Wrightsville Beach is a delightfully welcoming, relaxing beach town fit for visitors of all ages. Imagine soaking in the coastal air at sunset after a long day on the beach. There’s truly nothing like it. Finding the best places to stay in Wrightsville Beach might feel daunting for a first-time visitor, or even seasoned regulars looking to switch up their stay.
We’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, so you don’t have to. No guesswork, just recommendations from our team of local Sherps! On a long, thin island like ours, you’ll be likely to have a view of the ocean, the waterways that neighbor the mainland, or perhaps both.
So, without further ado, let’s dive on into Wrightsville Beach hotels and accommodations just a stone’s throw from Lumina Avenue, which cuts through the whole length of the island. You’ll be familiar with the stunning views of coastal North Carolina in no time.
Shell Island Resort: All Oceanfront Suites
At the very top of the WB stretch, you’ll find a resort whose suites fully overlook the ocean. You heard that right, all 153 guest rooms have an ocean view. How’s that for luxury?
If the view isn’t selling you just yet, note that they also have balconies and kitchenettes so you can take the reins when it comes to your trip. With indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, beach volleyball, and an on-site restaurant that also happens to overlook the ocean, guests are in for a truly coastal treat.
- Where: 2700 N Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
- Amenities & target guests: This resort is ideal for families or couples seeking resort-level amenities and direct beach access onto a private stretch of beach.
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach (IHG)
Originally built to showcase the wonder of electricity, Lumina was named for its ability to help sailors navigate, offering a shining light along the NC coast. This reimagined resort has three pools, two hot tubs, ocean-view rooms available, lovely dining options, and is family-friendly.
- Where: 1706 N Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
- Amenities & target guests: Great for families wanting resort vibes with pools and beach access.
Trailborn Surf & Sound
Formally known as the Blockade Beach Runner Resort, this recently reinvented resort is fun, trendy, and inviting. You’ll find that they offer surf lessons and kayaking, along with fun events like yoga and oyster roasts. Take your pick of a room with a view of either the ocean or sound, but know that you’ll be seeing the water regardless!
This spot also just so happens to be home to one of our favorite breakfast places in Wrightsville Beach and has a wonderful poolside bar.
- Where: 275 Waynick Blvd, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
- Amenities & target guests: Great for active travelers, surfers, and those looking for a lively resort atmosphere.
Silver Gull Motel
Looking for oceanfront accommodations on a budget? This may just be your spot! With lower prices but high ratings, you can enjoy a balcony over the ocean without breaking the bank. Their self-parking, laundry facilities, and free Wifi add to the charm of this quaint but well-run motel.
- Where: 20 E Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
- Amenities & target guests: Suited for couples or solo travelers wanting simple, clean, beachfront lodging at a great price.
Vacation Rentals & Condos
Hotels, resorts, and motels are always great options for those looking for specific amenities, service, and the potential to earn reward points. However, if you’re only focused on finding a great location in this walkable beach town, vacation rentals offer a stay that often rival the best hotels.
Renting houses is a fun way to feel at home in this quaint coastal town, and you’ll have plenty of fun memories of your ‘beach house’ even if it’s only yours for the week.
Options like The Islander, The Spoleto by Mira-Mar, and Station 6 can be booked on various travel platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, Expedia, and more. Many of these options come in the form of full condos with kitchens, balconies, privacy, and direct beach access.
- Where: Across the island, off of Lumina Avenue
- Amenities & target guests: Ideal for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home stay with plenty of space and privacy.
Tips on Choosing the Right Place
When it comes to picking a place for your stay, consider other factors of your visit. Do you want to go shopping and hit the downtown Wilmington areas, too? Maybe you’re just set on a quiet place with a good breakfast where you can later turn in for an early night.
If it’s entertainment with friends, like a spa day followed by a nice dinner at a hotel located right on the water, or perhaps a romantic weekend getaway without the kids, you’ll find your place.
No matter what details you’re looking for during your trip, WB has it all.
- Pools & Amenities: Prefer full-service? Choose resorts like Shell Island, Holiday Inn, and Trailborn.
- Budget-Friendly: Silver Gull and condo rentals offer affordable beachfront stays without sacrificing quality.
- Group/Family Trips: Condos provide space and kitchens; resorts add family-oriented activities.
- Activity Level: Surf camp or kayaking enthusiasts should go with Trailborn! Although we do want to note that there are plenty of other surf camps and lessons available across the Wrightsville Beach area if you’re looking to seek them out separately from your accommodation.
Whether you’re seeking luxurious oceanfront convenience, family-friendly resorts, budget stays with a view, or spacious vacation rentals, Wrightsville Beach delivers. Speaking of delivering… we’d be remiss if we didn’t remind you that you can increase relaxation and comfort on your trip by letting us carry your stuff!
Hire a Sherp on our app today and do away with any hassle on the beach. If you’re unfamiliar, Wrightsville Beach is infamous for having some long access points and tricky walking paths, so anyone with families, mobility issues, or some really big coolers can benefit from an extra hand!