Including Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Southport, Oak Island, Ocean City, Bald Head Island, Sunset Beach

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The DINKs

Living in North Carolina for 20+ years, we often took weekend trips to the coast. We have covered most of it with our favorite area being Wilmington and the surrounding beaches.

Wilmington, NC

Wilmington, NC, offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the coastal ambiance, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. It’s our favorite area probably in the entire US.

• See: Riverwalk and Battleship North Carolina.
• Eat: Sweet & Savory,
• Drink: Local craft brews at Front Street Brewery

Downtown Wilmington

Take a stroll through Wilmington’s historic downtown area, where you’ll find beautifully preserved architecture, charming shops, and cozy cafes. In Wilmington, NC, you’ll find a variety of dining options and entertainment, ranging from historic breweries to coastal cuisine and famous filming locations. Don’t miss the historic Thalian Hall, the Bellamy Mansion Museum, and the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial.

• Thalian Hall – One of the oldest operating theaters in the U.S., hosting plays, concerts, and films.
• Burgwin-Wright House & Gardens – A beautifully preserved 18th-century home with lush colonial gardens.
• Cotton Exchange – A collection of unique shops and cafés inside restored cotton warehouses.

Cape Fear Riverwalk:

Take a leisurely stroll along the Cape Fear Riverwalk, a scenic pathway that winds along the Cape Fear River. Enjoy picturesque views of the waterway, browse local art galleries and boutiques, and stop for a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.

• Scenic Cape Fear Views – Two miles of waterfront boardwalk perfect for sunrise strolls or sunset photos.
• Riverfront Restaurants & Bars – Outdoor patios serving fresh seafood, cocktails, and local craft beer.
• USS North Carolina Battleship – Iconic World War II battleship moored across the river, open for tours.
• Public Art & Live Music – Murals, sculptures, and frequent street performances along the promenade.

Bars & Restaurants

• Front Street Brewery: Located in downtown Wilmington, this historic brewery offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring everything from burgers and sandwiches to hearty entrees.
• Something Fishy Restaurant: For fresh seafood and waterfront dining, head to Something Fishy Restaurant. Situated along the scenic Cape Fear River, this restaurant serves up a delicious selection of seafood dishes, including shrimp, crab cakes, and grilled fish at reasonable prices.
• Sweet n Savory Cafe: Indulge in a delightful dining experience at Sweet n Savory Cafe. Known for its creative twists on classic dishes, this charming cafe offers a menu of breakfast favorites, gourmet sandwiches, salads, and decadent desserts. We always get some peanut butter cookies to-go.
• Causeway Café – Beloved breakfast spot famous for fluffy pancakes and hearty Southern plates. Honestly not our favorite but locals love it.
• Elijah’s – Classic riverfront restaurant serving fresh seafood with scenic Cape Fear River views. Higher end but can’t beat the views.
• Blue Post Billiards – Dive bar with pool tables, live music, and a laid-back local vibe.
• The Blind Elephant – Speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for craft drinks and an intimate, Prohibition-era atmosphere.
• Eternal Sunshine Café – Bright, cheerful café offering creative brunch dishes and excellent coffee.

Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill Filming Locations:

Explore the iconic filming locations of hit TV shows like Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill. Take a self-guided tour to spot familiar sites such as the Riverwalk, the Old Davis Warehouse, and the historic homes of the historic district, which served as backdrops for many memorable scenes.

• Dawson’s Creek Filming Locations in Wilmington, NC – Check out more details on each location.
  • Dawson Leery’s House – Located at 6424 Head Road
  • Capeside High School – The University of North Carolina Wilmington’s Alderman Hall (601 South College Road)
  • Elijah’s Restaurant – (2 Ann Street) “Pacey’s restaurant”
  • Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts – (310 Chestnut Street) “The Rialto” movie theater
  • Hell’s Kitchen – (118 Princess Street) Joey’s workplace (college)
  • Joey’s Wall – City Limits Saloon at 28 South Front St
  • Airlie Gardens – (300 Airlie Road) Jen’s final goodbye.
  • Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park – (5320 Oleander Drive) The arcade and Big Splash Café & Pizzeria.
  • Greenfield Lake – (3rd Street and Carolina Beach Rd) “Burham Lake”

