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Discover 5,102 Shell Island hotels and places to stay, with room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites

3.5 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1442)
"Excellent beach front property and great staff!"
$299 nightly
The price is $338
Aug 18 - Aug 19
Total includes taxes and fees
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites

Sea Vista Motel

2.0 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (110)
"Quite and great view!"
$260 nightly
The price is $293
Jul 28 - Jul 29
Total includes taxes and fees
Sea Vista Motel

Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

3.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1004)
"Great location, very nice staff."
$289 nightly
The price is $327
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Total includes taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

Silver Gull Motel

2.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1003)
"This property is very close to the beach and safe."
$259 nightly
The price is $293
Jul 24 - Jul 25
Total includes taxes and fees
Silver Gull Motel

Trailborn Surf & Sound

4.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (96)
"Adorable resort style oceanfront hotel. Loved the decor. Would stay again. "
$317 nightly
The price is $358
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Total includes taxes and fees
Trailborn Surf & Sound

Surf Suites

2.5 star property
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (382)
"great views and nice location."
$299 nightly
The price is $338
Jul 27 - Jul 28
Total includes taxes and fees
Surf Suites

Holiday Inn Express Wilmington Porters Neck by IHG

2.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (425)
"My husband and I stayed here for two nights and were very impressed! The hotel was clean and in a nice area. We would stay here again. "
$148 nightly
The price is $167
Aug 18 - Aug 19
Total includes taxes and fees
Holiday Inn Express Wilmington Porters Neck by IHG

Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

2.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1007)
"The hotel was in a great location between the beach and Wilmington. The staff was extremely accommodating and friendly."
$156 nightly
The price is $176
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Total includes taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

3.0 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1007)
"Staff extremely friendly room clean "
$159 nightly
The price is $180
Aug 11 - Aug 12
Total includes taxes and fees
SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

2.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (319)
"Great breakfast, too! "
$152 nightly
The price is $172
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Total includes taxes and fees
Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall

3.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (338)
"Had a great stay!"
$186 nightly
The price is $210
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Total includes taxes and fees
Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall

Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

3.0 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1004)
"This was a great hotel in an excellent area. We would definitely stay here again when in Wilmington!"
$160 nightly
The price is $181
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Total includes taxes and fees
Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

3.0 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1003)
"Good place to stay and great location"
$142 nightly
The price is $161
Aug 20 - Aug 21
Total includes taxes and fees
Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

The Beach House

2.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (449)
"Very nice stay"
$323 nightly
The price is $365
Jul 27 - Jul 28
Total includes taxes and fees
The Beach House

Boardwalk Inn

2.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (64)
"Easy access to Boardwalk, great location."
$238 nightly
The price is $270
Jul 28 - Jul 29
Total includes taxes and fees
Boardwalk Inn

Fairfield Inn & Suites Wilmington / Wrightsville Beach

2.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1009)
"Great place to stay!"
$121 nightly
The price is $137
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Total includes taxes and fees
Fairfield Inn & Suites Wilmington / Wrightsville Beach

Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront

3.5 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1004)
"Good place to stay. Staff not as friendly but overall is good place to stay. "
$365 nightly
The price is $412
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Total includes taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach Oceanfront

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

3.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (901)
"Had a great stay"
$125 nightly
The price is $141
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Total includes taxes and fees
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

Courtyard Carolina Beach Oceanfront

3.0 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1004)
"Great place to stay"
$239 nightly
The price is $270
Aug 20 - Aug 21
Total includes taxes and fees
Courtyard Carolina Beach Oceanfront

Suburban Studios of Wilmington

2.0 star property
6.6 out of 10, (743)
"Light switch was hood , plug switch , and the bathroom wall was a lot stains on it "
$93 nightly
The price is $105
Aug 6 - Aug 7
Total includes taxes and fees
Suburban Studios of Wilmington
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Shell Island

Find the best Shell Island areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
South End map

South End

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

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

South Harbor Island map

South Harbor Island

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

Parmele Isle map

Parmele Isle

When in Parmele Isle, you can plan a visit to Johnnie Mercer's Pier and Wrightsville SUP, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Top Shell Island Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Shell Island

Find out more about Shell Island

Top reasons to visit Shell Island

  • Stunning Beaches: Shell Island features beautiful sandy beaches perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
  • Outdoor Activities: Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor adventures, including surfing, boating, and exploring local parks.
  • Local Culture: Experience the vibrant culture of nearby Wrightsville Beach with shopping and dining options.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Engage in various family activities, making it a great destination for travelers of all ages.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from cozy hotels to luxurious resorts, catering to every travel preference.

