So, y’all know that I was just in Wilmington, NC, but did you know there are some amazing beaches located just 15-20 minutes from Wilmington? One of those beaches is Wrightsville Beach and to be honest, I was completely blown away by it. I cannot believe I didn’t know about this little hidden gem! Now, maybe it’s not so “hidden” to some, but being someone who never lived in a state super close to North Carolina, it’s hidden to me. Not only are the white sandy beaches beautiful, but there are also some awesome restaurants, shops, spas, and activities in this little town! I kept saying that if I had a million dollars, I would totally invest in a beach house here… I just need to get my hands on a million dollars. Ha.
I think Wrightsville Beach would be a perfect destination for a girl’s trip or a co-ed group trip! We were told by some locals that if you are planning on spending a weekend in Wrightsville Beach during the summer that you should either stay on or near the beach (within walking distance) and if you are staying in Wilmington, like we were, to make sure you get over the bridge to Wrightsville Beach early in the morning before the beach traffic backs up and parking becomes hard to find. Personally, if I went for a beach weekend, I would try to get a room at the Blockade Runner Resort and rent bikes to get around the town.
I have so many more recommendations, so I’ve listed all my favorites below!
Where to Stay in Wrightsville Beach NC:
Blockade Runner Resort – We stopped here to check it out, since we stayed in Wilmington, and it seemed like the perfect resort to stay during a beach weekend. Located right on the beach, it has an awesome pool and pool bar, and the décor was adorable. Below are some pictures from the property.
Where to Eat and Drink in Wrightsville Beach NC:
Tower 7 – Every local in town recommended this spot and I can see why—dank (do people still use that term?) Mexican food and margaritas. I could’ve eaten here every meal for a week straight. Ha.
Bluewater Waterfront Grill – We had appetizers and drinks here one night and sat right on the harbor with gorgeous views of the boats coming in and out. The food was average, but the drinks and views were incredible. Definitely worth a visit at sunset.
Oceanic – Another place you should absolutely visit if you’re looking for waterfront dining. We had apps and drinks here as well and they were delicious. The interior design was brand new, as we heard it was newly renovated, and it was beautiful! This restaurant/bar is located on the beach side, so you won’t have sunset views like Bluewater Waterfront Grill, but it is a fabulous lunch spot.
Kohl’s Frozen Custard – If you like soft serve ice cream (and who doesn’t?) you will love this frozen custard. Especially on a hot summer day in North Carolina… but make sure to eat it fast. I tried to get one photo and it was already melting down my hands. Regardless, it was still the perfect end to our beach day.
The Workshop – A cute coffee shop that is owned by local scuba divers. Not only do they sell yummy coffee, but they also sell shark tooth jewelry that they handmake from the shark teeth they gather while diving!
The Best Things to Do in Wrightsville Beach NC:
Wrightsville SUP Paddleboarding – We spent one morning paddleboarding through the sound and we loved it. You’re able to take the paddleboards out on your own or go out with an instructor. They also have the cutest, most well-trained shop dog that I was obsessed with. He’ll jump right into the water and get on your paddleboard too! The instructor informed us about a spot in the sound called the Diminishing Republic. Apparently, this is the area where everyone meets up on weekends and in the summer to party. We were there on a Monday morning, so didn’t see much action, but if you’re there on a weekend, you’ll have to check it out!
Rent bikes – We also rented bikes from the Wrightsville SUP shop and this was hands down our best decision of the day. It was so nice to just hop on and hop off our bikes to explore the island. Plus, we got our exercise in for the day! Wrightsville Beach Loop – We didn’t have our running shoes with us, but the locals informed us that this 2.45-mile-long fitness trail that circles the island is the best place for runners!
The Loop – We didn’t have our running shoes with us, but the locals informed us that this 2.45-mile-long fitness trail circles the island and is the best place for runners.
Alice Lawson Salon and Spa – Honestly, I still think about the afternoon we had here. After a full day of biking, paddleboarding and swimming in the sun, we had the nicest, most relaxing afternoon here. I got a facial and a spray tan, while my boyfriend got a massage. The girls in the salon were all so cute and so friendly and made us feel right at home. This is a full-service salon and spa that specializes in massages, facials, makeup, spray tans, nails and waxing.
Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours – Captain Joe took us on a private boat tour of the Intracoastal Waterway. This 27-foot motorized catamaran hosts all different types of tours. Take a public sunset or nature tour, or book a private customized charter for fishing trips, bachelorette parties, you name it! Captain Joe showed us an 8-mile secluded beach, where he normally drops off his bachelor/bachelorette parties for the day and that is something I definitely want to do next time I’m in town! Check out their website to see all of their tour options.
Shop at Hallelu – There are tons of stores to shop around in Wrightsville Beach, but my absolute favorite was this little boutique. If y’all follow me on Instagram and like my style, then I promise that you’re going to want to buy every single item in this store.
Hope y’all enjoy it as much as we did!
Xoxo!
