Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is a town in New Hanover County, North Carolina, United States. Wrightsville Beach is just east of Wilmington and is part of the Wilmington metropolitan area. The population was 2,473 at the 2020 census. Wikipedia.
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Top places to visit

4.5
(4871)
Mentioned on 
Fishing pier
Grill
Gift shop
Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier is a renowned spot in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. It's the only concrete fishing pier in the state and one of the longest in the Cape Fear region, extending over 1,200 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. Originally built in the 1930s, it was reconstructed after being damaged by hurricanes. The pier now offers amenities such as an on-site grill, bait and tackle shop, gift shops, and ample space for fishing enthusiasts.
This was a beautiful sight and I love the sunset view. I loved seeing the rise up and the cool breeze that came along. One of my favorite things about this spot is that the church meet there each morning and pray for each other and those in need. It makes this location even more special. JESUS stands out really nice on shorefront.
Warrior C — Google review
We have parked in the adjacent lot every time we come to the beach. It is paid parking but easy to get to and get a spot. I don’t always go into the store/pier but I did this visit. The store had great food options and even non alcoholic beer (which I enjoyed!). I’ll stop in hungry next time as the food prices were very reasonable and looked good. The pier is beautiful and adds nicely to the landscape.
Monica F — Google review
Nice fishing pier at the beach where you can find the oasis of shade under bright sunlight over there! We sat under neath and it was just beautiful place to get ocean breezes to ourselves! Beautiful location, you’ll have to pay $2 dollars to walk on the pier or to do fishing there. We had a good time! :)
Mr. D — Google review
Pier Perfection: The Essential Beach Day 🏖️ ​Absolutely loved our visit! My daughter and I spent a wonderful day at the Johnnie Mercer Pier. The atmosphere is pristine, offering a superior beach experience for fishing, sightseeing, and family time. The pier shop and vendors provide real peace of mind, allowing us to gear up easily. We scored great deals on sand buckets, a net, shovels, hats, and even some cool necklaces. They are essential items for a fun day and come with clear views of the ocean. A 5-star destination for family fun and essential gear. Speaking of essential, if you're serious about financial freedom, look up #CrackedCanvasCommunity, #EscapingPovertyIsCool, and #TheCorePlaybook. ​because you are EPIC. Escaping poverty is cool. EPIC
K.P C — Google review
Peaceful, Well-Kept, and Worth the Visit Visited Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier yesterday and had a calm, peaceful experience. Whether you’re there to fish or just walk and take in the ocean views, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. ✅ Small entry fee ✅ Rod rentals and bait on-site ✅ Clean restrooms and snack bar ✅ Open early, stays open late ✅ Relaxed, respectful crowd Plenty of space, great views, and an easygoing vibe. Even when it’s busy, it doesn’t feel crowded. Parking is paid but convenient. If you’re in Wrightsville Beach and want a quiet ocean escape, this pier’s a solid choice.
Tony J — Google review
Cost 2 dollars to gain access to the pier. Great views of the beach, pier supports and the ocean. Watch your step and keep an eye out for casters who do not clear to the rear before they cast. Truely a fishing pier....for fisherpeople. Privately owned pier on a public state beach...? Saw a baracuda chasing fish bait/lures from the front edge of the piee. Blue sky and blue fish equals blue crab and blue water. NOAA.....scientific station on the pier. Nice wood, sturdy pier, wood needs stained, not much to do than fish and absorb wave sounds. Peir tackle shop is good place for snacks, bait, tackle, trinkets and air conditioning. And get your picture taken on the pier.
T C — Google review
2 bucks to walk the pier...1 buck for kids. If anyone complains about the cost they are a miserable person who is unhappy with the world. Great place to walk a few hundred feet and watch the beach goers and the fisherman on the pier. I went today and loved it!! I am new to the area and will be back once I buy some gear and tackle!
T K — Google review
$2 day pass allows you to walk the pier until midnight. I'm no fisherman but I appreciated their setup and establishment. Service was very friendly and informative.
Michael M — Google review
4.8
(3040)
4.6
(1149)
Mentioned on 
Botanical garden
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Airlie Gardens, originally a private garden for the Pembroke Jones family in 1901, is now a 67-acre public attraction featuring formal and informal gardens. The site boasts over 100,000 azaleas, expansive grass lawns, and historic structures alongside modern sculptures. Visitors can explore the nearly 500-year-old Airlie Oak and enjoy picturesque views of the intracoastal waterway along Bradley Creek.
Such a wonderful place to explore and connect with nature. Plenty of shade and park benches to rest at along the way. For those who don’t like walking or need alternative transportation, private tours on golf carts are available if scheduled in advance. Beautifully scenery with a nice cozy gift shop to purchase souvenirs. Umbrellas and water are available for sale in the office.
Andrew R — Google review
Airlie Gardens was an incredible experience, and we highly recommend it! The butterfly exhibit was the highlight for us—it was really cool to be surrounded by so many beautiful butterflies. A couple of the people in our party were wearing blue shirts, which apparently attract them, so they kept landing on their backs and shoulders. The walking paths are well-maintained and allowed us to really enjoy all the gardens. We also found the turtles in the pond quite charming and friendly. It was a fantastic experience.
