Over the decades we have been to many very nice beach towns, but never quite found one to equal the Wrightsville vibe, atmosphere or mystique.The nearly 4 miles of beautiful beach is complemented with clean, warm water due to the Gulf Stream presence only 60 miles off shore giving Wrightsville an extended swimming season. There are 2 piers, the Johnny Mercer to the north, an old school shop, grill and fishing pier, and south, the Crystal Pier, more of a destination spot with the excellent Oceanic restaurant on the pier. There are many feels to the island, starting with the southern tip overlooking Masonboro Island, The Crystal pier area, The Blockade Runner Hotel, the main strip over the south bridge, the avenue over the north bridge around Mercer's pier, the Holiday Inn Resort and the far north end of the island at the Shell Island Resort. Just west over the bridges is Harbor Island with a huge athletic complex, Monday's farmers market, concerts, movies, parks, gardens and a 2.5 mile walking loop that has become an institution. Restaurants abound, ocean front, on the intercoastal waterway and all over town as well shops and countless things to do such as fishing, boating etc. Over the past 61 years we have enjoyed coming to Wrightsville Beach and look for any excuse to return, usually a few times a year. Founded in 1899, Wrightsville has seen many changes, but hat's off to the officials who have guided Wrightsville over the years and given us this unique place we have today.

We visited a college in Wilmington so we decided to take a drive to the ocean and Wrightsville Beach did not disappoint. Our teenage son loved it! Highly recommend! But WARNING! Traffic is insane and parking is certainly not easy!