Vacation rentals in Wrightsville Beach

Find and book unique accommodations on Airbnb

When results are available, navigate with up and down arrow keys or explore by touch or swipe gestures.
1 of 3 pages
1 of 3 pages

Popular amenities for Wrightsville Beach vacation rentals

Stay near Wrightsville Beach's top sights

Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier46 locals recommend
Airlie Gardens234 locals recommend
Blockade Runner Beach Resort12 locals recommend
Oceanic132 locals recommend
Crystal Pier9 locals recommend
Sweet n Savory Cafe67 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Wrightsville Beach

  • Total rentals

    650 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $50 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    16K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    440 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    150 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    240 properties have a pool

Your guide to Wrightsville Beach

Introduction

Encompassing an island as well as its namesake beach, North Carolina’s Wrightsville Beach is one of the oldest established beach communities in the country, first documented in the 1720s. Its origins as a tourist town go back to 1889, when the area railroad company built tracks from neighboring Wilmington across the Banks Channel to transport visitors to the ocean. Bolstered by its natural beauty and yacht club, which is one of the oldest in the country, Wrightsville Beach began to draw regular vacationers, and an entertainment-driven construction boom followed. In the early 1900s, massive hotels opened with dance halls and entertainment, making the small beach town a tour stop for popular big bands. Though Wilmington’s neighboring beaches, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, are well known for watersports and recreation, Wrightsville Beach maintains its family-friendly allure, picture-perfect beach, and centuries-old history as one of the most appealing oceanfront destinations on the East Coast.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach has a subtropical climate characterized by mild winters, with highs in the mid-50s Fahrenheit, and hot, humid summers with highs in the lower 90s. Summers can be sticky, pushing the area’s heat index toward 100 degrees at its peak, perfect for playing in the water. The push and pull of warm Atlantic Ocean waters in relation to storm system tracks puts Wrightsville Beach at risk of tropical storms. If you’re traveling during hurricane season, which peaks in September, pay extra attention to local weather reports.


Top things to do in Wrightsville Beach

Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier

Constructed in the 1930s and nearly destroyed after a series of hurricanes in the 1990s, Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier was rebuilt in 2002 from reinforced concrete and is open 24/7 year-round. The modern pier is plenty wide for the crowds who walk it, and multiple spots accommodate the scores of anglers casting their lines on any given day — or night, as after-dark fishing is popular here.

Wrightsville Beach Park

Located in the heart of town and bordered by water in all directions, this family-friendly park attracts locals for tennis, basketball, soccer, and volleyball, and kids of all ages to its colorful playground. It’s also host to special events throughout the year, including Wrightsville Beach’s summer concert series.

The Loop

Circling the interior of the island, this 2.5-mile fitness trail runs through the heart of Wrightsville Beach in the center of town, straddling the mainland and the namesake beach. It’s especially popular with runners, walkers, and dog-walkers. Fantastic views abound.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Wrightsville Beach?

    Wrightsville Beach enjoys a temperate climate year-round. Summers are warm, with high temperatures around 89°F (32°C), while winters are mild, with lows averaging 35°F (2°C). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, making it a great destination for any season.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Wrightsville Beach?

    Popular activities in Wrightsville Beach include surfing, paddleboarding, and relaxing on the beach. The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History provides insights into the area's past, while the local wildlife can be explored at Masonboro Island Reserve.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Wrightsville Beach?

    The most frequented times to visit Wrightsville Beach are from April to June and September to November. During these periods, visitors can enjoy the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla, a boat parade, and fireworks show, held each November.

  • What are the best places to stay in Wrightsville Beach?

    Popular areas to stay in Wrightsville Beach include the Harbor Island and Shell Island areas, with their close proximity to the beach. For those preferring a quieter setting, the Parmele Isle neighborhood provides a more residential feel.

  • What are the best places to visit in Wrightsville Beach?

    Frequently suggested places to visit in Wrightsville Beach include Johnnie Mercer's Pier, a popular fishing spot, and Wrightsville Beach Park, known for its outdoor concerts and farmers market. The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and the Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center are also often recommended.

  • What are some hiking trails in Wrightsville Beach?

    While Wrightsville Beach is more known for its beach and water activities, Loop Trail offers a nice walk around the town. For more challenging hikes, Carolina Beach State Park, around 27 miles (43 km) away, has several trails.

  • What are some family activities to do in Wrightsville Beach?

    Families in Wrightsville Beach can enjoy beach picnics, surfing lessons, and boat tours. The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, around 28 miles (45 km) away, provide educational entertainment.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Wrightsville Beach?

    Visitors often enjoy day trips to nearby destinations such as Wilmington, known for its historic riverfront, and the charming town of Southport. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and Carolina Beach State Park, both under 30 miles (48 km) away, are also popular day trip choices.

  • Are there Wrightsville Beach vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?

    Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 240 vacation homes with pools in Wrightsville Beach, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Wrightsville Beach?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Wrightsville Beach. Choose from more than 150 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

Destinations to explore