Wrightsville Beach (#2 Access)(Wrightsville Beach - North Beach)

Wrightsville Beach offers a diverse dining scene with several notable restaurants. Bluewater Waterfront Grill is a popular spot for seafood and live music, featuring a large patio overlooking the water. Poe's Tavern is a literary-themed bar serving American food in a cozy atmosphere. For seafood enthusiasts, Oceanic offers high-end dining on the historic Crystal Pier. South Beach Grill provides a dock-and-dine experience with New American fare. Additionally, King Neptune Restaurant & Pirate Bar is a casual choice for seafood with a pirate-themed bar.

These restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone in Wrightsville Beach.

Wrightsville Beach offers a range of accommodations to suit different needs. Shell Island Resort is an all-suite beachfront hotel with pools and a volleyball court. Lumina on Wrightsville Beach - an IHG Hotel provides casual oceanfront lodging with pools and restaurants. For a more relaxed stay, Silver Gull Motel offers beachfront rooms with balconies and kitchenettes. Trailborn Surf & Sound is a modern oceanfront resort with a restaurant and pool bar. Lastly, Sandpeddler Inn & Suites provides bright suites with a pool and free breakfast.

These hotels offer a mix of amenities and services to enhance your beach experience.

Wrightsville Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The beach itself provides restrooms and showers, while nearby parks like Wrightsville Beach Park offer picnic areas and playgrounds. For water sports enthusiasts, rental equipment is available for activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The town also features full-service marinas and scenic cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering a glimpse into the island's history.

Additionally, the beach is surrounded by bays and creeks, providing ample opportunities for fishing and boating. The local shopping village offers a range of boutiques and surf shops, making it easy to find everything needed for a day at the beach or a longer stay.

Wrightsville Beach is renowned for its water sports and outdoor activities. Surfing and stand-up paddleboarding are particularly popular, with several competitive events held throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the four-mile stretch of beach. The Wrightsville Beach Loop is a fitness trail that circles the inner island, perfect for joggers and cyclists.

For those interested in exploring the surrounding waters, narrated harbor cruises and visits to the nearby waterbird sanctuary are available. The beach is also a great spot for fishing, with Crystal Pier being a favorite among anglers. Additionally, the area hosts various events and festivals, adding to the lively atmosphere of the town.

Wrightsville Beach offers various accessibility options to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the area. Many restaurants and hotels provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, restrooms, and seating areas. The beach itself has accessible pathways, and some areas offer beach wheelchairs for rent. Additionally, the town's walkable nature and flat terrain make it relatively easy for visitors with mobility issues to navigate.

However, it's advisable to check with specific establishments for their accessibility features to ensure a smooth visit.

Parking at Wrightsville Beach is generally accessible, with both free and paid options available. Many restaurants and hotels offer free parking lots, while some areas provide free street parking. However, during peak seasons, parking can become somewhat challenging, especially near popular spots like the beach access points and piers. Visitors are advised to arrive early or consider using public parking areas to ensure availability.

The proximity of parking to the beach varies, but most spots are within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to access the beach and surrounding amenities.

Wrightsville Beach has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. It was named after Joshua G. Wright, a prominent figure in Wilmington. The town was a filming location for *Dawson's Creek* and *Weekend at Bernie's*, adding to its pop culture significance. Wrightsville Beach is also known for its vibrant community vibe, attracting people from all over the world seeking a unique lifestyle.

The beach has been recognized in several publications, including being named one of the best beach towns in the U.S. by National Geographic Traveler. Its active island lifestyle and stunning natural beauty make it a beloved destination for beach lovers.

Wrightsville Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The nearby Masonboro Island, part of the NC Coastal Reserve, offers opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. The historic Crystal Pier is a popular spot for fishing and sunset viewing. Visitors can also explore the Intracoastal Waterway via scenic cruises or by renting kayaks or paddleboards.

For those interested in history, the town's development and its role in films like *Dawson's Creek* add to its charm. The Carolina Yacht Club, one of the oldest in America, is another notable attraction, reflecting the town's sailing heritage.