Discover five fun ways to enjoy Wrightsville Beach after dark, from sunset dinners and lively beach bars to family concerts and starlit strolls along the coast.
When the sun sinks into the horizon, Wrightsville Beach shifts gears. The day's surfers and sunbathers trade board shorts for breezy dresses, and the island's easygoing daytime energy turns effortlessly into coastal nightlife.
From candlelit dinners by the water to lively "college-y" dives and laid-back family events, this little slice of the North Carolina coast has a way of keeping the good times rolling, just with a saltier breeze and a few more stars overhead.
At Carolina Beach Realty, we specialize in vacation rentals in the heart of Pleasure Island. Family-owned and locally operated since 1963, we've spent over 50 years helping guests discover the best of North Carolina's coast. Our blog is filled with insider tips on where to eat, must-visit spots, and year-round events, because we love sharing the hidden gems that make Carolina and Kure Beach so special!
Ready for some nightlife action? Here are five great ways to make your Wrightsville Beach nights shine.
TL;DR: Five Ways to Enjoy Wrightsville Beach After Dark
- Watch the sky melt into pink and gold as you go out for a nice dinner.
- Relive your student days (minus the homework) as you join the college crowd at "The Beach Bars."
- Trade flip-flops for something a little more refined as you sip something sophisticated at the "grown-up" spots.
- Grab the kids, a blanket, and some tunes as you enjoy a family-friendly evening.
- End your night under the stars or with dessert in hand as you try something unexpected.
1. Go Out for a Nice Dinner
Nothing says "vacation mode" quite like seafood and sunset views. Wrightsville Beach serves up both in style, with restaurants that balance casual coastal comfort with just the right touch of polish.
- Bluewater Waterfront Grill – One of the island's most iconic spots, with an expansive deck overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Go for shrimp and grits, stay for the live tunes during the Rock the Dock summer concert series.
- The Bridge Tender – A classic just over the bridge, known for its refined seafood dishes, cocktails, and unbeatable marina views.
- Oceanic Restaurant – Right on Crystal Pier, this is where locals go for oceanfront dining, romantic evenings, and live music during the Oceanic Summer Music Series.
- Solstice Kitchen + Cocktails – Inside the Lumina resort, this oceanfront restaurant pairs elegant plates with an impressive cocktail list.
Why You'll Love It
- Waterfront tables and golden-hour views
- Fresh seafood and local ingredients
- Seasonal live music and breezy ambiance
- Romantic, grown-up coastal atmosphere
2. Join the College Crowd at "The Beach Bars"
If you hear someone say they're heading to "The Beach Bars," they're talking about the lively little cluster near the entrance to the island — a stretch where flip-flops, laughter, and music mix easily.
- Jimmy's at Wrightsville Beach – A no-frills favorite known for slushies, live bands, and good vibes that carry long past sunset.
- Tower 7 Baja Mex – Famous for fish tacos, margaritas, and the surf-casual crowd that fills its deck.
- King Neptune Restaurant & Pirate Lounge – Reimagined and full of coastal charm, with a rum bar and late-night cocktails.
- Loggerheads WB – A quintessential dive with friendly bartenders and a rooftop view of the action.
Yes, it can get a bit college-y — and that's half the fun. It's loud, easygoing, and full of the spontaneous, salt-sprayed spirit that defines Wrightsville nights.
Why You'll Love It
- Bar-hop between several venues in one block
- Great for casual drinks and live tunes
- Beach-town energy at its peak
- No dress code, no pretense — just fun
3. Sip Something Sophisticated at the "Grown-Up" Spots
Prefer something with a little more polish? Wrightsville Beach has plenty of elevated options for those who want a cocktail bar with character, not chaos.
- Wrightsville Beach Brewery – A local institution serving craft beers and coastal bites, with live music several nights a week in its outdoor beer garden.
- EAST Bar at Trailborn Surf & Sound – Sip cocktails beside a glowing aquarium, surrounded by tropical gardens and seaside charm.
