Driving on the beach is not allowed within the Town of Wrightsville Beach. Visitors with a 4WD vehicle who want to drive on the beach can head south to Freeman Park in Carolina Beach, which is roughly a 35-40 minute drive away.
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The most popular destinations for year-round beach driving is the 4WD accessible beaches north of Corolla, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island. Wintertime beach driving is also allowed in central Outer Banks communities including Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills.
Always free and open to the public, the Wrightsville Beach Park is a prime example of how this town remains inviting and always entertaining to locals and new visitors alike.
Because Wrightsville Beach is smaller and closer to central Wilmington, it's packed. At Carolina Beach, you can enjoy a simpler, more secluded beach environment, especially during the off-season. It offers more kid-friendly activities.
Beach driving is allowed north of the paved NC Highway 12 in the Carova area year round. Beach driving may also be allowed south of the ramp in the northern Corolla beaches from October through April. Parking permits are required on the Friday before Memorial Day until 11:59pm on Labor Day.
Here is a quick look at some things to remember while enjoying Wrightsville Beach: Alcohol: Public consumption of alcohol, as well as carrying an open container of alcohol, is prohibited year-round. Bicycles: Bicycling can be a great way to get around the town of Wrightsville Beach.
Wrightsville Beach was established because of the beauty and lure of the ocean and its marshes as a place to fish, sail, swim, surf and recreate on the water.
Overnight camping, driving, and open fires are prohibited within the Town of Carolina Beach. Options for all of these activities are available at other regions, such as Freeman Park and Carolina Beach State Park.
Wrightsville BeachHere, the water is more clear and blue since it is located further north of the Mouth of the Cape Fear River. The waves are better for surfing, bodyboarding, and other surf sports. The restaurants and bars are upscale, and the surrounding neighborhoods are wealthier, with fewer beach rentals.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina's cost of living is 45% higher than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary based on factors such as your career, its average salary and the real estate market of that area.
It is known for being one of the best beaches in North Carolina, having warm climate year round, and wide range of recreational activities. It's only a two-hour drive from Raleigh, North Carolina's capital city, making it one of the most popular day trip destinations state-wide.
Humpback whales have been confirmed in the waters near Topsail Beach, and right whales have been seen swimming past Wrightsville Beach. Both right and humpback whales are endangered, making it illegal to be within 500 yards – or 1,500 feet – of either.
Wrightsville BeachThis particular beach is a favorite among the locals and easily one of the most popular beaches in the area. It's located on a barrier island separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway which is less than 30 minutes from downtown Wilmington.
Medium hazard. Moderate surf and/or currents are present. Weak swimmers are discouraged from entering the water. For others, enhanced care and caution should be exercised.
Wrightsville BeachIt is only 30 minutes from downtown Wilmington, providing easy access to amazing shops and restaurants. One of the highlights of Wrightsville Beach is its hallmark pier, which is known for its amazing sunset views.