Discover the 9 Best Beaches Between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking for a beach vacation in the southeastern United States, you may want to consider the area between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. These two cities are located about an hour and a half apart and offer a variety of beaches to choose from. A day trip between the two cities is dotted with some of the best beaches on the west coast.

Each of these beaches has its own unique vibe and attractions. Wrightsville Beach is known for its crystal-clear water and lively nightlife, while Carolina Beach is home to the famous boardwalk and amusement park. Kure Beach, on the other hand, is a quieter option with a focus on nature and wildlife.

South of those are from Wilmington a handful more great beaches with something for everything. No matter which beach you choose, you’re sure to find plenty of sun, sand, and fun in this area.

Read on for our north-to-south round up of the best beaches between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach.

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Located just a, it offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and wide sandy beaches, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The waves are generally mild, but can pick up during stormy weather, providing a fun challenge for experienced surfers.

For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of other options. Wrightsville Beach Park offers a playground, picnic areas, and a loop trail for walking or jogging. The town also has a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a marina for boating enthusiasts.

One of the most unique features of Wrightsville Beach is the Johnnie Mercer’s Pier, a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing. The pier extends over 1,200 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views of the coastline and the chance to catch a variety of fish.

Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a popular destination for families and couples alike. This beach is located just 15 miles south of Wilmington and offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the main attractions at Carolina Beach is the boardwalk. The boardwalk is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy classic boardwalk treats like funnel cakes and ice cream, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel. The boardwalk is also home to a weekly fireworks show during the summer months.

For those looking to relax on the beach, Carolina Beach has plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun. The beach is wide and clean, with soft sand and clear water. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months, making it a safe place to swim and play in the water.

If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of water sports to enjoy at Carolina Beach. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and surfboards, or take a guided tour of the area. Fishing is also a popular activity, with plenty of opportunities to catch flounder, red drum, and other local fish.

Overall, Carolina Beach is a great option for those looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation. With its convenient location, family-friendly atmosphere, and range of activities, it’s no wonder that so many visitors return year after year.

Kure Beach

Kure Beach is a charming and peaceful beach town located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach., just 7 minutes south of Carolina Beach. It is a perfect destination for those who are looking for a relaxing and laid-back beach experience.

The beach at Kure Beach is known for its clear blue waters and soft white sand. It is a family-friendly beach with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. The beach is also home to a historic fishing pier that is perfect for fishing, walking, or just taking in the beautiful views.

One of the unique attractions of Kure Beach is the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits and educational programs that teach about the importance of marine conservation.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Kure Beach offers plenty of options. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bikes to explore the area. There are also several parks and nature preserves in the area, including the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and beach access.

Overall, Kure Beach is a must-visit destination for those who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing beach experience. With its beautiful beaches, historic fishing pier, and unique attractions, Kure Beach is a hidden gem that is worth exploring.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a beautiful, family-friendly beach located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach 5 minutes south from Kure Beach. This beach is known for its wide, sandy shorelines, crystal clear waters, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the main attractions of Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Visitors can explore the remains of the Confederate fort that protected the port of Wilmington during the Civil War. The site also includes a museum with exhibits about the fort’s history and the soldiers who fought there.

In addition to the historic site, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Some of the popular activities include swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. The park also has picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy.

For those who love wildlife, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is home to a variety of animals, including sea turtles, dolphins, and shorebirds. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the local wildlife and their habitats.

Overall, Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is a must-visit beach for anyone traveling between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. With its natural beauty, rich history, and fun recreational activities, it’s no wonder why this beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Oak Island

Oak Island is a peaceful beach town

located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. The island is a popular destination for families and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

If you’re following along with our southern route from Wilmington to Myrtle beach, hitting up the beaches along the way, your trip from Fort Fisher to Oak island will be a bit of a roundabout journey, unless you take the ferry from Fort Fisher. Could be a fun adventure!

One of the main attractions of Oak Island is its beautiful beaches. The island has over 10 miles of pristine coastline, making it an ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Oak Island has several parks and nature trails. The Oak Island Nature Center provides educational programs and guided tours of the local flora and fauna. The island also has a skate park and multiple playgrounds for children to enjoy.

When it comes to dining, Oak Island has a variety of options to choose from. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, or grab a quick bite at one of the island’s many cafes and delis. The island also has several grocery stores and markets for those who prefer to cook their own meals.