• One Tree Hill Filming Locations in Wilmington, NC
  • Tree Hill High School – Cape Fear Community College’s Joe and Barbara Schwartz Center in downtown Wilmington.
  • Karen’s Café – Situated at 124 South Front Street
  • Tric Nightclub – (121 North Front Street) Peyton’s music venue
  • Naley Bench -(2 South Water Street) this bench overlooking the Cape Fear River is a fan-favorite spot.
  • Greenfield Park – (1739 Burnett Boulevard) Lucas & Peyton’s wedding.
  • Airlie Gardens – (300 Airlie Road) Haley’s mom’s funeral.
  • Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park – (5320 Oleander Drive) parts of the show were filmed at the arcade and Big Splash Café and Pizzeria.
  • Peyton Sawyer’s House – Located at 1901 Chestnut Street

Wrightsville Beach, NC

Just a short drive from downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination for sun, sand, and surf. With its wide, sandy beaches and clear blue waters, Wrightsville Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

• See: Crystal Pier and the Loop walking trail.
• Eat: Fresh seafood at waterfront grills like Oceanic or King Neptune’s.
• Stay: Oceanfront resorts like the Blockade Runner or cozy rentals.

Beach & Pier

• The Johnnie Mercer’s Pier offers fishing opportunities and scenic views of the coastline. It is also home to several surf competitions which are always fun to watch.
• Surfing Competitions: Wrightsville Beach hosts several surfing competitions throughout the year, drawing surfers from around the region and beyond. These competitions take advantage of the area’s consistent waves and vibrant surfing community. Events like the Wrightsville Beach Wahine Classic, which celebrates women in surfing, and various amateur and professional contests attract surfers of all skill levels.

Bars & Restaurants

• The Oceanic restaurant, situated on the pier at Wrightsville Beach, offers a delightful dining experience with its Cajun pasta, which was not only delicious but also a great value. Alongside, their fried oysters were quite tasty, though portions were somewhat limited. Overall, it’s a charming spot to enjoy good food with a view of the ocean.
• King Neptune

Carolina Beach, NC

Located south of Wilmington, Pleasure Island encompasses Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, two charming seaside destinations.

Carolina Beach pairs classic seaside nostalgia with year-round adventure. Its vintage boardwalk buzzes with amusement rides and live music in summer, while nearby Carolina Beach State Park offers hiking trails and rare Venus flytraps. Families and couples alike find a mix of laid-back charm and lively nightlife. Visitors can enjoy fishing off the pier, surfing, or simply relaxing on the sandy shores.

• See: Carolina Beach State Park, Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and Freeman Park for 4×4 beach driving.
• Eat: Britt’s Donut Shop for iconic glazed treats, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar for casual seafood, and Soul Flavor for coastal Southern plates.
• Drink: Fat Pelican with its legendary walk-in cooler, or Good Hops Brewing for local craft beer.
• Stay: Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach & Fishing Pier

Carolina Beach boasts a wide, gently sloping shoreline with soft sand and rolling waves ideal for swimming, surfing, and long walks at sunrise. Lifeguard stands, seasonal rentals for umbrellas and chairs, and plenty of nearby parking make it an easy family favorite. Just north of the boardwalk, the Carolina Beach Fishing Pier stretches out over the Atlantic, offering sweeping ocean views and some of the best surf fishing on the island. Whether you’re casting a line, grabbing a cold drink at the pier’s tiki bar, or snapping photos of pelicans and dolphins, it’s a quintessential Carolina coast experience.

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk

The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is a vibrant and lively waterfront attraction known for its nostalgic charm and family-friendly atmosphere. Stretching along the scenic coastline, it offers a variety of entertainment options such as amusement rides, arcade games, and souvenir shops. Visitors can stroll along the wooden boardwalk, enjoy live music performances during the summer months, and indulge in classic beach treats like ice cream and funnel cakes.

