Spring Things to Do

Renewal and Adventure in Wrightsville Beach, NC

Featured by Travel and Leisure as one of the best “Spring Break Destinations in the U.S.,” Wrightsville Beach offers a variety of sights, sounds and adventures for visitors. Plan for an island getaway this spring to enjoy outdoor experiences both on water and on land. Enjoy the scenic beauty as you set out on water tours to a private island. Explore coastal blossoms in area parks and gardens or get active with wellness activities. Sip hand-crafted cocktails with friends or spend days lounging by the sea with family. Whatever type of getaway you’re seeking, Wrightsville Beach delivers more than the typical beach vacation.

Carolina Cup Stand Up Paddleboard Race

Spring into Action

Get out and active with annual wellness events in Wrightsville Beach. Race to the finish line at the Novant Health Wilmington NC Marathon, a Boston Marathon qualifier winding from pier to port. Sign up for the Carolina Cup to enjoy five days of stand-up paddleboarding clinics and competitions in one of the best “SUP hubs” in the U.S., or the Carolina SUP Surf Am to compete alongside some of the best standup paddle surfers in the world. Competitors and spectators alike are invited to take part in these events, both of which take place in April.

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Carolina Runner

ISLAND ADVENTURES

Feel the sea breeze on your back with a lesson from a local sailing school. Paddle out at your own pace with a stand up paddleboarding or kayak lesson with area outfitters. Kick back and relax as you experience the island’s crystal blue waters from a new perspective with scenic tours and cruises. Take a shuttle service to explore Masonboro Island Reserve, the longest undisturbed barrier island ecosystem in southern North Carolina, or explore the area’s salt marshes on a Birding Cruise to discover pristine examples of nature. Or, stay active on dry land with a walk or jog along the scenic Loop, a 2.5-mile encircling the island.

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4x3 WB Surf Kid

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN

Head out for a family explorer day with local charters to reel in the big fish. Learn to shred the waves with a surf lesson for the whole family from a local surf camp or with a private lesson. Take a break from the beach with a day of family fun at Wrightsville Beach Park's large playground offering plenty of space to climb, swing and slide. Equipped with a wheelchair swing and a variety of other inclusive playground equipment, the park is the perfect place for anyone to play. You will also find fitness equipment, basketball courts, tennis courts, pickleball courts, picnic shelters and sports fields.

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Harbor Way Gardens

GARDEN BLOOMS

Situated on the west end of Wrightsville Beach Park is Harbor Way Gardens. Relax on benches situated along paved paths, surrounded by large trees and spring blooms. Children can cool off and play in the Children's Fountain, while adults may want to bring their yoga mat along and take their practice outdoors. Visit nearby Airlie Gardens to wander through more than 67 acres of formal gardens and walking trails, as well as 10 acres of lakes. The majestic nearly 500-year-old Airlie Oak is a must-visit spot for first-time guests and return visitors alike.

Stroll in Parks & Gardens

Dockside Outdoor Dining

Savor Fresh Flavors

Indulge in fresh-to-table meals and outdoor dining at island favorites like EAST Oceanfront Dining where award-winning chef, Jessica Cabo, serves up an inventive menu utilizing produce from the hotel's own seaside garden and local seafood. Soak in marina views at Dockside Restaurant or ocean views on the Crystal Pier at Oceanic while enjoying hand-crafted cocktails, sun-kissed shrimp and Southern-infused seafood. Take home some of the freshest seafood right off the boat from Motts Channel Seafood for grilling in your vacation rental. Watch the sunset over Bank's Channel from the dog-friendly patio of South Beach Grill.

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