Planning a trip to Wrightsville Beach this summer? Whether you’re a local looking for some quick fun in the sun or a visitor soaking up the Carolina coast, it’s essential to be informed about the latest beach rules, parking regulations, and safety guidelines.
From renting a boat to catching some waves, kayaking, swimming, and doing other watersports, it is important to stay safe and prepared for your beach days ahead in the Wilmington area.
Here’s your up-to-date guide for navigating our slice of North Carolina’s Intracoastal Waterway in 2025.
Wrightsville Beach Parking
Parking in Wrightsville Beach is plentiful and free if you happen to be in the area during off season. Great for locals, most tourists visit in the summer months and won’t get to make use of seasonal free parking.
In peak season, finding a good parking spot can be brutal… we won’t sugarcoat it!
So, here is what you need to know:
Paid Parking Season:
The Town of Wrightsville Beach parking program is operated by Pivot Parking. Parking areas can be found here.
- Dates: March 1 – October 31
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM for street and non-premium parking; 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM for premium parking
- Rates:
- Street & Non-Premium Lots: $5/hour or $30/day
- Premium Lots (closer to the beach): $6/hour or $35/day
Payment Methods:
- Pay-by-Plate kiosks
- Note that these pay stations only accept Visa, Mastercard, or Discover cards
- Text2Park system
Note: Digital wallet apps like Venmo and Cash App are not accepted.
Parking Passes:
Of course, if you have a longer stay or live in the area, you may want some longer-term parking options. Depending on where your vacation rentals or hotels are located, you may get lucky and be able to walk to the beach.
If not, here are some passes you can check out:
- Weekly Pass: $245
- Residential Permit: $50/year
- Commercial Passes: $200–$650/year
Parking Restrictions:
- Truck and trailer parking is prohibited on Pelican Drive and Causeway Drive from March 1 to October 31, and year-round on Old Causeway Drive, Keel Street, and Marina Street.
- A new emergency lane on North Lumina Avenue has led to the removal of some parking spaces between Causeway Drive and Salisbury Street to improve safety and accessibility.
Beach Access:
The Town has 43 designated public beach access locations. Each access has a designated number.
View the beach map that includes beach access locations, parking, and restroom facilities. There are four public restrooms (accesses 2, 4, 16, 36), a public restroom in Wrightsville Beach Park, and 7 ADA accessible ocean access locations. There is also a public restroom located near the Trolley Stop at the Waynick Blvd./Causeway Drive intersection.
- Use designated public access points to enter and exit the beach.
- Do not cross over dunes or private property.
Beach Town Etiquette
Any beach town local will tell you that etiquette goes a long way when enjoying public beach areas, and its no different when you visit the town of Wrightsville Beach. Make sure to know important information before you begin your vacation to the Carolina Coast.
Beach Equipment
- Do not leave umbrellas, tents, canopies, or chairs unattended overnight.
- Worried about setting everything up and having to take it down for a few days in a row? Don’t be! Our Beach Sherpas will help you with everything from taking your surfboard out of the car to setting up your Shibumi, chairs, and Spikeball. When you’re done, call us back and we’ll get you all packed up and on your way.
- Fill in any holes dug in the sand before leaving to prevent hazards for others and nesting sea turtles.
Pets
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1 to September 30. The beach is simply too crowded to bring your furry friends along during this peak season.
- From October 1 to March 31, dogs are permitted on the beach but must be on a leash.
Alcohol & Smoking
- Alcohol consumption is prohibited on the beach.
- Smoking is not allowed on the beach strand.
Keep it Clean
- Whatever you bring to the beach should be removed from the beach. Check your surrounding area for litter or personal items.
- Please don’t place trash outside full containers. Animals, high tides, and windy conditions can often lead to trash ending up in the waterways.
Surfing
To help ensure the safety of all beach patrons, surfers must be securely attached to their board with a “leash.”
Surfing is always prohibited in the following areas:
- Within 350 feet of Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier (between Beach Access No. 15 and No. 16)
- Within 350 feet of Crystal Pier at Oceanic Restaurant (between Beach Access No. 36 and No. 37)
- Within 100 feet of the Masonboro Inlet Jetty (between Beach Access No. 42 and No. 43)
Biking
Bicycles (excluding those equipped with a throttle) are permitted on the beach strand at any time between October 1 and April 1.
Between April 1 and October 1, bicycles are prohibited on the beach strand between the hours of 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Of course, bikes are permitted on bike paths and roads year-round!
Ocean Safety Tips
Lifeguard Services
- Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Swim near lifeguard stands and heed their instructions.
Flag Warning System
- Green Flag: Calm conditions, exercise caution.
- Yellow Flag: Moderate surf and/or currents; use extra caution.
- Red Flag: High hazard, strong surf and/or currents; swimming not advised.
- Purple Flag: Dangerous marine life spotted; exercise caution.
Rip Currents
- If caught in a rip current, remain calm.
- Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to the beach.
General Safety Tips
- Never swim alone.
- Avoid swimming near piers, jetties, and fishing areas.
- Do not enter the water if you are under the influence of alcohol.
- Stay out of the water during thunderstorms or when lightning is present.
For more information, visit Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue.
Enjoy Wrightsville Beach, NC
Remember that Beach Sherpas are around to help make your beach day even easier! From carrying beach chairs and the equipment for your favorite water sports to recommending a local favorite oceanic restaurant, we’re here for you!
- Arrive Early: Parking spots fill up quickly, especially during events, and on weekends and holidays.
- Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and beach essentials. Remember to take all belongings with you when you leave.
- Stay Informed: Check the weather forecast and beach conditions before heading out.
- Respect Others: Keep noise levels down, and be mindful of your surroundings to ensure everyone enjoys their beach experience.