If you’re looking for a laid-back coastal escape, Wilmington, NC, and its surrounding beaches are the perfect spot. Spend four days soaking up the sun in Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach, Wilmington, NC and Island Beaches Travel Itinerary, and explore the charming riverfront town of Wilmington. I’ve got the inside scoop on where to stay at the beach, what local eats to try, and the top things to do – and trust me, I’ve tested them all out with my kids! We had the absolute best time exploring this area together, and I’m excited to share our favorite spots with you.
Think coastal vibes, delicious seafood, and a whole lot of relaxation.
Essential Things to Know Before You Go
● Best time to visit Wilmington and Beaches: We went during spring break (early April) and loved how lively yet uncrowded it was. Expect daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s.
● Parking in Wilmington and Beaches: Beach towns in this region require you to pay for parking depending on the season. So please click here to read more about how parking works. I don’t want you to get a ticket.
● Pack for the beach: Don’t forget your kids’ favorite beach toys and plenty of sunscreen.
● Dress to impress (sometimes): Some local restaurants are more upscale than they appear. Check dress codes to avoid feeling underdressed.
Where to Stay in Wilmington and Beaches?
Trailborn Surf & Sound – 275 Waynick Blvd., Wrightsville Beach
Formerly the Blockade Runner Beach Resort, this newly renovated property is uniquely positioned with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the sound on the other. As the only resort in the area offering surf-to-sound amenities, you’ll enjoy private beach access, a lovely oceanfront garden, lawn space, and newly updated rooms perfect for winding down after a day of adventures.
Day 1: Touch down in Wrightsville Beach
8 AM | Depart from Home
● Hit the road early to Wrightsville Beach, NC.
3 PM | Stop by Harbor Way Gardens
321 Causeway Dr., Wrightsville Beach
After a long car ride, stretch your legs at this 1-acre garden oasis filled with native plants, flowers, art, and fountains. Stroll through the Plant it Pink Garden, a reflective space that celebrates breast cancer survivors with seasonal pink blooms.
If you are traveling with kids, don’t miss the kids’ play area.
Shopping in Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is home to an assortment of specialty and gift shops, ideal for picking up mementos or beach essentials. A few noteworthy spots:
Access 16 Beach Shoppe – 26 Seagull Street (8 AM-10 PM)
Annex Surf Supply – 530 Causeway Drive (11:30 AM-6 PM)
Hallelu – 84 Waynick Blvd (10 AM-8 PM)
Sweetwater Surf Shop – 10 North Lumina Avenue (10AM-8PM)
Redix, Inc. – 120 Causeway Drive (8AM-8PM)
The Shed WBNC – 1 N Lumina Ave (10AM-5PM)
4 PM | Check-in at Trailborn Surf & Sound
275 Waynick Blvd., Wrightsville Beach
Drop off your bags and freshen up in your recently renovated room. Enjoy the private beach access if you want a quick walk on the sand.
You may want to enjoy this evening to the fullest because the next three days will be filled with lots of fun things to do in Wilmington and Beaches
7 PM | Sunset Stroll on The Loop (OPTIONAL)
303 West Salisbury St., Wrightsville Beach
Before dinner, walk along The Loop, a 2.5-mile sidewalk fitness trail offering scenic marsh, Intracoastal, and channel views. It’s popular with runners and walkers alike.
8 PM | Dinner at Bluewater Waterfront Grill
4 Marina St., Wrightsville Beach
Enjoy panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway from the covered waterfront patio. Known for baby back ribs, blackened mahi tacos, and fresh seafood, Bluewater is a favorite among both locals and visitors.
● Insider Tip: Make sure that you call at least 7 days before your trip to reserve a table. Also, there’s a dedicated parking lot, but it can fill quickly. Dress a bit nicer here—this spot is more upscale than it seems.
Day 2: Adventures in Kure Beach and Carolina Beach
9 AM | Breakfast at Drift Cafe Wrightsville Beach
114 Causeway Dr., Wrightsville Beach
Before heading to Kure Beach, start your morning with premium coffee or tea from Ceremony Coffee Roasters and a hearty breakfast from Drift Cafe Wrightsville Beach. This place is a local favorite—wait times can reach 50+ minutes, so consider going early or trying to make a reservation. Parking is also limited.
11 AM |North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
900 Loggerhead Rd., Kure Beach
After breakfast, drive about 30 minutes to Kure Beach. The aquarium showcases marine life from salt marshes to the open ocean and features sharks, rays, eels, playful Asian otters, and even a rare albino alligator named Luna. There is also a kids’ play area and affordable snacks (like $2 snow cones!).
Insider tip: Tickets sell out fast during the weekend or peak season, and you must purchase tickets in advance..
Click here to buy your North Carolina Aquarium Tickets.
Lunch in Kure Beach
Choose one of these two popular spots:
- Beach House Burgers – 118 North Fort Fisher Blvd.
Delicious made-to-order burgers, fries, fish sandwiches, and more. Located next to the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, it’s a perfect grab-and-go spot. - Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill – 113 K Ave.
Caribbean-inspired flavors plus local favorites, steps away from the pier. Dine indoors or on their covered patios with an ocean view.
Stroll the Kure Beach Fishing Pier
K Ave., Kure Beach
Originally built in 1923, this is one of the oldest piers on the East Coast. You can fish, take a scenic walk, visit the seasonal concession stand for treats and ice cream, or enjoy the arcade and souvenir shop.
Explore Carolina Beach
A 10-minute drive from Kure Beach, Carolina Beach is celebrating 100 years in 2025. Check out the CB100: Then & Now Walking Tour throughout Carolina Beach’s main business district. Just scan the QR codes to learn how the area has evolved over the past century.
