Fall Things to Do

Fall Hues and Coastal Views in Wrightsville Beach, NC

Escape to Wrightsville Beach for all the things you know and love about the coast with the added benefits of mild temperatures, warm waves and fewer crowds. Named the "Best Waterfront Town in North Carolina” by Southern Living, Wrightsville Beach is the perfect place to try something new for two or return to your favorite island spots solo or with friends. Adventure seekers and outdoor lovers alike will want to embark on a guided kayak tour to Masonboro Island Reserve or learn to ride a wave with a surf or SUP lesson. Step up your fitness game with a jog along The Loop or pack your yoga mat and take your practice to the beach or on the pier. Wind down with surf-inspired cocktails and craft brews complemented by scenic views while savoring fresh-to-table, local favorites. There’s no better time to get away to Wrightsville Beach.

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HIGHLIGHTS AND EVENTS

Discover seasonal events and live music to enhance your beach experience. Find your Zen with Morning SUP Yoga each Sunday through Sept. 27 or Yoga on the Crystal Pier offered most days through BeUnlimited Yoga. Cheer on participants as they compete in the Outrigger East Coast Championship Oct. 4-5. Watch as competitors from all over the world race to the finish line during the IRONMAN 70.3 North Carolina Triathlon Oct. 25 or get your heart pumping at the Seaside Shuffle 5k Oct. 18. Support Wrightsville Beach’s own Lighthouse Beer & Wine at two days of festivals in downtown Wilmington with limited edition beer releases, live music, local food and more at the Voracious Rare Beer Festival Oct. 17 and the Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival Oct. 18.

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Dec 13

Birds of a Feather Art in the Garden

December 13, 2025 - December 31, 2025

Airlie Gardens

Dec 13

The 12 Bars of Christmas

December 13, 2025 - December 21, 2025

Various Participating Bars across Wilmington

Dec 31

Bluewater's New Year's Eve Bash

December 31, 2025

Bluewater Waterfront Grill

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Two women on stand up paddleboards on the water taking a lesson.

Nature & Active ADVENTURES

Find out why Wrightsville Beach is known as one of the best “SUP hubs” in the U.S. with a low-impact, high-performance SUP fitness class from local outfitters. Hang ten at surf schools in one of the top surfing towns in the world with year-round surf waters. Explore the South End of the island, where you can spot beach-nesting birds and spectacular sunsets at the protected North Carolina Estuarine Research Reserve. Let local outfitters lead the way as you travel along Wrightsville Beach’s scenic waterways with a guided kayak tour. Land lovers can take a brisk walk or jog around the island’s 2.5-mile Loop or grab a bike to traverse the 10-mile River to Sea Bikeway winding from Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier to Historic Downtown Wilmington.

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My Yacht Source -01

CRUISES & EXCURSIONS

Explore beneath the waves with SCUBA diving companies to discover offshore reefs, ledges, shipwrecks and underwater habitats near Wrightsville Beach. Sail away on "Bella," Soundside Adventure’s luxurious catamaran, and enjoy a private excursion to hidden gems like Palm Tree Island or Money Island. For an exclusive adventure, book a private charter with Awesome Adventures to Masonboro Island Reserve, an uninhabited haven accessible only by boat, perfect for exploring pristine waters. Unwind with a scenic sunset cruise from La Dee Dah Sunset Cruises or Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, soaking in the stunning coastal views.

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King Neptune Seared Grouper

FALL FLAVORS & Experiences

Discover the fall flavors of Wrightsville Beach, where seasonal specials and local favorites come alive. Indulge in the tastes of Panama at Ceviche’s, or savor classic dishes like Bacon Wrapped Scallops at King Neptune, a beloved spot since 1947. Perched along the Intracoastal Waterway, The Bridge Tender offers stunning views to accompany your meal. Hop into the new Bevvy Mart and peruse their wide selection of drinks, snacks and convenience items. Don’t miss out on Taste of Wrightsville Beach Nov. 1 and sample the island’s diverse cuisine with more than 35 food, wine and beer tasting booths. As night falls, the vibrant nightlife heats up with live music concert series at the Oceanic and Bluewater Waterfront Grill. No matter what evening activities you prefer, you’re sure to enjoy a variety of entertainment under the stars in this walkable beach town.

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Harbor Way Gardens beauty spot.

Scenic Parks & Gardens

Situated on the west end of Wrightsville Beach Park is Harbor Way Gardens. This one-acre garden is the perfect place to practice yoga or rest in the shade surrounded by large trees and seasonal blooms. Wrightsville Beach Park is home to a large playground with plenty of space for children to climb, swing, spin and slide. Visitors will also find fitness equipment, basketball courts, tennis courts, pickleball courts, picnic shelter and sports fields. Grab your furry companion and enjoy Wrightsville Beach's free Bark in the Park event Oct. 4. Nearby, explore more than 67 acres of beautiful gardens and walking trails at Airlie Gardens, and be sure to check out the towering nearly 500-year-old Airlie Oak. Visit East Salisbury Oceanfront Park, located near Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier, for the best ocean access, parking, showers, changing rooms and restroom facilities that make getting on the beach a breeze.

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