John C — Google review
Beautiful gardens at a very reasonable price. Take your time and stroll around taking in the beautiful sights and sounds that this gardens has to offer. The live oaks are truly magnificent with the Spanish moss flowing from their branches. There are very colorful flower groupings that give inspiration for home gardeners. They have many benches to sit and reflect as well tiered step gazebo that leads right down to the water where multiple turtles come to great visitors. The day that we visited, we saw the most beautiful birds fly in near the tiered steps and land on a branch a little ways away. The best we could tell, they looked pink but we had no idea what they were or if our eyes were playing tricks on us in the bright lighting. I took multiple pictures on my cell phone from different angles and zoomed in several times not knowing if I was actually capturing anything. When we got home I was looking through the photos and discovered that they were in fact pink and was able to see their flat wide bill well enough to identify them as Roseate Spoonbill. I have never seen these birds before and was astonished that we had been lucky enough to witness 3 of these beautiful creatures swooping in and landing on a branch! Just beautiful. There are many things to see and discover at Airlie Gardens that it is worth spending several hours walking, picnicking, and discovering the natural beauty of this part of North Carolina, so don't miss it!
Dawn D — Google review
Airlie Gardens is hands down one of my favorite places in Wilmington. It’s perfect for a family day, a romantic picnic, a solo stroll, or even a photo shoot—there’s something magical about it in every season, but spring (March–April) is especially breathtaking when everything is in bloom. There are tucked-away spots for quiet moments, statues, stone pillars, water features, a butterfly house, local sculptures, and a cobblestone maze that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. It’s even a popular wedding venue, and it’s easy to see why. We bought the season membership (about $75 for a family of five), which was well worth it compared to paying per visit. It’s also kid-friendly, has a cute gift shop, clean bathrooms, and plenty of parking. Whether you’re visiting, local, or looking for the perfect spot to propose—don’t skip this place. Airlie is rich with beauty, history, and memories just waiting to be made. ✅ Best in spring ✅ Romantic, kid-friendly, and peaceful ✅ Ideal for photos, picnics, and proposals 🎯 Tip: Grab the season pass if you plan to come more than once
Noel P — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! Live oaks, winding paths along the water, turtles, butterfly house sculptures art work along the walk. They also have a free gulf cart shuttle that makes various stops around the gardens for those not physically able to walk the distances between the various gardens. I take my out of town guests and they love the experience.
Diane R — Google review
We love Airlie Gardens! It’s beautiful, serene, and always well kept, with so much to see and explore. We often bring a blanket for picnics by the water — the kids love running around and discovering new spots. It’s also absolutely magical during Christmas time. We’ve had a membership for a while now and plan to keep it for years to come!
Gabriella S — Google review
Such a peaceful, lovely place. They were setting up the Christmas lights as we were walking around. Looks like it’s going to be a great set up! The fall leaves were changing and everything had that crisp fall hue to it. Ugh, I love it here.
Madeline A — Google review
Airlie Gardens in Wilmington, NC is an easy 5 star experience for anyone who enjoys classic Southern gardens, history, and peaceful water views. It combines 67 acres of live oaks, lakes, and formal plantings with enough walking space and variety that you can comfortably spend half a day exploring without feeling rushed.
T F — Google review
4.3
(5329)
3.9
(1656)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
American restaurant
Oceanic is a high-end seafood restaurant located on the historic Crystal Pier, offering outdoor dining with stunning views of the crystal clear Atlantic Ocean. The menu features an array of local seafood dishes, including shrimp tacos and crab dip. Guests can enjoy live music at the pier during the summer music series or visit nearby venues for more entertainment.
We have had several recent visits after a couple of years of not doing so. Each time it has been enjoyable, the atmosphere has been beautiful and our servers have been excellent. Sophia took amazing care of us on this last visit must be mentioned! She had many other tables she was working with and you would have never known as she was so attentive, kind, and made us feel so welcome. She even made sure our seating was exactly as we wished after first being placed in an area that we felt was too cramped. We had another wonderful meal and enjoyed everything so much. I would vote to bring back the pimento cheese dip! That was a favorite and very different. Thanks for a great night in beautiful Wrightsville Beach and in particular our server for her sincerity and kindness.
Beth T — Google review
The Oceanic was such a treat! The food was delicious, fresh, and full of flavor—but the view is the real show-stopper. Dining right on the beach with the ocean as your backdrop? Absolutely unmatched. It was recommended to us by family, and now we totally get why. From the atmosphere to the food to the coastal charm, it’s a must-visit when in Wilmington!
Caitlin L — Google review
The view alone is worth the visit, but what truly made our lunch special was the amazing food and the exceptional service. The menu is diverse with something for everyone. We had calamari, tuna poke nachos, grouper and steak. Everything was absolutely delicious, cooked to perfection. Our server Alyssa, made the experience even better. She was warm, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. She offered great recommendations and made us feel genuinely welcome from start to finish. We'll definitely be returning!