Find great hotels in and around Shell Island

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Shell Island, where a variety of hotel accommodations await. From cozy 2-star options to luxurious 4-star resorts, you’ll find oceanfront suites and inviting guest rooms tailored for every traveler. Enjoy amenities like beach chairs and business-friendly services, all in an LGBTQIA-welcoming environment. Whether you're looking for relaxation or exploration, Shell Island has something for everyone.

  • Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites: This 3.5-star resort is perfect for families and adventure-seekers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Shell Island. With direct beach access, guests can enjoy a variety of water sports such as motorboating, fishing, and surfing, all available nearby. The resort caters to families with children-friendly amenities, including a pool gate for safe swimming and highchairs upon reservation. The spacious oceanfront suites offer breathtaking views, creating an ideal setting for a memorable beach vacation.
  • Trailborn Surf & Sound: A 3-star resort located just 2 miles from Shell Island, Trailborn Surf & Sound is a haven for those craving an adventurous beach getaway. Guests can take part in onsite activities such as surfing, kayaking, and boat tours, all while enjoying easy access to the beach. This resort provides a vibrant atmosphere where adventure meets relaxation, making it a great choice for thrill-seekers and families alike. The friendly staff ensures a welcoming experience, allowing guests to unwind after a day of exciting pursuits.
  • Comfort Inn University: Situated 5 miles from Shell Island, Comfort Inn University is an excellent option for families looking for comfort and convenience. This hotel offers essential amenities like free cribs and a first aid kit, catering to the needs of traveling families. While it may be slightly farther from the beach, guests appreciate the spacious rooms and attentive service, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a family-friendly atmosphere without compromising on comfort and accessibility.

Where to stay near Shell Island

Discover the charm of Shell Island, a serene haven perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning sandy beaches and tranquil atmosphere, this neighborhood offers a delightful escape for leisure travelers. Explore nearby Wrightsville Beach for vibrant local culture, or simply unwind on the quiet shores of Shell Island. Experience friendly hospitality and the breathtaking coastal views that make this region a top destination in North Carolina.

  • Wrightsville Beach: Nestled along the picturesque coast of North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach is renowned for its stunning shoreline and vibrant community. This beach city attracts seasonal visitors, particularly from June to July and September, making it a bustling hub during the summer months. The area offers a plethora of outdoor activities, perfect for families looking to enjoy a beach day. Travelers can explore the scenic boardwalk, engage in educational experiences, or simply relax on the sandy shores. Notable local landmarks include the inviting family beach and charming town neighborhoods, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.
  • Parmele Isle: Just a short distance of 0.4 miles from Shell Island, Parmele Isle is a serene neighborhood ideal for couples seeking romance and adventure. While it experiences peak visitor numbers from June to August, it maintains a welcoming atmosphere year-round. This area is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and thrilling water sports, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the scenic boardwalk, visitors can partake in various adventure activities, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views and close-knit community vibe.
  • South Harbor Island: Located 1 mile from Shell Island, South Harbor Island offers a tranquil escape with its beautiful landscapes and outdoor amenities. Similar to Parmele Isle, visitor numbers peak during the summer months of June to August, providing a lively yet relaxed environment. The neighborhood is perfect for romance seekers and features activities like golf and educational tours. With a charming boardwalk and access to lovely beaches, South Harbor Island serves as an excellent base for exploration and relaxation, ensuring a delightful vacation for all.

Things to do near Shell Island

Shell Island offers a perfect getaway for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring activities like shopping at local stores, enjoying the recreational area, and strolling along the boardwalk. Visitors can dive into exciting sports opportunities, explore carnival attractions, catch some waves while searching for surf, and embark on scenic boat tours to enjoy the coastal beauty of Wrightsville Beach.

Shopping

While in Shell Island, visit the South End Surf Shop, just a mile away, for surf gear and beachwear. The Aussie Island Surf Shop is also nearby, only 1 mile away. If you're up for a drive, Mayfaire Town Center, 3 miles away, offers a wider shopping experience with various stores.

