Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach, just a short drive from Wilmington, is a hotspot for water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, and kiteboarding. In fact, this is the beach where North Carolina's surfing began.

The waves come in steadily and are generally gentle, making it ideal for novices. Rental boards and expert training are available at any of the several surf shops located only steps from the beach. Most novices choose multi-day surf camps to obtain a better understanding of the sport and meet other individuals who share their interests. Longboards are used for the majority of surfing, as they are considerably easier to learn. The golden sands and crystal-clear waves are ideal for relaxing and splashing about for people who are less active. The beach is long and wide, with two piers jutting out into the water, ideal for watching the dawn or fishing.