Discover the best things to do in Wrightsville Beach, NC, from paddleboarding, surfing, and sunset cruises to oceanfront dining and local shops.
Wrightsville Beach isn't your typical coastal escape; it's where sparkling blue water meets laid-back Southern charm.
Just across the bridge from Wilmington and a stone's throw from Carolina Beach, this beach town is small but full of character, offering endless ways to play, unwind, and connect with nature. From chasing the early-morning surf to sipping cocktails at sunset and discovering tucked-away cafés, Wrightsville Beach knows how to slow things down in style.
Trust me: this is the kind of place where days melt into each other — one paddleboard session, one seafood dinner, and one perfect sunset at a time.
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!
Today, we will dive into the best things to do, see, and taste in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.
TLDR: Best Things to Do in Wrightsville Beach
- Take in ocean and sound views on a scenic 2.5-mile walk around The Loop.
- Find untouched dunes and peaceful seclusion on Masonboro Island.
- Fish, sip, or watch the sunrise from the iconic Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier.
- Wander through blooming gardens and centuries-old oaks at Airlie Gardens.
- Step into the town's coastal heritage at the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History.
- Relax, play, or browse local goods at Wrightsville Beach Park.
- Paddle calm waters or catch the next wave while Paddleboarding, Kayaking & Surfing.
- Watch dolphins dance and sunsets glow on a Sunset Harbor Cruise.
- Savor seafood and ocean views right beside Crystal Pier at Oceanic Restaurant.
- Enjoy fresh tacos, salsas, and margaritas with a surf-town vibe at Tower 7 Baja Grill.
- Dine on fine seafood and wine by the water's edge at The Bridgetender.
- Unwind with drinks and dockside views at Dockside Restaurant & Bar.
- Pick up beachwear, boards, and local favorites when you Shop Local.
1. The Loop
Walk, Run, or Ride with a View
Encircling the heart of Wrightsville Beach, The Loop is a scenic 2.5-mile route perfect for morning jogs or breezy afternoon strolls. Locals swear by it — the mix of coastal homes, marinas, and sound views make every lap feel fresh. It's social, pet-friendly, and quintessentially Wrightsville.
What Makes It Special
- 2.5-mile pedestrian and biking loop
- Ocean, sound, and marina views
- Pet-friendly and stroller-friendly
- Local favorite for daily exercise
2. Masonboro Island
Untouched Coastal Beauty
Reachable only by boat, Masonboro Island Reserve is a pristine stretch of undeveloped coastline where nature takes center stage. Expect soft dunes, quiet lagoons, and surf breaks all to yourself. Bring a picnic, paddleboard, or camera — it's the kind of wild that feels restorative.
What Makes It Special
- Boat-only access for a true island escape
- Surfing, shelling, and nature walks
- Excellent birdwatching and photography
- Peaceful and uncrowded
3. Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier
Iconic Views and Easy Fishing
Standing tall at 1,200 feet, Johnnie Mercers Pier is both a favorite fishing spot and a front-row seat to the Atlantic. Cast a line, grab a drink from the pier café, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the view never disappoints.
What Makes It Special
- 1,200-foot concrete pier over the ocean
- Great for fishing or casual walks
- Small café with snacks and drinks
- Excellent sunrise and sunset photo spot
4. Airlie Gardens
A Classic Southern Garden Escape
Just over the bridge from the beach, Airlie Gardens spans 67 acres of live oaks, sculpture trails, and seasonal blooms. Wander among butterflies and azaleas or visit during the beloved Enchanted Airlie holiday lights. It's a peaceful detour that shows another side of the coast.
What Makes It Special
- 67-acre historic garden and wildlife haven
- Live oaks, sculptures, and seasonal flowers
- Home to the 400-year-old Airlie Oak
- Hosts concerts and annual light festivals
5. WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM OF HISTORY
Step into Local Stories
Inside a restored 1900s cottage, the Wrightsville Beach Museum captures the spirit of this seaside town. Exhibits feature vintage surfboards, photos, and nods to coastal traditions — including the legendary Wrightsville Beach Mailbox, where visitors leave notes in the sand.
