Area Activities

Whether hunting for the perfect seashell, taking surfing lessons, fishing off of Johnnie Mercer’s Pier or running the Loop, Wrightsville Beach is home to a variety of activities. Just over the drawbridge, Wilmington – also known as the Port City – is also home to an abundance of things to see and do.

A Few of Our Favorite Activities

Wrightsville Beach NC Loop
The Loop

The John Nesbitt loop is a scenic 2.45 mile sidewalk pathway popular with Wrightsville Beach locals. The Loop is fun for all ages, and pets are welcome. Located along the trail are three doggy fountains, benches and drinking fountains.

Wrightsville Beach Museum
Wrightsville Beach Museum of History

Free museum of history that showcases a scale model of Wrightsville Beach, circa 1910! Other exhibits include our hurricane history, and the interaction of our natural environment with people on the Island. Located at W. Salisbury Street in Wrightsville Beach.

South End Surf Shop
South End Surf Shop

Hang ten! If you’re a bit more adventurous, South Side Surf Shop provides surf board, paddle board, and kayak rentals. You can rent these items through Shell Island at the Tiki Hut on property, but the shop itself also carries hats, cover ups, bathing suits, and more.

Johnny Mercers Pier Wrightsville Beach NC
Johnny Mercers Fishing Pier

Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier offers amazing fishing, a full service tackle shop with a wide selection of rods and reels, and bait/lures to meet all of your fishing needs. Inside the pier house you will find a delicious grill that is open spring through late fall.

Shred The Gnar Wrightsville Beach NC
Shred The Gnar

Shred the Gnar offers a variety of watersport activities including wakeboarding, wakesurfing, foiling, tubing, or just cruising the Intracoastal Waterway or one of many lakes located in North Carolina.

Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens

Explore 67 acres of formal gardens, wildlife, ten acres of lakes, more than 75,000 azaleas, the tall Airlie Oak which dates back to 1545, and a seasonal butterfly house, located two miles west of Wrightsville Beach.

Downtown Wilmington NC
Downtown Wilmington

Downtown Wilmington offers something for everyone. Shoppers delight in the eclectic mix of locally owned and operated shops. Foodies savor a variety of cuisines served up in trendy bistros and down-home pubs.

NC Aquarium Kure Beach NC
North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher

Connecting visitors with the wonders of nature and aquatic wildlife. Located in Kure Beach along the coast of southeastern North Carolina, near the convergence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River.

Jungle Rapids Wilmington NC
Jungle Rapids

Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park offers many activities such as a waterpark, jungle golf, kids jungle, sky tower, go karts, rock climbing wall, arcade, laser tag, mini bowling and birthday parties.