Wrightsville Beach, NC

Travel Guide

A row of beach houses with a wooden fence in the foreground.
A person walking on a sandy beach.
A beach at sunset with a lifeguard tower, houses, and people on the sand.
A sunset over a calm lake with wooden docks and a gazebo.
An aerial view of a coastal town with a long pier extending into the ocean, surrounded by residential buildings and a sandy beach.

Where to stay in Wrightsville Beach

Find the best Wrightsville Beach areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Wrightsville Beach
Learn more about Wrightsville Beach
A beach with a wooden fence, tall grass, and waves crashing onto the shore.

South End

While visiting South End, you might make a stop by sights like Wrightsville Beach and South End Surf Shop.

An aerial view of a coastal town with a beach, a pier, and a river.

South Harbor Island

While South Harbor Island isn't home to many top sights, Wrightsville Beach and Wrightsville SUP are some notable places to visit nearby.

An aerial view of a coastal town with a long beachfront, clear blue waters, and a marina.

Shell Island

Though Shell Island might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Wrightsville Beach and Wrightsville SUP.

A coastal cityscape with a large body of water, green patches, and a sunset.

Parmele Isle

When in Parmele Isle, you can plan a visit to Wrightsville Beach and Wrightsville SUP, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Stay near popular Wrightsville Beach attractions

A beach with a wooden fence, tall grass, and waves crashing onto the shore.

Wrightsville Beach

9.4/10 (1,992 reviews)
This picturesque barrier island offers consistent waves for surfers, a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of outdoor activities.
See properties

Things to do

Picture 4 for Activity Wilmington: Ghosts of the Port City Haunted Walking Tour

Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour

$32
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour
Sunset Location on Banks Channel Perfect Photograph Shot

Wrightsville Beach Sunset Cruise

$50
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Wrightsville Beach Sunset Cruise
Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour

Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour

$20
per adult
Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour
See all activities in Wrightsville Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Wrightsville Beach worth visiting?
Wrightsville Beach is worth visiting for its beautiful beach and iconic Johnnie Mercer's Pier. Travelers can also enjoy fresh seafood and North American dishes, making it a great spot for coastal relaxation and dining.
When is the best time to visit Wrightsville Beach?
The best time to visit Wrightsville Beach is from May through July, when the weather is typically warm and inviting for enjoying the beach and water activities. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of October through December are a good option, offering a more relaxed experience.
What is Wrightsville Beach known for?
Wrightsville Beach is known for Johnnie Mercer's Pier, a popular landmark for travelers. It's also home to Wrightsville SUP, offering opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding. This destination provides a classic beach experience, making it a great spot for coastal activities.
What is a good itinerary length for Wrightsville Beach?
A good itinerary length for Wrightsville Beach is two to three days to enjoy the beach, visit Johnnie Mercer's Pier, and try activities like a sailing lesson or surfing. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can relax more, explore Wrightsville SUP, and experience more of the local dining, especially seafood. See Wrightsville Beach Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Wrightsville Beach?
Wrightsville Beach offers a mix of relaxing beach days, scenic strolls, and exciting water activities:

  • Relax on Wrightsville Beach, enjoying its natural beauty.
  • Stroll Johnnie Mercer's Pier for ocean views.
  • Take a Sailing Lesson in Wrightsville Beach.
  • Explore the Intracoastal Waterway on an Eco Tour.
  • Discover the area with an Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach.

How do I plan a trip to Wrightsville Beach?
Search for places to stay on Expedia, and book your flights and rental car in advance for Wrightsville Beach. Plan to enjoy activities like a sailing lesson or a private surf lesson. For outdoor experiences at Wrightsville Beach or Johnnie Mercer's Pier, aim for early morning or late afternoon.
What cuisines can you find in Wrightsville Beach?
In Wrightsville Beach, travelers can find fresh seafood, with options like grilled fish, shrimp, and crab cakes. You can also enjoy North American dishes, including burgers and sandwiches, as well as Italian cuisine with pasta and pizza. The area also offers various coffee shops and lounges.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Wrightsville Beach?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Wrightsville Beach by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Wrightsville Beach with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Wrightsville Beach trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Wrightsville Beach?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Wrightsville Beach can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Wrightsville Beach trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Wrightsville Beach trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Wrightsville Beach trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Wrightsville Beach trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Wrightsville Beach?
If it's your first trip to Wrightsville Beach, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Wrightsville Beach hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Wrightsville Beach hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Wrightsville Beach

The Alton L. Lemnion Federal Building, a United States Court House, with palm trees and a flag.

Wilmington

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