- Poe's Tavern – Combines creative burgers, literary décor, and an impressive beer selection in a relaxed, grown-up setting.
- Flying Machine Oyster Bar – Stylish and modern, with handcrafted cocktails and fresh oysters just off the island.
Why You'll Love It
- Creative cocktails and local craft brews
- Low-key but lively settings
- Perfect for date nights or smaller groups
- Friendly staff and relaxed sophistication
4. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Evening
Not every night has to end at a bar. Wrightsville Beach has a warm, community feel that makes it easy to enjoy the evening outdoors — music, picnics, and kids in tow.
- Airlie Gardens Summer Concert Series – On select Fridays from June through September, bring your blanket and listen to local bands surrounded by blooming gardens.
- WECT Sounds of Summer at Wrightsville Beach Park – Free Thursday evening concerts that draw locals and visitors alike for family fun under the stars.
- Dockside & Bluewater – Both spots welcome kids, serve great seafood, and offer relaxed outdoor dining with live music.
Why You'll Love It
- Easygoing events for all ages
- Local musicians and seasonal performances
- Wide-open spaces for dancing or picnicking
- Perfect for summer evenings by the water
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5. Try Something Unexpected
When you're ready for something different, Wrightsville Beach and nearby Wilmington offer creative ways to spend a night out that don't involve bar stools or beach decks.
- Trolley Pub Wilmington – Gather a group for a pedal-powered party through town (just remember, open containers aren't allowed on Wrightsville Beach itself).
- Stroll the Boardwalk – A short drive to Carolina Beach brings you to arcades, live music, and nostalgic seaside energy.
- Late-Night Dessert Runs – Grab ice cream near Johnnie Mercers Pier or a slice of key lime pie at nearby Dockside before heading back to your rental.
- Stargazing on the Beach – For the quiet crowd, pack a blanket and enjoy the night sky — you'll often catch a glimpse of passing boats and constellations reflecting off the waves.
Why You'll Love It
- Unique, offbeat ways to enjoy the evening
- Great for couples or groups
- Family-friendly alternatives to nightlife
- A taste of coastal life after dark
FAQs About Wrightsville Beach Nightlife
What are the best bars in Wrightsville Beach, NC, for adults?
If you're after grown-up conversation and a good pour, you'll find plenty to love at Wrightsville Beach Brewery, Poe's Tavern, EAST Bar, and Flying Machine Oyster Bar. These spots keep things relaxed yet polished, offering creative cocktails, local craft brews, and cozy atmospheres that make them some of the best bars in Wrightsville Beach, NC, for adults.
Where can I find the best bars in Wrightsville Beach, NC, on the water?
For a drink with a view, you can't beat Bluewater Waterfront Grill, The Bridge Tender, or Dockside Restaurant & Bar. Each sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway, serving sunset views with every sip — the best bars in Wrightsville Beach, NC, on the water for anyone chasing that golden-hour glow.
Where can I catch live music in Wrightsville Beach tonight?
You'll find Wrightsville Beach live music almost every night at local favorites like The Palm Room, Jimmy's at Wrightsville Beach, and Bluewater Waterfront Grill during the seasonal Rock the Dock series. For a more laid-back scene, check out Wrightsville Beach Brewery's upcoming events — their outdoor beer garden often hosts local bands several nights a week.
What should I try from the Wrightsville Beach Brewery menu?
The Wrightsville Beach Brewery menu mixes coastal pub fare with craft brews made on-site. Locals swear by the shrimp tacos, fish sandwiches, and the brewery's signature beers — from the smooth Oysterman Stout to the citrusy Waterway IPA. Pair your pint with live music for the full coastal experience.
Make the Most of Your Trip to the North Carolina Coast
At Carolina Beach Realty, we offer a curated selection of vacation rentals across North Carolina's coast — from classic beach cottages to spacious oceanfront homes. With over 50 years of local experience, we take pride in delivering personal service, exceptional comfort, and that unmistakable Carolina hospitality.