Recreation

Live Oak Bank Pavilion offers vibrant music events, perfect for those seeking an entertaining atmosphere. Freeman Park provides a tranquil recreational area ideal for relaxation and wellness. For sports enthusiasts, Cape Fear National at Brunswick Forest presents an excellent golf course surrounded by picturesque outdoor scenery.

Adventure

At Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, located 5 miles from Shell Island, experience thrilling water slides and wave pools perfect for family fun. Enjoy romantic strolls along the Riverwalk, 10 miles away, or embrace outdoor adventure with Wrightsville SUP, a water sports venue situated 0.8 miles from Shell Island.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, just 9 miles from Shell Island, offering captivating shows. For a fun-filled evening, visit Topsail Skating Rink, 13 miles away, where adventure meets family excitement. City Stage Theatre, also 9 miles away, promises cultural entertainment and romance.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shell Island

To save money on your trip to Shell Island, plan your visit between December and February for lower accommodation rates, avoiding the peak summer months. Aim to book stays on Tuesdays for the best prices. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and find great deals by arranging hotel, flights, and activities into a package. Consider joining Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash back on future hotel stays. Additionally, explore free activities at Wrightsville Beach and utilize public transport to keep travel costs low.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shell Island are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shell Island is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shell Island is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay on Shell Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Shell Island

Shell Island and Wrightsville Beach offer a perfect blend of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy urban parks, modern colleges, and beautiful shorelines while engaging in family-friendly activities. Whether you're seeking a tranquil beach day or a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, Shell Island has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.

  • Wrightsville Beach: Experience the quintessential beach vibes at Wrightsville Beach, located 3 miles from Shell Island. This stunning stretch of sandy shoreline is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.
  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington: Just 5 miles away, the University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers a vibrant atmosphere with its modern campus, bustling student life, and beautiful gardens. Explore the art and culture that thrive in this city-like environment, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick bite.
  • Johnnie Mercer's Pier: Located 0.7 miles from Shell Island, Johnnie Mercer's Pier is a family-friendly spot ideal for fishing, romantic walks, or simply enjoying the ocean views. This inviting pier provides a great setting for both relaxation and social gatherings.

Best time to go to Shell Island

The best time to visit Shell Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Shell Island falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Shell Island falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June77.9°F (25.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September76.1°F (24.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shell Island

Traveling to Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is convenient via two major airports. Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is only 8 miles away, with several hotels nearby, including Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and ARRIVE Wilmington, both 3 miles from the airport. The Graystone Inn, a charming guesthouse, is also within the same distance. Alternatively, you can fly into Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, located 43 miles from Shell Island. Nearby accommodations include Chateau Rouge, a 3.5-star guesthouse 7 miles away, and Coastal Motel, 10 miles from the airport, ensuring easy access to your vacation destination.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Shell Island that travelers recommend?
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is a highly recommended choice among travelers, boasting a review score of 8.4. This resort offers all oceanfront suites, providing breathtaking views right from your balcony or patio. Families appreciate the spacious rooms, complete with kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare meals and snacks for the kids. The outdoor pool, complete with sun loungers and poolside bar service, creates a relaxing atmosphere for both adults and children to unwind after a day of beach adventures.
What are the best family hotels in Shell Island?
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites in Wrightsville Beach is a fantastic option for families seeking a memorable getaway. This family-friendly hotel features spacious rooms, including convenient connecting rooms and sofa beds, ensuring that everyone has a comfortable place to relax after a day of adventures.
Which beach resorts in Shell Island do travelers love?
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is a favorite among travelers seeking a beach escape in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. This resort boasts stunning ocean views and direct beach access, making it an ideal choice for families looking to enjoy sun-soaked adventures. With amenities like beach volleyball on-site and a nearby marina offering a variety of water activities, there's no shortage of fun for everyone.
What are the best budget hotels in Shell Island?
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort and convenience at Wrightsville Beach. With an exceptional score of 8.4, this resort offers a variety of amenities that cater to travelers.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline – this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right Shell Island hotel for you.
How can I save on a Shell Island hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Shell Island hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It's free to join, and you'll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you're signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Shell Island hotel?
Hotel prices in Shell Island often vary, but you can find a great deal from $105 on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.