Overall, Oak Island is a great destination for families and anyone looking for a relaxing beach vacation. With its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and dining options, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Holden Beach

Holden Beach is a small, family-friendly beach town located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach just 30 minutes to the south west of Oak Island. It is known for its pristine beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and charming coastal homes. The town is situated on an island that is only 8 miles long, making it easy to explore and enjoy.

One of the main attractions of Holden Beach is its beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean, wide, and offer plenty of space for visitors to spread out and relax. The water is warm and clear, making it perfect for swimming, fishing, and other water activities. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and a wide range of bird species.

In addition to its beaches, Holden Beach also offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are several parks and playgrounds for children, as well as a number of hiking and biking trails for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The town also has a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it easy to find a great meal or souvenir to take home.

If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing beach vacation, Holden Beach is the perfect destination. The town’s small size and laid-back atmosphere make it a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the North Carolina coast.

Ocean Isle Beach

Ocean Isle Beach is a small, family-friendly beach town located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach,a another quick 30-minute trip to the south west of our previous entry, Holden Beach. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The town is located on a barrier island and is home to just over 500 permanent residents, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds.

One of the main attractions of Ocean Isle Beach is its beautiful beach. The beach stretches for over seven miles and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins, which can often be seen swimming just offshore.

In addition to its beaches, Ocean Isle Beach is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants or take a stroll down the Ocean Isle Beach Pier, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area.

For those looking for outdoor activities, Ocean Isle Beach has plenty to offer. Visitors can go fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the ocean or explore the nearby marshes and waterways. The town is also home to several golf courses, including the award-winning Leopard’s Chase Golf Club.

Overall, Ocean Isle Beach is a charming, laid-back beach town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local attractions, or enjoy outdoor activities, Ocean Isle Beach is the perfect destination for a beach vacation.

Sunset Beach

Only 12 minutes away from Ocean Isle Beach is Sunset Beach, a charming seaside town located in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The beach is known for its calm waters and pristine sand, making it a popular spot for families with young children.

One of the unique features of Sunset Beach is the Kindred Spirit Mailbox, located along the dunes. Visitors can leave notes, poems, and other mementos in the mailbox, creating a sense of community and connection with other beachgoers.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can enjoy fishing on the pier or taking a walk along the beach to watch the sunset. The town also offers a variety of restaurants and shops for visitors to explore.

Cherry Grove Beach

Cherry Grove Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, just 13 miles south off Sunset Beach. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the main attractions of Cherry Grove Beach is its fishing pier, which is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can rent fishing gear and try their hand at catching some of the local fish species, such as flounder and red drum.

For those who prefer to relax on the beach, Cherry Grove offers miles of pristine white sand and clear blue waters. The beach is also known for its natural beauty, with sand dunes and sea oats dotting the landscape.

There are several restaurants and shops located near Cherry Grove Beach, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cherry Grove Marsh, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including herons, egrets, and ospreys.

The Best Beaches From Wilmington To Myrtle Beach: A Side-By-Side Comparison Chart

Name	Activities and Attractions	Vibe
Wrightsville Beach	Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, walking or jogging, shops and restaurants, Johnnie Mercer’s Pier	Popular destination for tourists and locals with a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
Carolina Beach	Boardwalk, shops, restaurants, attractions, fireworks, swimming, sunbathing, water sports, fishing	Family-friendly beach with a range of activities and a convenient location.
Kure Beach	Clear blue waters, soft white sand, historic fishing pier, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, parks, nature preserves	Charming and peaceful beach town with a focus on relaxation and outdoor activities.
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area	Wide sandy shorelines, crystal clear waters, Fort Fisher State Historic Site, museum, swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, picnic areas, playgrounds, wildlife tours	Beautiful family-friendly beach with a rich history and a variety of recreational activities.
Oak Island	Beautiful beaches, fishing, golf, boating, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, parks, nature trails	Peaceful beach town with a focus on outdoor activities and a variety of attractions for visitors.
Holden Beach	Fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, parks, nature trails, restaurants, shops	Family-friendly beach town with a focus on outdoor activities and a laid-back atmosphere.
Ocean Isle Beach	Fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, golf, parks, nature trails, restaurants, shops	Family-friendly beach town with a focus on outdoor activities and a laid-back atmosphere.
Sunset Beach	Fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, golf, parks, nature trails, restaurants, shops	Quiet and peaceful beach town with a focus on outdoor activities and a laid-back atmosphere.
Cherry Grove Beach	Fishing pier, stunning views, Cherry Grove Marsh	Laid-back atmosphere great for nature-lovers