Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Wrightsville Beach is home to an array of water-based adventures and other refreshing outdoor experiences in a uniquely coastal setting. Get your daily dose of wellness during a getaway filled with eco-adventures, water experiences, scenic views and more.
Aquatic Thrills
Wrightsville Beach is known as the birthplace of surfing in North Carolina, and riding the world-class waves is – unsurprisingly – one of the most popular activities on the island. Surf schools and camps like Indo Jax Surf School and WB Surf Camp offer equipment rentals for experienced surfers, as well as lessons for all ages and skill levels. Take on stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) with Cape Fear Paddleboarding or Wrightsville SUP. Local outfitters and instructors are well-equipped to teach you the skills you need to succeed on the water, no matter your age or level of experience.
Set sail for another unique way to experience Wrightsville Beach’s crystal blue waters. Blockade Runner Sailing Center, one of the state’s only ASA Certified Sailing Schools, offers individualized lessons that will teach you to be your own captain. Prefer to kick back and relax? Wrightsville Performance Sailing and Soundside Adventures at WB offer private rides along the shoreline with an experienced captain at the helm. Feel the wind in your hair aboard the Zoe or Allana on a sunset cruise.
On- and Off-Shore Tours
By day, Soundside Adventures offers a variety of rentals and excursions. The Island Hopper Cruise transports passengers to Masonboro Island Reserve, southern North Carolina’s longest undisturbed barrier island. Loggerhead and green sea turtles are often spotted on these trips. In the evening, set sail with a sunset cruise aboard the Carolina Runner catamaran. These relaxing rides are the perfect way to unwind with stunning island views.
Embark on an educational outing where the whole family will learn about conservation of the habitats and wildlife of the region with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours. Let your imagination run wild with a Pirate Island Treasure Hunt. Helmed by a costumed pirate guide and storyteller, this family-friendly cruise will take you on an adventure to fabled Masonboro Island, where legendary Captain Kidd is rumored to have buried his booty. Or embark on their newest cruise, the Airlie Garden & Bradley Creek Boat Trip, which takes guests on a 90-minute educational journey focused on the tales of past pioneer families and the creek’s nautical history.
Nature Awaits
During NC’s Year of the Trail, celebrate our state's natural beauty with Wrightsville Beach’s many parks, trails, outdoor activities and adventures. Whether it's by foot, bike or paddle, visitors can be sure to find a way to explore our scenic landscapes.
Wrightsville Beach Park is a hit for kids and adults alike. Along with tennis, basketball and pickleball courts, the park has a large playground where kids can slide and swing. It’s also equipped with wheelchair-accessible play areas. During the summer, head to the park to enjoy a summer concert series or the weekly farmers’ market, which is perfect for finding fresh ingredients to prepare in your vacation rental.
A quaint garden on the west end of Wrightsville Beach Park, Harbor Way Gardens is the only park in the state where Witherspoon Roses grow. Take in the beautiful blooms, picnic under the shade trees or stroll along the park path while the kids splash in the children’s fountain.
The Loop, the island’s 2.5-mile paved walking and running path, is an ideal way to take in the scenery on foot. Walk or jog by the Intracoastal Waterway, Banks Channel and beautiful salt marshes. Or, rent bikes from South End Surf Shop and pedal down the 11-mile River to Sea Bikeway beginning at Johnnie Mercers Pier and ending in downtown Wilmington.
Also nearby in Wilmington, don’t miss out on a trip to Airlie Gardens, where you can explore 67 acres of formal gardens and wildlife, 10 acres of lakes, more than 75,000 azaleas in bloom in spring and the historic Airlie Oak.
Wrightsville Beach is brimming with unique opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from parks and gardens to watersports and trails. Savor our coastal environment’s scenic beauty during an active spring escape that will leave you feeling refreshed and re-energized.