Wrightsville Beach NC is one of the best beach destinations in the state. It sits just 15 minutes from downtown Wilmington which makes it easy to combine a beach trip with a city trip. The surf is good, the restaurants are excellent, and the sunrise over the ocean is one of the prettiest you will see anywhere on the East Coast.

Why Wrightsville Beach?

Wrightsville has a reputation as the nicest beach near a major NC city. The sand is wide, the water is clean, and the beach town has real character. It is not as built up as Myrtle Beach or Virginia Beach. It feels like an actual community where people live, surf, and eat great food.

The Beach

The beach runs about 4 miles along a barrier island. The northern end near the loop road has good surf. The southern end near the inlet is calmer and great for swimming. There is free public beach access at multiple points. Parking can be a challenge in summer so arrive early or use the public lot near Crystal Pier.

Surfing at Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach has been a surf town for decades. The waves here are consistent and good for beginners and intermediates. Crystal Pier in the middle of town is one of the most popular surf spots. Sweetwater Surf Shop and Wrightsville Beach Supply Co both offer lessons and board rentals.

Best Restaurants at Wrightsville Beach

Oceanic Restaurant

The only restaurant in Wrightsville Beach built directly over the ocean, it sits on Crystal Pier at 703 S Lumina Ave and you can look straight down to the waves below. Order the fresh catch and go at sunset. One of the best settings of any restaurant on the NC coast.

Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill

A beach classic at 4 N Lumina Ave. Baja style fish tacos, house made chips and salsa, and cold margaritas steps from the sand. Often a line at peak hours but it moves fast and is always worth it.

King Neptune Restaurant

The oldest continuously operating restaurant in New Hanover County, open since 1947 at 11 N Lumina Ave. Recently revitalized with a seed oil free kitchen and locally sourced coastal seafood. A Wrightsville Beach institution with a great fresh catch menu.

South Beach Grill

A neighborhood staple since 1997 at 100 S Lumina Ave. Coastal Southern seafood with views over Banks Channel. The crab cakes are a standout and the daily specials are worth asking about when you sit down.

Bluewater Waterfront Grill

On the Intracoastal Waterway at 4 Marina St with panoramic marina views and live music on the patio. Fresh coastal cuisine in a relaxed waterfront setting, one of the best spots for a long lunch watching the boats go by.

Shark Bar and Kitchen

Near Johnny Mercer Pier at 13 E Salisbury St, serving locally and sustainably sourced seafood with a creative coastal menu. Bright, airy atmosphere and a great option if you want something a step up from the typical beach bar.

La Duna Paradiso

Coastal Italian dining at the Trailborn Surf & Sound resort at 275 Waynick Blvd. Celebrating NC local seafood with an Old World wine list and a standout Sunday Jazz Brunch. The best upscale dinner option right on the island.

Solstice Kitchen + Cocktails

Inside the Holiday Inn Resort at 1706 N Lumina Ave, serving coastal American cuisine from breakfast through dinner with direct oceanfront access. A solid all day option with great views, especially for breakfast before hitting the beach.

Flying Machine Oyster Bar

On Harbor Island at 530 Causeway Dr, a showcase for local NC mariculture oysters served in creative preparations alongside Flying Machine craft beer. If you love oysters, this is a must stop on the way onto or off the island.

Poe's Tavern

An Edgar Allan Poe themed bar and burger spot on Harbor Island at 212 Causeway Dr. Creative, generously loaded burgers and a lively atmosphere. A great casual stop before or after a beach day, the theming is fun and the burgers are legitimately excellent.

Where To Stay

There are several hotels, inns, and vacation rentals right on the island. The Beach House (Airbnb options) and Blockade Runner Beach Resort are popular picks. Staying on the island gives you easy beach access morning and night.

Combining Wrightsville with Wilmington

The big advantage of Wrightsville Beach is how close it is to downtown Wilmington. You can easily spend mornings at the beach and evenings in the city for dinner and entertainment. Wilmington has great restaurants along the river walk, a historic downtown, and a film and arts scene. Read more about the NC coast on our Coast page.

Tips For Your Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wrightsville Beach good for families?
Yes. The beaches are clean, the water is calm near the southern end, and there are plenty of family friendly restaurants nearby.

How far is Wrightsville Beach from Wilmington?
About 15 minutes east of downtown Wilmington via US 74/76.

Is parking free at Wrightsville Beach?
There is limited free public parking. Some lots charge by the hour in peak season. Arriving early is the best strategy.

Wrightsville Beach is the kind of place you will want to come back to. Great waves, great food, and just enough going on to keep things interesting.