Kure Beach, NC

Just south of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach is quieter and deeply rooted in coastal history. Its broad sands meet maritime forest, and the area’s military past comes alive at Fort Fisher. Nature lovers will appreciate uncrowded beaches and the well-curated North Carolina Aquarium.

• See: Fort Fisher Historic Site, NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, and Kure Beach Fishing Pier.
• Eat: Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill for Caribbean-inspired seafood and Freddie’s Restaurant for classic Italian-seafood fusion.
• Drink: Bud & Joe’s Sandbar or SeaWitch Café & Tiki Bar for relaxed beachside cocktails.
• Stay: Cozy vacation cottages or waterfront inns like Darlings by the Sea.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area:

Situated at the southern tip of Pleasure Island, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers pristine beaches, salt marshes, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the remains of the Civil War-era Fort Fisher, learn about local wildlife at the visitor center, or enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and nature walks along the scenic trails.

Ocean Isle Beach, NC

Ocean Isle Beach, located in Brunswick County, North Carolina, is renowned for its serene coastal beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. This barrier island stretches for seven miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering pristine beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The island is known for its relaxed vibe, making it a popular destination for families and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

In addition to its beaches, Ocean Isle Beach boasts a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy fishing from the pier or chartering a boat for deep-sea fishing excursions. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at several golf courses in the area. Nature lovers can explore the nearby marshes and tidal creeks, which are home to diverse wildlife and bird species.

• See: Ocean Isle Beach Pier, Museum of Coastal Carolina, and local marsh kayak tours.
• Eat: The Isles Restaurant & Tiki Bar for oceanfront dining, Drift Coffee & Kitchen for breakfast, and Causeway Gourmet for easy takeout.
• Stay: Spacious beach houses or condos like The Islander Inn.

The Beach

The town of Ocean Isle Beach itself offers charming shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors, perfect for strolling and enjoying local flavors. Events such as concerts, festivals, and art shows often take place during the summer months, adding to the vibrant community atmosphere.

Oak Island, NC

Oak Island, located along the southern coast of North Carolina, is a beloved destination known for its expansive beaches, family-friendly environment, and relaxed coastal charm. Stretching over 12 miles, Oak Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

• See: Oak Island Lighthouse, Ocean Crest Pier, and the quiet trails of Middleton Park for fishing, views, and easy strolls.
• Eat: Fresh seafood at Island Way, casual favorites like Shagger Jacks, or classic coastal bites at The Lazy Turtle.
• Drink: Beachfront cocktails at Chaser’s or local brews at the mellow Oak Island Drafthouse.
• Stay: Oceanfront vacation rentals

The Beach

The island’s beaches are its main draw, featuring wide stretches of soft sand ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. Oak Island Beach is known for its uncrowded shores, making it a peaceful retreat for beachgoers seeking tranquility. The warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean also provide opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, and boating.

Bald Head Island, NC

Accessible only by ferry, Bald Head Island delivers pure escape. Car-free streets lined with maritime forest lead to secluded beaches and the historic Old Baldy Lighthouse. It’s a haven for birders, cyclists, and anyone craving quiet luxury.

• See: Old Baldy Lighthouse, Bald Head Woods Maritime Forest Preserve, and miles of pristine beaches.
• Eat: Delphina Coastal Cuisine for fresh island seafood and Sandpiper Coffee & Ice Cream for casual bites.
• Drink: Sunset cocktails at Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub or the Bald Head Island Club Verandah.

Southport, NC

With moss-draped oaks, historic cottages, and a bustling harbor, Southport is equal parts postcard charm and movie-set magic. Stroll the riverfront, browse antique shops, and watch shrimp boats return at dusk.

• See: Southport Historic District, Waterfront Park, and the NC Maritime Museum.
• Eat: Provision Company for fresh shrimp and conch fritters, Oliver’s on the Cape Fear for upscale riverfront dining, and Fishy Fishy Café for casual harbor views.
• Drink: American Fish Company for live music and craft cocktails or Silver Coast Winery Tasting Room for local wines.

