Memorial Day Weekend is almost here, and if you’re heading to Wrightsville Beach, NC, you’re in for sun, surf, and some seriously good vibes. Whether you’re a local, a first-timer, or one of the many who return year after year, we’ve got everything you need to make the most of the long weekend…Beach Sherpa-style.
Here’s your go-to guide to prepping for an unforgettable Memorial Day at the beach.
Pack Like a Pro, No Need for a Tour Guide
The beach will be buzzing, especially at hot spots like Johnnie Mercers Pier and Access #36, so get your gear together early:
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible!)
- Cooler with snacks and drinks (tip: stop by Robert’s Market or Trolley Stop for quick bites)
- Beach towel, chair, and umbrella
- Portable speaker (but keep the vibes mellow to respect Wrightsville Beach’s noise ordinance)
- Extra phone battery or a solar charger
- Beach games like spikeball or paddleball
- Trash bags so you can pack it in & pack it out!
Pro tip: Use Beach Sherpa to carry your stuff. It’ll make set up easier when you know you skipped the hard part! Especially if you’re parking a few blocks away or hauling for a group.
Beat the Parking Game
Wrightsville Beach is a small barrier island with limited parking—and it fills up FAST:
- Head to public lots at Access #2, #4, #36, or #39 before 10 am
- Use Text2Park to pay for your meter once you’ve found a spot
- Avoid tickets: no parking on the grass or bike paths!
- Staying off-island? Use WAVE Transit’s Beach Trolley from Wilmington
Hit the Water
From surfing to stand-up paddleboarding and beyond, Wrightsville Beach is made for ocean lovers. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Surfing? Beach Access #4 and Johnnie Mercer’s Pier are local favorites
- Rent paddleboards or kayaks from Wrightsville SUP or Blockade Runner’s sound-side dock
- Calm waters at Banks Channel are great for beginner paddlers and swimmers
- Looking to cruise? Try a sunset sail with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours
Always swim near lifeguard stands (they’re fully staffed by Memorial Day weekend!).
Eat, Drink, and Beach Happy
You won’t go hungry with these Wrightsville classics:
- Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill – legendary for its fish tacos and spicy margaritas
- South Beach Grill – a chill spot with Southern seafood
- The Workshop – coffee, smoothies, and shark tooth jewelry in one cool shop
- SUNdays Café – killer cold brew and breakfast burritos on the go
- Dockside & Bluewater – grab a drink and watch the boats go by on the Intracoastal Waterway
If you want to dine on the beach, have your Beach Sherpa grab your basket (takeout bag, whatever) and enjoy a picnic by Access #16 or near the dunes at Access #2.
Memorial Day Events & Happenings
This national holiday is a busy one, and you can expect plenty of live music, fireworks, and events across the beach and in town.
Here are a few things you can be on the lookout for this weekend:
- Enjoy Live Music on the Pier at Port City Marina or Umphrey’s McGee at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, both on May 24.
- Explore the arts scene at Orange Street ArtsFest May 24-25 in historic downtown.
- Board Battleship NORTH CAROLINA for the Memorial Day Observance on May 26.
Also: the town of Wrightsville Beach steps up patrols on Memorial Day. No alcohol, no glass, and no littering on the sand. Let’s help to keep the beach beautiful…especially after our recent beach cleanup!
Make the Most of the Weekend (Without Carrying a Thing)
Beach Sherpa is officially live this Saturday, May 24, and ready to help you have the most chill Memorial Day ever.
We’ll make your beach day better by:
- Meeting you at your car or vacation rental
- Hauling your stuff to your favorite beach access point
- Leaving you at the perfect spot with your umbrellas, chairs, coolers, and all
- Coming back for another trip to take it all back when you’re done
Just book through the app, pick your access point, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Ready to kick off summer right?
Whether you’re catching waves at Johnnie Mercer’s Pier, sipping smoothies at The Workshop, or just laying back and letting Beach Sherpa do the heavy lifting, Memorial Day Weekend at Wrightsville Beach is the place to be.
Let’s ride the wave into summertime!