Wrightsville Beach, NC, is a lively coastal town that offers various activities, from water sports to cultural experiences. Whether looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy this beautiful beach destination. Here’s a guide to 30 fun things to do during your visit.
Enjoy The Pristine Beaches
Wrightsville Beach is known for its stunning sandy beaches. Spend a day relaxing on the shore, soaking up the sun, and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you prefer a peaceful day lounging with a book or playing beach volleyball, there’s plenty of space to unwind.
Try Surfing The Waves
Wrightsville Beach is a popular surfing destination, offering waves for both beginners and experienced surfers. If you’re new to the sport, you can sign up for a surfing lesson at one of the local surf schools. It’s a thrilling way to experience the ocean.
Explore By Paddleboard
For a more tranquil water activity, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). You can rent a board and paddle out on the calm waters surrounding Wrightsville Beach. It’s a great way to enjoy the area’s beauty while getting some exercise.
Take A Sunset Cruise
Watching the sunset over the water is a magical experience in Wrightsville Beach. Book a sunset cruise to enjoy breathtaking coastline views as the sky transforms into vibrant shades of orange and pink. Some cruises even offer drinks and snacks on board.
Visit The Wrightsville Beach Museum Of History
Visit the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History to learn about the town’s past. This small but informative museum showcases local history, including how hurricanes have shaped the area and the evolution of beach culture over the years.
Go Fishing At Johnny Mercer’s Pier
Johnnie Mercer’s Pier is a must-visit for fishing enthusiasts. You can fish off the pier if you’re an experienced angler or want to cast a line. Even if you’re not into fishing, it’s an excellent spot for a leisurely walk with ocean views.
Explore The Intracoastal Waterway
Wrightsville Beach is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Rent a kayak or boat and explore the calm waters of the waterway, where you’ll see scenic marshlands and possibly spot some local wildlife like dolphins and birds.
Take A Scenic Bike Ride On The Loop
The Wrightsville Beach Loop is a 2.5-mile circuit perfect for biking, walking, or jogging. Rent a bike and cruise along the loop, which offers beautiful views of the water and the town’s charming streets. It’s an easy and fun way to see the area.
Learn To Kiteboard
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, consider learning to kiteboard. Wrightsville Beach’s strong winds make it an ideal location for this extreme sport. Several local shops offer lessons for beginners so you can safely get started.
Go Sailing
Rent a sailboat or book a sailing tour for a peaceful day on the water. Sailing is a popular pastime in Wrightsville Beach, and there are plenty of opportunities to take to the water and enjoy the breeze while watching the waves roll by.
Visit Airlie Gardens
Just a short drive from Wrightsville Beach, Airlie Gardens is a 67-acre park with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and historic oak trees. It’s a great place to explore nature and relax among vibrant flowers and peaceful water features.
Join A Yoga Class On The Beach
Start your day with a beach yoga session. Many local instructors offer classes right on the sand, combining the calming sounds of the ocean with a revitalizing workout. It’s a relaxing and rejuvenating way to experience the beauty of Wrightsville Beach.
Go Jet Skiing
If you’re a speed fan, rent a jet ski and zoom across the waves. Several local rental shops offer jet skis for a few hours or a full day, allowing you to experience the thrill of riding through the ocean or the Intracoastal Waterway.
Attend The Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market
During the warmer months, the Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. It’s a great place to pick up some local treats or souvenirs.
Participate In A Beach Cleanup
Help keep Wrightsville Beach beautiful by joining a local beach cleanup event. Many organizations host volunteer days where visitors and locals work together to collect litter from the beach. It’s a rewarding way to give back while enjoying the outdoors.
Take A Dolphin-Watching Tour
Book a dolphin-watching tour to see these playful creatures up close. Wrightsville Beach is home to several species of dolphins, and boat tours will take you out on the water for a fun and educational experience.
Try Parasailing
For a bird’s-eye view of Wrightsville Beach, give parasailing a try. Soaring high above the ocean while being pulled by a boat offers breathtaking panoramic views of the beach and surrounding islands. It’s an exhilarating way to see the area from above.
Visit Masonboro Island Reserve
Accessible only by boat, Masonboro Island Reserve is an uninhabited barrier island that offers pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty. Spend a day exploring the island, watching birds, collecting shells, or enjoying the peaceful solitude.
Go On A Kayaking Eco-Tour
Join a guided eco-tour to paddle through the marshlands and waterways around Wrightsville Beach. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, see wildlife like ospreys and pelicans, and enjoy a peaceful paddle through scenic waters.
Attend A Surfing Competition
If you visit during the summer, you might be lucky to catch a surfing competition. Wrightsville Beach hosts several events yearly where talented surfers show off their skills. It’s exciting to watch and get involved in the local surfing community.
Take A Group Fitness Class On The Beach
Fitness enthusiasts will love taking group workout classes right on the beach. From boot camps to yoga, there are plenty of ways to stay active while enjoying the sand and surf.
Visit The New Hanover County Arboretum
The New Hanover County Arboretum is located nearby. It is a seven-acre garden with colorful flowers, ponds, and peaceful walking paths. It’s free to visit and a lovely way to spend a quiet afternoon in nature.
Try Scuba Diving
Explore the underwater world off the coast of Wrightsville Beach by scuba diving. Local dive shops offer equipment rentals and guided dives, where you can explore shipwrecks, reefs, and marine life beneath the surface.
Play Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball is a popular activity in Wrightsville Beach, with several courts available along the shore. Grab a ball and some friends, or join a pickup game with locals for some friendly competition.
Explore The Wrightsville Beach Scenic Walking Trail
This trail runs through some of Wrightsville Beach’s most scenic areas. Stroll along the trail, which offers views of the ocean, marshes, and local wildlife. It’s a great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Go On A Fishing Charter
For a deep-sea fishing adventure, book a fishing charter. Head out into the Atlantic Ocean to try your luck at catching fish like tuna, mackerel, and grouper. Fishing charters provide all the gear you need and are led by experienced captains.
Attend The Annual Flotilla
The Wrightsville Beach Flotilla is an annual holiday event where boats decorated with lights parade along the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a festive and fun event that brings the community together to kick off the holiday season.
Visit A Local Art Gallery
Wrightsville Beach has a thriving arts scene, with several local galleries showcasing works by regional artists. Spend time browsing the galleries to discover unique pieces and support local talent.
Go On A Ghost Walk
For a spooky experience, join a ghost walk tour in nearby Wilmington. These guided tours take you through historic streets and share chilling tales of haunted locations and paranormal activity.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood At A Waterfront Restaurant
End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at Wrightsville Beach’s waterfront restaurant. Many offer stunning ocean views, fresh local catches, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a memorable meal.