The Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is home to a picturesque 4-mile island, the smaller Harbor Island, and an inland commercial area. In addition to the main attraction (crystal blue ocean water and sandy beaches), Wrightsville Beach has a growing culinary scene, surfer-friendly coffee shops, and great fine-dining. Find upscale and boutique businesses like yoga studios and designer shops.
Neighborhoods We Love
Check out Harbor Island, tucked away from the island’s main drag. This little “island on an island” has classic southern and coastal living-style homes with old oak trees, and boats in your backyard.
Eat & drink
Wrightsville Beach holds some of the Wilmington area’s best cuisine, especially when it comes to fine dining. For a luxurious night out try out classic steakhouse Port City Chophouse or one of the long-esteemed restaurants, Jerry’s Food Wine & Spirits. Plenty of celebrities have stopped into Port Land Grille. A high-end Sunday brunch at The Blockade Runner is the ultimate Wrightsville Beach treat.
For one of the most popular restaurants, book reservations for Ceviche’s — Panamanian food with its own Wrightsville Beach flair. Grabbing a taco at Tower 7 is a perfect way to end a long day out on the beach.
If it’s a view you’re looking for try Dockside or The Oceanic.
For crafted cocktails, we love drinks at Grand Cru or 1900 Bar and Lounge. Find plenty of craft beers at the THREE Wrightsville Beach breweries — Wrightsville Beach Brewery, Waterman’s Brewing and Mad Mole Brewery. Check out our local brewery guide here.
Where to Have Fun
Grab the dog and head out for a walk around the Wrightsville Loop. This 2.5-mile loop goes from a park, through old oak trees, over the Intracoastal, and ends at the beach bars.
You’ll want to go out for a sailing lesson at The Blockade Runner Sailing School before catching live music at The Palm Room.
On a pretty day, don’t miss Airlie Gardens. This 67-acre public garden has pathways that wind from waterside to forest through artistic sculptures and a famous bottle chapel.
When leaving Airlie Gardens, be sure to drive down Airlie Road. It was named one of the most scenic roads in North Carolina (you may recognize it from some movies.)
Go and Treat Yourself
Check out Lithe Core Pilates or spend a day at the spa at Coastal Massage and Spa or Prana Salt Cave. Get a nice styling at Set Blowout Bar and a manicure at LV Nails. If you want to treat your wardrobe, shop at Lumina Commons, where you’ll find high-end boutiques like Beanie + Cecil, Monkee’s of Wilmington and Gentleman’s Corner.
