Best Beaches Near Wilmington, NC

Wilmington, N.C., is a coastal gem known for its vibrant culture, historic charm, and stunning natural beauty. One of the most enticing features of this area is its proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. With their Caribbean blue waters and pristine sands, Wilmington beaches offer a perfect escape for locals and tourists alike.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best beaches near Wilmington, highlighting what makes each unique and why they are worth visiting.

Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant atmosphere. This beach is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The Wrightsville Beach Park provides amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and tennis courts, making it an excellent spot for families.

The Johnnie Mercers Pier is a landmark worth visiting, offering fishing opportunities and stunning ocean views. With its wide, sandy beaches and numerous restaurants and shops within walking distance, Wrightsville Beach is a must-visit for anyone exploring Wilmington beaches.

Figure Eight Island is a private, exclusive destination known for its serene environment and luxurious vacation homes. Accessible only by a private bridge, this island offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The beaches here are less crowded, providing a perfect setting for a peaceful day by the sea.

While public access is limited, renting a vacation home on Figure Eight Island lets you enjoy its pristine beaches and calm waters. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to relax in a more secluded setting close to Wilmington beaches.

Bald Head Island is a unique destination, combining natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere. Accessible only by ferry, this car-free island offers a peaceful escape with miles of unspoiled beaches. The island is home to the Bald Head Island Conservancy, which offers educational programs and guided nature tours.

Visitors can explore the island by bike, golf cart, or on foot, taking in the lush maritime forests and historic landmarks such as Old Baldy, North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse. Bald Head Island’s commitment to preserving its natural environment stands out among Wilmington beaches.

Carolina Beach is a vibrant, family-friendly destination with a boardwalk that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, with lifeguards on duty during summer. The nearby Carolina Beach State Park offers hiking trails, a marina, and opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. With its lively atmosphere and diverse activities, Carolina Beach is one of the most popular Wilmington beaches for families and adventure seekers.

Kure Beach is known for its relaxed, small-town vibe and beautiful, clean beaches. The Kure Beach Pier, one of the oldest fishing piers on the Atlantic coast, is a great spot for fishing and enjoying panoramic ocean views. The nearby North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher offers an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area provides additional outdoor activities, including hiking trails, a boat ramp, and a visitor center with exhibits on the area’s history and wildlife. Kure Beach’s charm and natural beauty make it a delightful addition to the list of Wilmington beaches.

Topsail Island is a barrier island known for its quiet, family-friendly beaches and charming coastal towns. The island is home to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, which offers tours and educational programs about sea turtle conservation.

Topsail Beach, located at the southern end of Topsail Island, offers a peaceful, family-friendly beach environment. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and exploring the nearby Missiles and More Museum, highlighting the island’s history and its role in early missile testing programs. The wide, sandy beaches of Topsail Island are perfect for shelling, sunbathing, and beach sports.

Masonboro Island, located just off the coast of Wilmington, is an undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat. This pristine island offers a unique, natural beach experience with untouched dunes, marshes, and tidal creeks. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, shelling, and exploring the diverse coastal ecosystems.

Visitors to Masonboro Island can enjoy solitude and connection with nature, as the island’s undeveloped status ensures a peaceful, crowd-free environment. Masonboro Island is a perfect choice among Wilmington beaches for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, located near Kure Beach, offers six miles of undeveloped shoreline perfect for fishing, birdwatching, and exploring. The area is home to the Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which features Civil War-era fortifications and a visitor center with historical exhibits. The recreation area also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for off-road vehicle access along the beach.

Freeman Park, located on the north end of Carolina Beach, is a popular spot for camping, fishing, and off-road vehicle access. The park’s wide, sandy beaches provide ample space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf. Camping permits are available for those who wish to stay overnight, and the park’s remote location offers a more rugged, adventurous beach experience.

Looking to buy or sell a home in North Carolina? Work with Jeff Waller, who brings 35 successful years of sales experience and a deep passion for coastal living. Having moved to the Wrightsville Beach area and joined Ivester Jackson Coastal Properties - Christie's International Real Estate, Jeff is ready to help you find your dream home. With a commitment to putting customers first, Jeff looks forward to helping you enjoy the incredible lifestyle North Carolina offers.

Contact Jeff Waller today to achieve your real estate goals.