What Makes It Special
- Charming local history museum
- Surf culture and community exhibits
- Replica of the Wrightsville Beach Mailbox
- Quick, educational stop for all ages
6. Wrightsville Beach Park
Green Space by the Sea
This vibrant park offers open space to play, picnic, or just soak up sunshine between beach days. There's a playground, sports courts, and even a weekly farmers' market in summer filled with local produce and handmade goods.
What Makes It Special
- Central park with courts and playgrounds
- Weekly Monday farmers' market (May–fall)
- Open fields and walking paths
- Family-friendly events year-round
7. Paddleboarding, Kayaking & Surfing
Life Happens on the Water
The water around Wrightsville Beach is as clear as it gets on the North Carolina coast — perfect for paddling, kayaking, or surfing. Calm soundside waters are great for beginners, while the ocean side draws experienced surfers chasing the next set. Outfitters like Wrightsville SUP and Cape Fear Paddleboarding can get you set up for any adventure.
What Makes It Special
- Excellent paddleboarding and kayaking conditions
- Surf lessons for all levels
- Rentals available island-wide
- Warm, crystal-clear water year-round
8. Sunset Harbor Cruise
End the Day in Golden Light
Board the Carolina Runner for a 90-minute cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway, where dolphins play and the sky turns amber. With local guides sharing stories along the way, this is one of the most relaxing and photogenic things to do on the island.
What Makes It Special
- Guided 1.5-hour sunset cruise
- Incredible photo opportunities
- Dolphin sightings and calm waters
- Perfect evening activity for couples
9. OCEANIC RESTAURANT
Dine by the Waves
Set right beside Crystal Pier, Oceanic is Wrightsville's only true oceanfront restaurant — and a local institution. Grab a cocktail, order the Carolina crab dip, and watch waves roll under the pier. It's the ideal blend of flavor and atmosphere.
What Makes It Special
- Oceanfront dining with panoramic views
- Fresh seafood and coastal classics
- Great cocktail list
- Famous filming spot from The Summer I Turned Pretty
10. TOWER 7 BAJA GRILL
A Taste of Baja on the Carolina Coast
Tower 7 brings West Coast surf vibes eastward, with fresh tacos, salsas, and margaritas in a colorful, laid-back space. It's the go-to stop for casual eats after a beach day — and the chips disappear faster than you'd expect.
What Makes It Special
- Baja-style cuisine and margaritas
- Fresh, local ingredients
- Friendly staff and lively vibe
- Great for lunch or early dinner
11. THE BRIDGETENDER
Elevated Dining on the Intracoastal
For sunset dinners with a refined touch, The Bridgetender serves seafood and steaks right by the waterway. The setting is elegant yet unpretentious — think white wine, soft light, and boats drifting past as you eat.
What Makes It Special
- Upscale waterfront dining
- Steak, seafood, and fine desserts
- Relaxed, scenic ambiance
- Excellent wine and cocktail menu
12. DOCKSIDE RESTAURANT & BAR
Wrightsville's Classic Gathering Spot
Dockside is where locals and visitors mingle over cold drinks and seafood platters as boats pull up to the dock. The atmosphere is easygoing and social — the kind of place where happy hour turns into dinner.
What Makes It Special
- Iconic waterfront hangout
- Crab dip and oysters are must-tries
- Upper-deck sunset views
- Casual, lively atmosphere
13. Shop Local
Bring Home a Piece of the Island
No trip is complete without exploring Wrightsville's small but character-filled shops. Redix is a local legend for beachwear and fishing gear, South End Surf Shop has everything for board lovers, and Robert's Grocery — the island's oldest store — is famous for its homemade chicken salad.
What Makes It Special
- Redix: local outfitter since 1969
- South End Surf Shop: surfboards, wetsuits, and apparel
- Robert's Grocery: Wrightsville's oldest shop
- Great for gifts, gear, and coastal keepsakes
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.
