Things To Do
Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is famous for its wide, white-sand beaches that stretch for miles and its beautiful blue waters. Spend a beach day soaking up the sun, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, or simply hunting for seashells. Insider Tip: Wrightsville Beach is extremely popular amongst locals and tourists. If you are coming in for a day trip and not staying on the island, get there early! Parking is limited. Make sure to also check out Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier for some great views, especially during sunset.
Wilmington Riverwalk, Battleship Eastside Site.
Stroll along nearly two-miles of scenic walkway alongside the historic Cape Fear River. Stretching from Nunn Street to the Isabella Holmes Bridge, lined with an assortment of markets, unique boutiques and art galleries, the Riverwalk is home to quaint shops, outdoor cafes and narrated tours.
Airlie Gardens
We are excited to share our garden with you. Last year we saw over 200,000 visitors at Airlie. Our goal is to showcase the natural beauty of the garden while sharing the history and ensuring the preservation of the area. Each year we welcome 4,000+ students to the garden to share our connection to the environment, protecting it for future generations. We hope you will join us for one of our signature events held throughout the year, or just for a relaxing stroll around the garden. –Jodi Rich, Executive Director
Indochine Restaurant
Thai & Vietnamese fare served in an exotic, art-filled setting with an outdoor garden & gazebos
Pilot House
The Pilot House restaurant was founded in 1978 and offers amazing views of the Cape Fear River and a quintessential Southern coastal menu. Start with the pimento cheese appetizer. My go-to order is the crab cake sandwich or the fried seafood platter. David loves the hot honey chicken sandwich or the apple & brie chicken sandwich. Credit to Meghan Grant
Shark Bar
Welcome to Shark Bar & Kitchen, featuring fresh-to-table cuisine and seafood with some bite! Locally owned and operated, Shark Bar & Kitchen is located steps from the beach near the iconic Johnny Mercer Pier in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. We aim to provide Wrightsville Beach residents and visitors with a casual, yet sophisticated dining experience highlighting local and regional seafood and produce, with an elevated Mexican twist.
Hidden Grounds Coffee
Enter an unassuming portal in historic downtown to uncover a dog friendly urban oasis fronted by a cozy coffee bar set in a storied building. Grab your beverage of choice, and exit the back door to explore the lush garden's many fanciful seating areas, discovering their many dinosaur mascot decorations.
Little Loaf Bakery and Schoolhouse
Discover a charming 1930s dog-friendly cottage filled with tasty delicacies a short drive from the Cargo District. Choose from breads created with a century-old French sourdough starter, authentic baguettes, or artisanal pastries baked with care. Not to be missed are the bakeshop's stellar selections: cornmeal cookies, honey biscuits, friendship fermented cake, and raspberry crumble-- gluten-free and vegan options are clearly marked. You can also enjoy your selection with a libation, including coffee, wine and champagne in this cozy, inviting oasis or under the trees in their backyard patio. Join this "The Summer I Turned Pretty" Last Dance cake shop filming location for special culinary events like wine tasting and baking classes.
Casa Blanca Coffee Roasters
Experience an oasis of coffee centric tranquility secreted on a busy main artery. Made famous by The Summer I Turned Pretty, this haven has been a locals' favorite since 2019. Offering an approachable elevated drinking and dining experience, they serve freshly roasted specialty coffee (cupping tasting points 80+) as well as full kitchen breakfast and after menus complemented by a curated beer and wine menu. Choose from a variety of seating areas, including their spacious dog-friendly tiled patio, complete with firepits for cooler weather. Join them for special events like Wine Dinners. They'll always "look forward to having coffee with you."