Beaches in Wilmington (Under 40 Minutes by Car)

Location:

Carolina Beach, NC

Highlights:

If you're craving vintage vibes, live music, and a lively seaside scene, you’ll love Carolina Beach. This North Carolina gem blends nostalgic charm with fresh energy — all set against the sparkling Atlantic shoreline.

Recommended For:

Beachgoers, music lovers, families, fun-seekers, and anyone who enjoys boardwalk charm.

What we Love:

"The boardwalk’s a blast — think cotton candy, arcade games, and summer concerts. Add in sand, surf, and a breezy, barefoot vibe — it’s everything a beach town should be."

• Stroll the Carolina Beach Boardwalk—nationally recognized for its nostalgic charm and lively atmosphere.
• Catch live music and local events throughout the year, including summer fireworks and festivals.
• Dance by the shore at the Carolina Beach Music Festival—the only beachside festival of its kind in North Carolina.

Cost:

Beach access is free; event and festival fees vary.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for warm weather, music festivals, and boardwalk events.

Local tips:

Arrive early for parking near the boardwalk in summer. Don’t miss Britt’s Donuts — a local legend since 1939!

Distance:

About 30 minutes south of Wilmington, NC.

How to Get to Carolina Beach:

From Wilmington, take US-421 South. Cross the Snow’s Cut Bridge and follow signs into Carolina Beach.

Address:

Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Phone: 910-458-2999 (Visitor Info)

Location:

Kure Beach, NC

Highlights:

Seeking a quieter, family-friendly beach escape? Kure Beach delivers with small-town charm, scenic serenity, and attractions that blend fun with history. From oceanfront parks and playgrounds to historic forts and aquariums, this coastal gem has a laid-back pace and a lot to explore.

Recommended For:

Families, history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea.

What we Love:

"It’s the kind of beach town where time slows down — swing by the shore, watch the waves roll in, and explore history with the kids all in one afternoon."

• Relax at Oceanfront Park — home to a playground, seaside swings, and stunning views.
• Visit the Fort Fisher State Historic Site — where history meets the sea with scenic trails and Civil War stories.
• Discover marine life at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher — perfect for curious kids and ocean lovers alike.

Cost:

Beach access is free; admission fees apply to the aquarium and some events.

Best time to visit:

Spring through early fall for warm beach days, family outings, and seasonal events.

Local tips:

Visit early for a quiet morning walk on the fishing pier — it’s the oldest on the Atlantic Coast and perfect for sunrise views.

Distance:

About 40 minutes south of Wilmington, NC.

How to Get to Kure Beach:

From Wilmington, take US-421 South through Carolina Beach. Follow signs to Kure Beach and the Fort Fisher area.

Address:

Kure Beach, NC 28449
Phone: 910-458-8216 (Visitor Info)

Romantic Beaches in Wilmington (NC):

Location:

Masonboro Island, NC

Highlights:

Want to truly get away? Masonboro Island offers raw, undeveloped coastal beauty — accessible only by boat and ideal for those craving nature, solitude, and unspoiled shorelines. It’s one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets for primitive camping and coastal wildlife exploration.

Recommended For:

Adventurers, boaters, primitive campers, beachcombers, and nature purists.

What we Love:

"No boardwalks, no buildings — just wild dunes, tidal flats, and the sound of the surf. It’s the kind of place where you unplug, pitch a tent, and soak in the untamed coast."

• Boat to the island from nearby Carolina Beach or Wrightsville Beach — both public and private ramps are available.
• Hike island trails that cross dunes and maritime forest to access remote beaches.
• Camp primitively — select previously used sites to preserve the habitat, and enjoy nights under the stars.

Cost:

Access is free; boating costs and gear rental vary. No permits required for day use or primitive camping.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for boat access, warm weather, and minimal bugs.

Local tips:

Bring all supplies with you — there are no facilities or trash bins. Leave no trace, and avoid disturbing sensitive dune ecosystems.

Distance:

Just offshore from Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach — about 20–30 minutes by boat.

How to Get to Masonboro Island:

Launch from public boat ramps at Trails End Park, Wrightsville Beach, or Carolina Beach. Boats typically land at the north or south sound of the island.

Address:

Masonboro Island, North Carolina
Phone: 910-798-7700 (New Hanover County Parks & Rec)

Location:

Wrightsville Beach, NC

Highlights:

Consistently ranked as one of the top surf towns in the world, Wrightsville Beach combines clear blue waters, wide sandy shores, and an active, social vibe. Just minutes from Wilmington, this beach is a hub for water sports, boutique shopping, and breezy coastal living.

Recommended For:

Surfers, paddlers, beach lovers, social travelers, and weekend warriors.

What we Love:

"From sunrise surf sessions to paddleboarding through the marsh, Wrightsville Beach has a kind of energy that pulls you in — with just enough chill to keep it grounded."

• Surf or swim in the Atlantic — Wrightsville’s waves and clean waters attract beginners and pros alike.
• Explore by kayak or paddleboard, with plenty of rentals and outfitters steps from the beach.
• Shop surf gear and coastal finds at locally loved boutiques, then grab a bite at beachside cafés.

Cost:

Beach access is free; parking is paid in most areas. Rentals and lessons available for a fee.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for the full surf-town experience and warm water temps.

Local tips:

Get there early during summer for easier parking. Look into early morning surf lessons if you’re new to the sport!

Distance:

Just 15 minutes from downtown Wilmington, NC.

How to Get to Wrightsville Beach:

From Wilmington, take Eastwood Road (US-74 E) straight onto Wrightsville Beach via the Heide Trask Drawbridge.

Address:

Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Phone: 910-256-7900 (Town Info)