Winter Things to Do

Escape the Winter Blues for Island Blues At Wrightsville Beach

Locals know winter is one of the best times of year to enjoy all Wrightsville Beach has to offer. With mild temperatures and miles of breathtaking shoreline, it’s the perfect time to try something new, from lessons with the pros in kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and surfing to enjoying the amenities and upgrades at the island’s full-service resorts. Explore the island’s past at the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History or venture to nearby Airlie Gardens. Get out and active with wellness activities like a jog around The Loop or a kayak tour, or plan a romantic weekend with your better half. It’s the right time to take a time out at Wrightsville Beach.

Kayaker in Wrightsville Beach Salt Marshes

WELLNESS-THEMED WINTER

A new year brings the opportunity for fresh starts and new experiences. A vibrant community known for its active lifestyle, options abound for outdoor recreation. Paddle out on the water to take in marsh and Intracoastal Waterway views on a kayak adventure tour with local outfitters. Many island outfitters have wetsuits available for rent so the cooler temps won’t stop you from trying your hand at stand up paddleboarding or a variety of other watersports. Stay on dry land with a jog around the island’s scenic 2.5-mile Loop or rent a bike from a local outfitter and peddle along the 10-mile River to Sea Bikeway from Johnnie Mercers Pier to Historic Downtown Wilmington.

Embark on Active Adventures

Mailbox on beach

ROMANCE IS IN THE AIR

Rise and shine early to catch a breathtaking sunrise while taking a walk to the Wrightsville Beach Mailbox, a tradition over the years for locals and visitors alike to leave anonymous poems, love letters and prayers in this peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spot. For a memorable date night, make a reservation at one of our beloved waterfront restaurants, where you’ll find the freshest seafood, craft cocktails and unparalleled views. Movie buffs won’t want to miss the opportunity to check out filming locations from TV shows and movies shot at Wrightsville Beach, such as Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill and the popular Nicholas Sparks movie, “The Choice.” Spend date night at Dockside Restaurant, a local hot spot overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway that was featured in “The Choice,” or stroll on the beach below the Crystal Pier, where the opening credits of Dawson’s Creek were filmed.

Find More Trip Ideas

Family of four walking on a path on Masonboro Island with the Carolina Runner sailing in the background.

DISCOVER NEW EXPERIENCES

Whether you’re a nautical novice or a seasoned pro, set sail for a class with one of the island’s sailing schools to learn nautical terminology, sailing theory, basic knots and more. Set off on an adventure with tour companies for a sunset cruise around the island, or venture out to Masonboro Island Reserve to explore the longest undisturbed barrier island ecosystem in southern North Carolina. Discover “a century of gardens by the sea” at nearby Airlie Gardens, also a member of the North Carolina Birding Trail. Bird lovers will also want to head to the north end of the island to find the Mason Inlet Waterbird Management Area.

Explore on Island Tours