About
Just a short drive from the popular Wilmington Riverwalk is Wrightsville Beach. This barrier island features pristine beaches, top-notch restaurants, and a lively small-town energy.
In the decades before the turn of the 20th century, Wrightsville Beach saw little activity aside from fishing, as it was only reachable by boat. That changed in 1888, when a railroad trestle connected the island to the mainland, followed closely by a trolley line. These innovations enabled Wilmington residents to sojourn to the area for a seaside retreat.
With the flood of vacationers, hotels and entertainment spots took shape. The most famous was the Lumina Pavilion, which opened in 1905. It was known as "The Pleasure Palace of the South" for its dance floor, bowling lanes, and big movie screen. It was also dubbed "The Palace of Light" because it glowed so brightly at night that sailors navigated their ships by it!
Sadly, it was demolished in 1973 and replaced by condominiums. However, the spirit of this iconic venue lives on at the Lumina hotel, known for its Solstice Kitchen & Cocktails, which offers oceanside dining.
The beach is close enough to Wilmington that you can plan a day around water activities, along with sightseeing. For instance, after a morning on the beach, head inland to explore the shops and eateries along the Wilmington Riverwalk. Also worth checking out is the Airlie Gardens. You can explore lush blooms, enjoy birdwatching, and take part in seasonal events, like bat-watching at night!
Today, Wrightsville Beach blends natural beauty with a neighborly charm. The result is an easygoing beach town welcoming visitors seeking relaxation and recreation.
Wrightsville Beach: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The island is known as an early home of surfing on the East Coast. Back in 1909, Burke Haywood Bridgers and friends started riding the waves at Wrightsville Beach. Today, that same surf energy lives on with schools and tournaments like the WPA's Carolina Pro Am.
Water quality is another standout for the area. The beach is famous for clean, clear water, thanks to the constant movement from the Masonboro Inlet and the open Atlantic. These conditions make it ideal for anyone who enjoys paddleboarding, kayaking, or kiteboarding.
Opposite the Atlantic Ocean is the Intracoastal Waterway, perfect for SUPs and kayaking along the salt marshes. If you love nature, then keep an eye out for local wildlife and birds.
The well-known Johnnie Mercers Pier is a favorite for grand views and fishing. Noteworthy (pun intended!) is that famed songwriter Johnnie Mercer helped build the wooden pier in 1939 and later managed it. Since then, it's been rebuilt and reinforced with concrete, stretching 1,000 feet into the Atlantic.
Today, anglers line the rails to catch flounder or king mackerel, and early-morning risers gather for breathtaking sunrises. With a bait shop, arcade, and snack options on-site, it's easy to linger all day. Other dining is nearby Poe's Tavern, with a menu and vibe dedicated to author Edgar Allen Poe.
Wrightsville Beach is rich with history, natural wonders, a famous fishing pier, and noteworthy restaurants. These combine to add wonder to your North Carolina getaway.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Wrightsville Beach from Wilmington:
- Start in downtown Wilmington and head east on Market Street (US-17 N / US-76 E).
- Continue for about 2 miles.
- Keep right to continue on US-76 E, following signs to the destination.
- US-76 E becomes Eastwood Road.
- Follow Eastwood Road for 4 miles and cross over the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge.
- Continue straight onto Salisbury Street toward the beachfront.
- Address: 321 Causeway Dr, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Cost
Entry to the beach is free for everyone. However, public parking is available at meters and in paid lots, typically $5.00 per hour or $25.00 per day.
Local Tips
- Download the Wrightsville Beach Parking app to add ease to your parking challenges.
- Bring a refillable water bottle; you'll find public fountains to keep cool.
- Check surf and tide reports for the best times to hit the water.
- The north and south ends of the beach are quieter for a peaceful beach day.