Holden Beach, NC

Holden Beach, nestled on the southern coast of North Carolina between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, is renowned for its serene atmosphere, pristine beaches, and family-friendly environment. As a barrier island, Holden Beach stretches for about 8 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger beach resorts.

• See: Stroll the Holden Beach Fishing Pier, bike the scenic causeway, or explore the Intracoastal Waterway by kayak.
• Eat: Fresh-catch seafood at Provision Company or Dock House Seafood, plus casual bites at Patronies Pizza.
• Drink: Relax with a beachside cocktail at Castaways Raw Bar & Grill or grab a local craft beer at Mermaids Island Grill.
• Stay: Oceanfront vacation homes, cozy cottages, and small inns with easy beach access.

THE Beach & Pier

Holden Beach is known for its relaxed and residential feel, with many vacation rental homes and cottages lining the shore. There are no high-rise hotels or commercial developments, maintaining the island’s laid-back charm and pristine natural beauty.

Sea Biscuits

In 2022, sand dredged from the sea floor was relocated to Holden Beach, bringing fossils previously submerged to the shore, where they can now be discovered by shell collectors. Among these are sea biscuits, once inhabitants of seagrass beds in the Caribbean and beyond but now extinct in the Carolinas. These particular fossils found on Holden Beach date back 34 to 55 million years to the Eocene epoch, offering a glimpse into ancient marine life.

Sunset Beach, NC

Sunset Beach, located along the southern coast of North Carolina, is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. This barrier island stretches for about 3 miles and offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking a relaxed beach experience.

• See: Walk the Sunset Beach Pier, explore the Kindred Spirit Mailbox on Bird Island, or enjoy the views from the Sunset Beach Waterfront Park.
• Eat: Savor fresh seafood at Twin Lakes Seafood Restaurant or grab casual bites at Mavericks Java or Fibber McGees.
• Drink: Enjoy cocktails with a view at Boundary House Lounge or craft beers at 59 Causeway Grill.
• Stay: Beachfront vacation rentals

THE Beach & Pier

The main attraction of Sunset Beach is its wide, sandy shoreline, which is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and shell collecting. The beach is known for its gently sloping dunes and calm waters, making it suitable for swimming and family-friendly activities. The island’s fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers, offering opportunities to catch a variety of fish species.

Bird Island:

One of the unique features of Sunset Beach is Bird Island, a coastal reserve located at the western end of the island. This undeveloped sanctuary is home to diverse bird species and offers pristine natural habitats for wildlife viewing and nature walks. Visitors can access Bird Island via a scenic walk along the beach or by kayak from the mainland.

The Kindred Spirit Mailbox

The Kindred Spirit Mailbox is a famous landmark located on Bird Island, North Carolina. It’s a weathered mailbox nestled among the sand dunes where visitors leave handwritten notes, letters, and reflections. This unique attraction has become a symbol of connection, hope, and shared human experiences, attracting visitors who come to read the messages and add their own. The mailbox and the serene surroundings of Bird Island offer a peaceful and contemplative experience for those who visit.

Summary

The DINKs, seasoned with two decades of living in North Carolina, ventured extensively across the Outer Banks, uncovering treasures from Corolla to Hatteras Island, with side trips to Ocracoke and Roanoke Islands. Their coastal journey was complemented by frequent escapes to Wilmington and its surroundings, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. On the other hand, the Family’s focus on the Outerbanks like provided them with a quieter, more relaxed coastal experience. Both groups indulged in local cuisine and coastal charm, showcasing the rich diversity and natural beauty that North Carolina’s coastal region has to offer.

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1. Wilmington, NC
2. Wrightsville Beach, NC
3. Carolina Beach, NC
4. Kure Beach, NC
5. Ocean Isle Beach, NC
6. Oak Island, NC
7. Bald Head Island, NC
8. Southport, NC
9. Holden Beach, NC
10. Sunset Beach

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