Winter Things to Do
Escape the Winter Blues for Island Blues in Wrightsville Beach
Locals know winter is one of the best times of year to enjoy Wrightsville Beach. With milder temperatures and miles of breathtaking shoreline, it’s the perfect time to try something new in 2023, from lessons with the pros in kayaking and sailing to enjoying the amenities at the island’s full-service resorts. Explore the past at the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History. Get out and active with wellness activities like a jog around The Loop or plan a romantic weekend with your significant other. It’s the right time to take a time out at Wrightsville Beach.
Seasonal Events
Learn how oysters are raised from seed to harvest and then sample local oysters with Epic Excursions Oyster Farm Tour and Tasting experience Feb. 5 and March 18. Get your heart pumping during the Wrightsville Beach Valentine Run Feb.11 or go the distance at the Novant Health Wilmington Marathon, a Boston Marathon qualifying event which starts at Johnnie Mercers Pier Feb. 25.
Featured Events
Azalea Festival Sun Run: 5K or 1Mile
Oceanic Restaurant
Johnnie Mercers Pier Dogfish Classic
Johnnie Mercers Pier
Oyster Farm Tour & Tasting
Epic Excursions
WELLNESS-THEMED ACTIVITIES
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. Stay on dry land with a jog around the island’s scenic 2.5-mile Loop. 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.
ROMANCE IS IN THE SALT AIR
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 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 restaurants like South Beach Grill or EAST Oceanfront Dining. Opt for an evening of fresh sea-to-table entrees like the Flounder Francaise made with goat cheese, fried caper and topped with rigatoni at King Neptune. Savor island flavors paired with scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway at The Bridge Tender. Enjoy made-to-order steaks and fresh seafood dishes like the Chef's Trio. Book a room at one of the island’s hotels, resorts or vacation rentals or find packages like the Blockade Runner Beach Resort's one- or two-night Rendezvous Package perfect for two with a prix fixe dinner, breakfast in bed and more.
Try Something New
Embark on 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. Bird lovers will want to head to the north end of the island to find the Mason Inlet Waterbird Management Area. Register for a birding excursion with local experts to spot wintering shorebirds Feb. 22. Or, head to nearby Airlie Gardens, also a member of the North Carolina Birding Trail, to join a guided Bird Walk and look for rare Piping Plovers or Western Kingbirds. Bird Walks are offered the second Wednesday of each month and pre-registration is required.
SPRING Blooms SOON
It’s never too early to begin planning a spring vacation to Wrightsville Beach. Get a head start by booking a vacation rental fit for the whole family or check out area hotels and resorts with stunning waterfront views. Live music season kicks off in April. Prepare to enhance your SUP skills at the Carolina Cup April 29-30, featuring paddleboarding clinics and competitions. Or, surround yourself with seasonal blooms at Harbor Way Gardens. Shop for stylish apparel based on spring fashion trends, fashionable jewelry and handbags at Hallelu Boutique or find name brand outfitter apparel, beach accessories and more at Redix.
Featured Winter Blogs
A Charming Valentine’s Day in Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach sets the scene for a romantic getaway that transcends the conventional. Replace candy hearts with seashells and pink carnations...
5 min read