daily, guided shelling and eco-tours to Masonboro Island make for a special experience. Dolphin sunset cruises in the back creeks, bird watching on protected islands, or exploring coastal islands on...more about Wrightsville Scenic Tours and Taxi
Enjoy the pleasures nature has to offer — smell the tulips, admire the azaleas, gaze at the camellias and stand in the shade of the 468-year-old Airlie Oak while visiting this quintessential Southern garden. Stroll curving paths and walkways in this lush natural setting while admiring the majesty of coastal North Carolina...more about Airlie Gardens
This welcoming and hospitable family entertainment center features the only true waterpark in eastern North Carolina, plus dry activities and arcade games galore for non-stop entertainment!
The waterpark boasts an array of superb slides including the Sidewinder, the relaxing Volcano Express, the Rapid Racer, and the Super Bowl. At the center of Jungle Rapids Waterpark...more about Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Masonboro Island is a peaceful place where generations of locals have fished, hunted, sunbathed, surfed, camped, and peacefully witnessed nature. It is no small wonder that Masonboro Island is held in high regard by many hearts. Evidence suggests that the first stretch of continental American coastline, as described by the European...more about Masonboro Island