Bonus: Hunt down the vibrant murals around town. The Carolina Beach Mural Project has created 17+ unique artworks depicting coastal themes, local history, and the free-spirited vibe of this laid-back beach destination.
6:30 PM | Sunset Cruise with Island Cruises
100 Carl Winner Dr., Carolina Beach
Set sail along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and Cape Fear River on a two-hour cruise. The first half of the ride is more laid-back and informative, while the second half kicks things up a notch with upbeat music and line dancing.
● Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early, and feel free to bring a small cooler with snacks. The on-board bar serves cocktails.
8:30 PM | Dinner at Havana’s
1 N Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach
Just a block from the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Havana’s is a “polished casual” restaurant set in a 100+ year old beach cottage. Indulge in steaks, seafood, pasta, and salads for a relaxing end to a busy day.
- Afterward, head back to Trailborn Surf & Sound in Wrightsville Beach (about a 25-30 minute drive).
Day 3: A Day in Wilmington, NC
Morning in Wilmington
It’s a short 15-minute drive from Wrightsville Beach to historic downtown Wilmington.
Breakfast at Brunch Thyme
1124 N 4th St., Wilmington
- Black-owned and carry-out focused: Grab classics like shrimp-and-grits or fish-and-grits, plus fun twists like breakfast egg rolls and French toast. This isn’t a sit-down spot, so plan for takeaway.
The chicken and waffles were delicious, in case you want to give them a try!
10 AM | Battleship NORTH CAROLINA
1 Battleship Rd., Wilmington
Step back into WWII history with a self-guided tour of this refurbished battleship. Don’t miss the SECU Memorial Walkway, which is free and open to the public.
- Dress comfortably in closed-toe shoes, and remember there are some tight spaces and steep ladders on board.
Optional: If you want to avoid driving, take the Bizzy Bee Water Taxi from the Riverwalk to the Battleship. The taxi departs near Market Street Dock and Chandler’s Wharf Dock.
Lunch at Bowstring Burgers & Brewyard
1002 Princess St., Wilmington
Located in the Soda Pop District, Bowstring serves craft beer, cocktails, and char-broiled burgers. With plenty of indoor/outdoor seating, games, and a large bar, it’s family- and dog-friendly. Keep an eye out for live music and special events.
Explore the Soda Pop District
An emerging neighborhood just outside downtown Wilmington named after a former
Coca-Cola bottling plant. You’ll find local favorites, unique shops, and a laid-back vibe.
3 PM | Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
814 Market St., Wilmington
This museum offers interactive exhibits, from a 20-foot giant ground sloth replica to hands-on science displays in the Michael Jordan Discovery Gallery. It’s a great way to learn about the region’s past.
Water St., Wilmington
Take a leisurely stroll along this nearly 2-mile walkway by the Cape Fear River. You’ll pass outdoor cafes, unique boutiques, galleries, and multiple opportunities for narrated tours if you want a deeper dive into the area’s history.
6 PM | Dinner at Pilot House Restaurant
2 Ann St., Wilmington
Operating since 1978, this historic waterfront spot serves up Southern-inspired seafood dishes. It anchors the southern end of the Riverwalk, making it convenient for a post-dinner stroll.
Day 4: Final Day to Explore Wilmington and Beaches
Sunrise at the Crystal Pier
Wake up early and drive over to the Crystal Pier in Wrightsville Beach for a breathtaking sunrise. The morning light along the scenic coastline is a must-see photo op.
9 AM | Breakfast at The Workshop
86 Waynick Blvd., Wrightsville Beach
A delightful blend of French-inspired fare (think almond croissants, gourmet espresso, and toasted baguette sandwiches) plus unique handmade fossil jewelry—all collected by the shop owners themselves. Grab a smoothie or linger on the patio.
Near 2698 N Lumina Ave.
Park at Access #2, then walk northward along the shore to find this mysterious mailbox and bench. Locals and visitors leave letters of love, hope, and memories. It’s a one-of-a-kind stop (and photo op) for your final day.
12:30 PM | Masonboro Island Nature Cruise
Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours – 109 Causeway Dr., Wrightsville Beach
Learn about the natural history and ecology of Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. Keep your eyes peeled for shorebirds, dolphins, and maybe even a sea turtle.
Lunch in Wrightsville Beach
Pick one of these coastal options:
Shark Bar & Kitchen – 13 E Salisbury St.
This is a fun, coastal-casual spot near Johnnie Mercers Pier, highlighting locally sourced seafood and produce.
King Neptune – 11 N Lumina Ave.
Open since 1947, serving classic Southern favorites (shrimp & grits, fried flounder) plus heartier entrees like steak or swordfish.
Oceanic Restaurant – 703 S Lumina Ave.
It is known for its panoramic ocean views, coastal-inspired cuisine, and memorable specialty cocktails. Its location by the water makes it a quintessential beach dining experience.
Final Notes
- Plan and reserve wherever possible: From the aquarium to popular brunch spots, reservations or advance tickets help avoid long waits. Trust me, I learned this the hard way.
- Bring comfortable shoes: Whether you’re walking the beaches, strolling the Riverwalk, or touring the Battleship, you’ll be on your feet a lot.
- Have fun and savor the local vibes: These communities have their laid-back charm, so don’t hesitate to explore small shops, street art, and hidden scenic spots off the main path.
Congratulations, you’ve made it through an incredible 4-days in Wilmington, NC and Island Beaches. We hope you enjoy the area’s perfect blend of sun, surf, history, and good eats as much as we did.
