Located just east of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach consists of two different islands that are separated by water. The first settler bought land in 1725, though Wrightsville Beach wasn't incorporated as a town until 1899. Increased access to the island became possible in the late 1800s when the government built reliable roads and bridges to the islands. In the early 1900s, the first beach resort was constructed, called the Lumina, which attracted entertainers, tourists, and locals in the 1930s and 1940s. Although the Lumina closed in 1972, dozens of resorts, condominiums, and motels have opened since then.
Today, Wrightsville Beach, NC, has a reputation as a small island town with beachfront resorts, historical museums, watersport rentals, and unique shopping opportunities. No matter why you plan to visit Wrightsville Beach, it's key that you find the right hotel to match your trip's needs.
When to Visit Wrightsville Beach, NC
Most people choose to visit Wrightsville Beach in the summer months, when the weather is the warmest. This is when summer events are scheduled, including interesting farmers markets and art festivals. However, because this is the most popular time of year, it can be more difficult to find the right hotel in the summer months. Hotels are more expensive and rooms book fast, so it's important to make your plans as soon as possible to get the best deal on your hotel room reservation.
If you're more flexible with the timing of your plans, you can plan your trip to Wrightsville Beach in the early fall months, from September to early October. You'll save substantially on the cost of your hotel room without compromising on the excellent weather. Not only will the hotels cost you less, but traveling out of the busy season should reduce the cost of your airfare and restaurant bills, too.
The temperature will still range from lows in the 60s to highs in the 80s, so you'll be comfortable spending time outside, in the water, and at the beach. The period from July to September is also the part of the year in Wrightsville Beach, so if you plan to travel during this time, make sure to pack your rain gear, including a raincoat.
Winters are rather mild in Wrightsville Beach, with lows in the 30s and highs in the upper 50s. While these conditions may not be conducive to participating in water sports such as surfing and kayaking, you can still enjoy a day cruise around the island or shop in a variety of locally owned shops. Since the weather isn't always beach-friendly in the winter months, this is the best time to travel to Wrightsville Beach if you want a great deal on a hotel room and plan to explore the town.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Wrightsville Beach, NC:
Wrightsville Beach by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Wrightsville Beach, NC. You can use these charts to evaluate the cheapest seasons to book in Wrightsville Beach for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in Wrightsville Beach, NC
As a desirable, beachfront area, Wrightsville Beach has its share of luxury hotels and resorts to choose from. For a historic, boutique style resort, consider the Blockade Runner Beach Resort. The hotel is more than 50 years old, though you'd never know that because of its modern, renovated rooms. You'll enjoy walking through pristine gardens and spending time swimming in the resort's large outdoor pool. Plus, there's a fitness center, boat slip, and walking access to the beach.
If you want walking access to the harbor and the ocean, Summer Sands Suites is the choice for you. You'll be able to walk to relaxing restaurants, take part in the local nightlife, or shop at nearby retail spots. The hotel features non-smoking rooms with king-sized beds and a Murphy bed to double the sleeping space. If you'd rather swim at the hotel, you can take a dip in the hotel's saltwater pool.
Named after the historic hotel, One South Lumina is a centrally located hotel with beachfront access. Each room has a master suite with your choice of a queen or king-sized bed, a dining area, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, an included washer and dryer, and two adult-size bunk beds. Each room can easily accommodate four guests.
Affordable Hotel Options in Wrightsville Beach, NC
3 Star Average Prices: $153.08
Fortunately, there are more affordable hotel options in Wrightsville Beach, NC. Sandpeddler Inn & Suites is located on the south end of Wrightsville Beach, across from local shops and restaurants. You'll enjoy free parking, Wi-Fi, and a continental breakfast each day of your trip. There are on-site laundry facilities, a fax machine, and a copier available, which is convenient for business travelers trying to save money on these amenities. If you bring your own watersports gear or bike, you can stow this equipment near the beach in a ground level storage area.
If you're looking for an affordable beachfront hotel off the Atlantic Ocean, the Silver Gull Motel is an ideal option. The hotel is located on the beach, within walking distance from local restaurants, unique shops, and Johnnie Mercer's Pier. You can choose from rooms with one king bed, one full bed, or two full beds. Some of the rooms feature a sitting area facing the ocean. You'll have access to a kitchenette, full size refrigerator, microwave, and kitchen essentials such as pots and pans. Cooking for yourself, at least some of the time, can considerably reduce your trip's cost.
