Wilmington, North Carolina Beaches

Wrightsville Beach – Wrightsville Beach, one of the two barrier islands on the Cape Fear Coast, is a spectacular coastal destination for weekend getaways and family vacations. A relaxed and friendly atmosphere prevails in this peaceful beach community that radiates a village-style charm. A pristine five-mile stretch of white sand and sparkling water invites beachcombing, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and pier or surf fishing. Boaters, sun worshippers, swimmers, surfers and anglers will find much to appreciate about this public beach along the North Carolina shoreline.

Carolina Beach, NC – Carolina Beach is a beautiful beach resort located on Pleasure Island, the larger of two barrier islands on the Cape Fear Coast – separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway . With wide, sandy beaches, coastal marinas, a Boardwalk, pier, Ferris wheel, gazebo, arcade, and specialty shops, Carolina Beach offers nostalgic charm and a wholesome atmosphere. Anglers love Carolina Beach as the surf promises wonderful bounty, and there are plenty of tackle shops and piers as well as deep-sea fishing and party cruises from charter boats berthed in the municipal yacht basin. Annual fishing tournaments are based on the abundance of king mackerel.

Topsail Island & Beach – A 26-mile-long barrier island 30 minutes north of Wilmington, Topsail Island consists of North Topsail Beach, Surf City and Topsail Beach. On the island’s southern end Topsail Beach is a peaceful, and historic beach community with year-round rental cottages and a charming downtown shopping area. Visitors flock to the beautiful dune-protected beaches along the blue-gray ocean for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing and sea kayaking. Topsail boasts a variety of restaurants, shops, a fishing pier, and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center.

Kure Beach – Situated on the southern tip of Pleasure Island, Kure Beach is a stunning getaway destination with scenic views of the Cape Fear River, the Atlantic Ocean, and Zeke’s Island estuarine complex. Unspoiled beaches and casual restaurants make Kure Beach a favorite for North Carolina vacationers. Kure Beach offers a quiet and relaxed atmosphere with a variety of coastal activities - swimming, fishing, sunbathing and surfing. Cast your fishing line at the 711-foot Kure Beach Fishing Pier, or tour the historic remains of Fort Fisher, the last stronghold of the Confederacy and largest earthen fortress in the South.

Surf City – The largest town on Topsail Island, Surf Cityoffers many public boat ramps and great fishing at the new Soundside Park - over the swing bridge - offering access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Kure Beach – At the southern tip of Pleasure Island, Kure Beach is a stunning destination with views of the Cape Fear River, the Atlantic Ocean, and Zeke’s Island estuarine. Kure Beach offers a tranquil atmosphere for swimming, fishing, sunbathing and surfing. The 711-foot Kure Beach Fishing Pier is the perfect spot to cast your fishing line. Dine at several restaurants or stroll along the charming boardwalk that is lighted at night. History buffs enjoy touring the remains of Fort Fisher, the last major stronghold of the Confederacy and the largest earthen fortress in the South.

Bald Head Island – Four miles off the coast of Southport, at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, Bald Head Island is one of the most beautiful natural beaches and maritime forests on the North Carolina coast. The island offers 14 miles of protected beaches, pristine dunes, creeks and forests surrounded by 10,000 acres of salt marshes. Enjoy a marina, a restaurant, specialty stores, a golf course, and bike rentals. Look for the Bald Head Island Lighthouse - the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina built in 1817.