The 5 Best Beaches Near Wilmington, NC!

Although Wilmington, North Carolina has a wealth of fun activities and attractions right on its doorstep, there’s no denying that the allure of the beach is an irresistible treat. Fortunately, there are several great beaches near Wilmington, NC where you can enjoy basking on the sand, beach games, family fun, watersports, romantic strolls, oceanside dining, and more.

Wilmington Is In Close Proximity To The Best Beaches in NC!

Wrightsville Beach Located less than nine miles from Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is one of North Carolina's most popular spots for watersports, family gatherings, and fishing charters. Named one of the top surfing towns by National Geographic, surf lessons are a great way to enjoy the world-class waves. Boats of all kinds are abundant in the crystal-clear waters here; from fishing charters to scenic cruises to racing sailboats, you won't need to look far if you want to experience the coast from a different perspective. This walkable town also offers great boutiques, surf shops, and charming nooks. Enjoy everything from resort-style amenities and spirited nightlife, to beach taverns and oceanfront grills.   Carolina Beach Located just 15 miles from Wilmington, laid-back Carolina Beach has a vintage boardwalk full of colorful local shops, amusement rides, live music, and delicious restaurants. Technically part of a state park, Carolina Beach also has a trail leading to an overlook with gorgeous Cape Fear River vistas. A series of wooden walkways rise above the sand and prairie grass to offer views of the surrounding scenery. If you're an angler, spend some time at the marina exploring your options for a fishing charter. Try a hot donut from famous Britt’s Donut. Experience the nightlife. Get your groove on at the Carolina Beach Music Festival, NC’s largest and only music festival held on the beach. There’s only one Carolina Beach.   Kure Beach Located just 18 miles from Wilmington, Kure (pronounced “Cure-ee”) Beach is the small beach town you remember from when you were a kid. Historic Kure Beach is home to the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic Coast, an oceanfront park, the state aquarium, a historic fort, classic seaside charm, and an attempted attack by a Nazi sub. (In 1943, a local factory was supposedly targeted by a German U-boat. Fortunately, the shells the U-boat fired missed and ended up in the Cape Fear River.) Today, Kure Beach is a popular and family-friendly coastal retreat. From the seaside swings and playground at OceanFront Park to the alligator feedings and diving exhibits at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, there’s always something fun and interesting going on.    Masonboro Island For a more nature-centric experience, visit Masonboro Island, a large undeveloped barrier island located about five miles southeast of Wilmington. Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Intracoastal Waterway to the west, Masonboro Inlet to the north, and Carolina Beach Inlet to the south, Masonboro Island can only be reached by boat. Visitors use trails to walk across the island to access the beach. Visitors may use beach areas, open tidal flats, and areas between the dunes as long as the vegetation and habitat are not altered. Primitive camping is allowed on the island, but visitors need to pack out everything they bring in. All personal property must be removed from the island within 48 hours.    Topsail Beach/Surf City A bit further from Wilmington, Topsail Beach and Surf City are throwbacks to another time, offering clean and uncrowded beaches, a marina, and a quiet, low-key vibe. Where pirates once laid in wait for merchant ships – with only their topsails visible – today you’ll find a tranquil region loved by anglers, boaters, and sea creatures alike. Surf City is home to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and a surprising choice of dining and shopping opportunities. Topsail Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway separate the island from the mainland. This narrow body of water provides the perfect place for canoeing, kayaking, water skiing and fishing.  

Our Homes For Sale In Wilmington, NC Are Selling Fast!

Country Walk | Winnabow, NC. This beautiful community has classic small-town southern charm with easy access to Wilmington and Southport. Located a short drive from several beaches, there are an array of floor plans to meet everyone's needs.   Mimosa Bay | Sneads Ferry, NC. This gated community is just minutes from Topsail Island & Surf City. Set amid 300 acres of lakefront and marsh front with incredible amenities, Mimosa Bay is located five miles from Camp LeJeune and four miles from beautiful, sandy beaches!   The Colony at Towne Pointe | Jacksonville, NC. This charming community is minutes from Camp Lejeune and a short drive to shops, restaurants and local beaches. Enjoy carefree living in beautifully appointed townhomes, with a pool and pavilion.   The Cottages at Olde Georgetowne | The Groves at Olde Georgetowne | Bolivia, NC. Olde Georgetown offers easy access to Southport, as well as a quick trip to Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Featuring a gatehouse, ponds, and wooden bridges, this community is a serene place to call home.  

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