Your Next Stop: Wilmington, NC & Island Beaches

There’s a reason people call Wilmington, NC & Island Beaches the best of the Carolina Coast. With a historic riverfront city and three island beaches just minutes away, this coastal gem offers a vibe for every vacation mindset. Choose to relax among natural oases or make your escape all-original by packing your itinerary with authentic experiences. No matter the season, visitors will want for nothing and leave already planning their next visit.

From the days of pilfering pirates (hear those tales on a Ghost Walk!) to some of today’s hottest film and TV stars navigating the brick-lined streets, Historic Downtown Wilmington is a must. Stroll the nearly 2-mile Riverwalk, with its easy access to more than 200 local boutiques, eateries, galleries and more. Immerse yourself in the thriving film scene with an indie screening at Jengo’s Playhouse or go on a guided or self-guided tour to see the spots where popular shows like “One Tree Hill” and “The Summer I Turned Pretty” filmed. Chase the sunset on a Cape Fear River cruise or charter a private sunset sail. Catch a concert on the river at Live Oak Bank Pavilion or a performance in the historic Thalian Hall, then step inside hidden speakeasies for an after-show cocktail. Explore historic home museums, Battleship NORTH CAROLINA and so much more.

No trip to the coast is complete without some beach time! Wilmington’s three island beaches – Carolina,Kure and Wrightsville – offer a distinct vibe for every traveler. In Carolina Beach, search for the native Venus Flytrap in the waterside state park and then explore the vintage Boardwalk (home to the famous, seasonally open Britt’s Donuts!) while soaking in the town’s colorful character. On the other end of the island, Kure Beach offers visitors the perfect seaside retreat. Reconnect surrounded by natural oases, then explore the historic sites. Looking for more active adventures? A 20-minute drive from downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach offers world-class watersports on its crystal blue waters from SUP and outrigger tours to ASA-certified sailing lessons and everything in between.

Be sure to pack your appetite; Wilmington & Beaches’ culinary scene is every foodie’s dream. Savor fresh, sea- and farm-to-table dishes at hotspots like Seabird, owned and operated by James Beard Outstanding Chef semifinalist Dean Neff, Olivero Kitchen + Cocktails, from chef Sunny Gerhart, a James Beard Best Chef Southeast semifinalist, and Voyce Bistro, the newest culinary venture from chef Keith Rhodes, a finalist for James Beard Best Chef Southeast. Or, opt for those spots the locals frequent. Dig into artisanal grilled cheese at CheeseSmith, signature Southern comfort food at On Thyme and the state’s best burger at Island Burger & Bites. Maximize your coastal bites on a food tour or check out this 3-day foodie itinerary for a self-guided exploration.

With history, arts, culture, active adventures, a thriving food and drinks scene and so much more to uncover, it’s easy to see why Wilmington & Beaches is a destination on the rise. Start planning today for an epic coastal escape!

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