At Wrightsville Beach, the fun isn’t just in the crystal-blue waves. Thanks to a couple island playgrounds, there’s also plenty for kids to do on land! Climb, spin and glide across inclusive play structures at Wrightsville Beach Park, or explore the mini playground at Greensboro Street Park, just a short walk from Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier. With salty breezes, nearby picnic spots and plenty of room to run, these play areas are the perfect detour for any beach day.


Wrightsville Beach Municipal Playground

Fun for Kids of All Abilities

Located at Wrightsville Beach Park, this inclusive playground has something for all ages and abilities. Explore classic slides, swings and climbing features, along with spin cups, a four-person seesaw and interactive play structures.

After playtime, eat lunch or take a break at the shaded picnic shelters, and visit the public restrooms if needed. Later, try the outdoor fitness equipment or keep moving on the park’s basketball, tennis and pickleball courts.

Insider tip: Poe’s Tavern is just a two-minute drive from the park and has a kids’ menu with grilled cheese, mac and cheese, burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches and quesadillas. Place a takeout order for an afternoon picnic, or eat in the restaurant’s shaded outdoor seating area.

Seasonal Events

Wrightsville Beach Park hosts fun community events, too:

  • On Mondays (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) from early May to early December, browse the Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market. Discover fresh produce, baked goods and locally made crafts – and don’t miss the refreshing popsicles (made with real fruit) from Popsicle Goddess. 
  • Grab a bite from local food trucks and listen to family-friendly music at the Concerts in the Park Series.
  • In October, watch your kids practice biking skills and see emergency vehicles up close during a “touch-a-truck” experience at the WB Bike Rodeo. Bonus: Complimentary hot dogs, burgers and drinks are provided, courtesy of Jimmy's Bike Drive – a nonprofit that gives free bikes to kids in need.
  • Bring blankets and lawn chairs and settle in for Movies in the Park, showing kid-friendly classics throughout the year. Past movie choices include “Monsters University,” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” and “Ghostbusters: Afterlife.”
  • On Thanksgiving morning, run (or walk) through town during the Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot, which has 1-mile and 5K options. Bonus points if you wear a turkey outfit for the costume contest!

For the most up-to-date event details, visit the Town of Wrightsville Beach website.

Nearby Family Adventures

Wander the Wrightsville Beach Loop (a.k.a. The Loop), a scenic 2.45-mile path that winds through town. Stop at Harbor Way Gardens, a peaceful area with blooms and a sculptural water feature. Or, take a short walk from the playground to the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, where you’ll find a scale model of Wrightsville Beach ca. 1910, as well as exhibits featuring historical beach gear.

Mini Park - Wrightsville Beach

Greensboro Street Park

Mini-Park Play

This fenced park offers a quieter play area surrounded by shady trees and palms. Swing and slide for a while, then rest under a covered picnic shelter.

Nearby Family Beach Time

Stroll a block from the playground to Access No. 16 and head straight to the sand. Dig around for shells and shark teeth, splash in the waves or take a walk along the shore. Good to know: This access point is wheelchair friendly, with public restrooms and beach showers nearby.

Just steps away, Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier stretches 1,200 feet into the ocean. Walk the pier, watch anglers reel in their catch and order a hot dog or ice cream cone from the seasonal snack bar.

Insider tip: Stop by Access 16 Beach Shoppe on your way to the shore for beach gear, souvenirs and refreshing snacks.

Keep the fun going in nearby Wilmington with playgrounds, splash zones and all kinds of outdoor adventures.

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