Wrightsville Beach is the perfect destination for an elevated and active family-friendly spring break. There’s plenty for all ages to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to scenic excursions. Here are nine activities to help make the most of your trip to Wrightsville Beach with the whole family.
1. Navigate Local Waterways – Explore the calm, crystal blue waters of the Intracoastal Waterway alongside a local outfitter like Wrightsville SUP, which offers guided kayak tours as well as standup paddleboard lessons and excursions. To experience the magic of the waterways at night, choose a guided LED night paddle. For a self-guided adventure, Wrightsville Kayak Company provides rentals, gear and laminated maps along with instructions for exploring local sanctuaries like Masonboro Island, Shark Tooth Island and more.
2. Set Off on an Eco-Adventure – Hop aboard a scenic boat tour to explore nearby islands, learn about local marine life and take in breathtaking views. The Island Hopper Cruise with Soundside Adventures is great for all ages, making stops at surrounding islands including Masonboro Island Reserve, the longest undisturbed barrier island in North Carolina. Coastal Eco Adventures offers intimate boating and eco-exploration opportunities ideal for families and small groups.
3. Explore Local Parks and Gardens – For family-friendly fun on dry land, head to Wrightsville Beach Park, which features a playground for little ones, fitness equipment and picnic tables. At the end of the park, Harbor Way Gardens offers shaded benches and a children’s splash fountain where kids can cool off.
4. Walk or Bike The Loop – Take a stroll on The Loop, a scenic 2.5-mile paved fitness trail that winds through town, or bike along its path. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Banks Channel and the surrounding marches while getting some exercise. The Shed, located along The Loop, provides beach cruiser bike rentals of all sizes, along with a spot to refill water bottles.
5. Learn How to Hang Ten – As the birthplace of surfing in North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach is one of the best surf spots on the East Coast, making it a great place for kids and beginners to take a surf lesson. The whole family can learn to ride the waves with a private group lesson from trained instructors at Sean’s Private Surf Instruction. All the necessary equipment is provided including wetsuits for cooler temperatures. Many of the area’s local surf shops also offer private and group classes, too.
6. Visit the Piers – For panoramic ocean views or to cast a line, head to one of the island’s two piers: Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier or Crystal Pier. Extending more than 1,200 feet, Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier is the first concrete fishing pier in North Carolina. Stop into the full-service tackle shop offering everything from rod rentals to snacks and bites to eat, as well as the required walk-out and fishing passes, which can be purchased online, too. Stretching 475 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, the Crystal Pier is free for walk-out and fishing. It is also home to Oceanic Restaurant, featuring coastal-inspired cuisine and specialty cocktails with a breathtaking view.
7. Spend A Day Under the Sun – Spring break isn't complete without spending time on the beach. You can play in the sand and surf, or simply relax and enjoy the coastal views. Grab beach chairs and shade rentals from The Shed and find a nearby public beach access to set up for the day.
8. Sample Kid-Approved Eats – There is plenty of family-friendly dining in Wrightsville Beach to enjoy during spring break. Trolly Stop is a must-visit for casual, kid-approved hot dogs with a variety of toppings. For fresh seafood in a laid-back setting, Oceanic offers a kids' menu and stunning pier views. South Beach Grill serves up Southern coastal favorites with plenty of kid-friendly options, including shrimp baskets and mac and cheese. And for a sweet treat, stop by Kohl's Frozen Custard for scooped or soft-served custard.
9. Stay Together – Elevate your family getaway with a stay at one of Wrightsville Beach’s full-service oceanfront resorts. Trailborn Surf & Sound offers a deluxe Garden Suite with three rooms, a kitchenette and ample space for the whole family. Lumina on Wrightsville Beach, a Holiday Inn Resort, features suites with a queen or king bed, bunk beds and oceanfront views. For larger families, a variety of spacious vacation rentals are available to meet everyone’s needs.
Wrightsville Beach is an ideal family spring break destination with outdoor and active adventures on land or water to add to your itinerary.