2 Star Average Prices: $115.32
Best Discounts in Wrightsville Beach, NC
If you know strategies about where to stay, you can save more money during your trip to Wrightsville Beach, NC. At the Holiday Inn Resort Wrightsville Beach, you can earn points through the IHG® Rewards Club, which can be used for free nights at select hotels. As a kid-friendly hotel, there are on-site activities created specifically for kids.
For a great discount, the Shell Island Resort is a surprising option. Despite being one of Wrightsville Beach's premier luxury resorts, the Shell Island Resort offers tremendous savings in its resort packages. For instance, you can choose the Wine & Dine Package that includes a discounted room rate and a dining voucher. Plus, you'll have your own private balcony, kitchenette, and free Wi-Fi. If you want to get out of your room, spend time at the hotel's oceanfront restaurant or fitness studio.
Best Value Options in Wrightsville Beach, NC
Wrightsville Beach has a handful of mid-range hotels that balance value and amenities. Harbor Inn offers beautiful, contemporary-style rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and kitchens. The hotel also has a boat dock, an outdoor pool, and a sundeck with comfy lounge chairs.
If professional and friendly service is what you're looking for, The Surf Suites is a great option. All of the suites feature private bedrooms, fully stocked kitchens, free high speed Wi-Fi, and a private balcony or patio with an oceanfront view. Relax in the hotel's pool or gazebo, or on the sundeck.
Top Wrightsville Beach, NC Destinations
Because of its small size, any hotel you choose to stay in will place you near all of the town's best destinations. If you enjoy being outdoors, you can plan to enjoy the water with a rented kayak, surfboard, or boat. If you want to run or cycle, The Loop, which is a three mile trail that goes around the island, is the place to go.
Wrightsville Beach is an ideal place to watch and photograph birds. There are hundreds of birds that call this area home, including Least Terns and American Oystercatchers. If you want to see the birds, plan a trip during the spring and summer so you can watch the birds nest.
With more than 100 years of history, there are plenty of museums and historic sites to check out on Wrightsville Beach. At the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History, you can go on a self-guided tour of the area to learn about the area's history. You can learn about the "Mailbox on the Beach," where people have left anonymous love notes on the north end of the beach for years. It's become a Wrightsville Beach landmark worth exploring for its positivity and human spirit.
In addition, Wrightsville Beach offers shoppers a wide range of beach shops, such as Carolina Paddleboard, Co., The Fisherman's Wife, and the Aussie Island Surf Shop. You can find unique gifts and top brands in surf gear at the shops. When you're done shopping, you can go to one of the beach's ice cream shops or restaurants for something to eat.
When you travel to Wrightsville Beach, it's time to relax and play on the beach. With such a quaint and historic town, you'll benefit from locally inspired restaurants, beach shops, and history museums. Wrightsville Beach is a popular tourist spot for a reason. Whether you need a luxury resort or a budget hotel, you can find the ideal hotel that matches what you're looking for.
FAQs about hotels in Wrightsville Beach
How much does a cheap hotel in Wrightsville Beach cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Wrightsville Beach can be as cheap as $115.32 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Wrightsville Beach cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Wrightsville Beach has been $153.08 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Recent traveler reviews of Wrightsville Beach, NC
Below are reviews of the city of Wrightsville Beach, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Very Clean Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
The beach was very clean and the city was very friendly.
Mary H., from 10-Oct-2023
"Wrightsville Beach & Great Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
I liked Wrightsville Beach! We found several restaurants that were great, such as Oceanic. I would be delighted to return.
James A., from 15-Sep-2023
"Very Clean & Safe City"
Score
4.0 / 5
Wrightsville Beach was a very clean city. Also, the city feels safe as you drive or walk throughout it.
Tonya J., from 04-Sep-2023
"Great place to stay, great places to eat."
Score
5.0 / 5
Great restaurants.
Pamela E., from 10-Jun-2022
"Island community with everything within walking distance."
Score
4.0 / 5
An island community with everything within walking distance.
Lynn T., from 13-May-2022
"A lot of Restaurants "
Score
4.0 / 5
Variety of good places to eat.
Charles B., from 20-Jul-2019
"Easy To Find Something To Do"
Score
4.0 / 5
We had a nice visit to Wrightsville beach. A very pretty area with an abundance of water sport activities.
Rebecca M., from 13-Apr-2015
The average traveler rating of the city of Wrightsville Beach, NC shown above is
4.1 out of 5 based on 7 reviews