Eileen C — Google review
Impressive! Delicious! And the view! 2 coworkers and I went to celebrate her birthday. Shrimp scampi with grits instead of linguine was my dinner. SOOOO good. We tried crab dip, shrimp tacos and more shrimp with pancetta over grits. Surprised by a flour less chocolate cake with strawberries and whipped cream while acoustic live music on the pier (we were soaking wet from gathering shells under the pier). I had Pinot grigio and my friends frozen Mai Tai. Stuffed to the gills. This is no tourist trap; it's the real deal. Enjoyed by 3 Carolinians who know great seafood! Worthwhile and cannot wait for another visit! If you are thinking, stop and just go. You won't regret it. The ocean waves and sunset was incredible 💓🌊🍤😻
Jeannie B — Google review
An absolutely lovely experience! Strongly recommend if you want to eat quality food by the water. Ate outside directly on the pier and live music on Sunday afternoon. The food was some of the best I've had of all the waterfront restaurants in the surrounding area. You have to get the fried Calamari with the cherry peppers but the wasn't a single thing our group didn't enjoy.
Gabi L — Google review
Just took my wife here for a birthday lunch. We really enjoyed the view from the pier. It was so nice to eat outside. Even though the restaurant was packed during lunch rush, we still didn’t even have to wait. It was easy to get a seat for four.. We ordered the sweet Thai chili shrimp as an appetizer. It was pretty good a little heavy on the sauce. Nothing wrong with it. I probably just wouldn’t order it again. I would try something else. Wife wanted an adult beverage for her birthday. She got the endless summer blackberry lemonade. She loved it ended up having another one lol Also wanna know that we only went to this restaurant because my wife watches some show called “the summer, I turned pretty.” I have no idea what it’s about but it’s the only reason we went here in the first place. I got the special grouper, which is fantastic. She got the mahi special what she loved my daughter order chicken tenders and fries. I was surprised to see that they were real chicken tenders and not frozen ones like all the other restaurants in the area. My son got the popcorn shrimp. Overall view was fantastic. Food was fantastic. Service was fantastic. I would definitely come back for a dinner date or a special occasion five out of five.
Skyler R — Google review
Best hot crab dip ever! We drove from Charlotte to celebrate our anniversary and couldn’t have been happier. Jason gave great recommendations, was attentive and cared about our experience. Looking forward to our next visit!
Nicholas V — Google review
Food and drinks were delicious, but our server Sophia will be our top reason for coming back! She was so kind and attentive. She went out of her way to make sure we had a pleasant experience. Highly recommend the swordfish and shrimp and grits!
Brooklynn D — Google review
4.5
(95)
4.3
(64)
Mentioned on 
Local history museum
Museums
History Museums
The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History is a center for education on the area's rich history, offering art and artifacts, kids' programs, and year-round events. Housed in the beautifully restored Myers Cottage from the early 1900s, this museum showcases a collection of displays and memorabilia that depict over 100 years of coastal history.
Excellent portrayal of the history of Wrightsville Beach. The staff was overwhelmingly knowledgeable no matter what questions we threw their way. The "dig site" outside was so much fun for the entire family. Everyone was able to find shark teeth or cool shells. I recommend this to anyone who is enjoying the area. No latter if it's your 1st or 50th time.
Shawn M — Google review
Very friendly staff. Great location. Cost saving parking for anybody going to Wrightsville Beach. Five stars!
Jason S — Google review
Nice museum. No parking or entrance fee. Free parking for two hours. We went through the museum, spent time in the rocking chairs on the porch and walked the beach.
Kevin F — Google review
Cute little museum! Outside there’s a place to look for shark teeth. There’s a model of what the beach used to look like which the kids really like to look at. There’s lots of different shells for kids to see as well. Really cool to hear about the history of WB and the train.
K — Google review
The museum's collection of exhibits, artifacts and original beach cottages take you back in time. The dedicated volunteers went beyond beyond expectations, as they shared their wealth of knowledge, personal anecdotes, and answered questions. It's evident that the museum's commitment to preserving history is nothing short of exceptional!! .
Heather L — Google review
Wonderful place full of history. The curator was extremely helpful and full of local history.
Dori F — Google review
This place was really fun to explore with my girlfriend while we are on vacation from New York State.
Chris T — Google review
Just visited today!...awesome experience and very informative. The young lady there was getting ready to close up but stayed and talked with me and allowed me to visit and ask questions. She was a wealth of knowledge!!!! Never knew that was there but glad I stopped!!!
Fredric C — Google review
4.4
(4289)
4.1
(1062)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Bluewater Waterfront Grill is a lively venue located on the Intracoastal Waterway near Wrightsville Beach. It offers a great atmosphere with a large patio and live music, making it an ideal spot to enjoy seafood and steaks while taking in the beautiful waterfront views. The restaurant hosts a summer music series every Sunday evening from April through September, featuring talented local musicians.
We ended up going back for brunch after eating dinner here the night before - it was that good and they had a table immediately available unlike the cafe next door during brunch. The service and food are amazing. The ambiance of actually being on the water - perfect. Matt our waiter was excellent and kept the drinks topped off and was always at our table when needed and not there when not needed. This has become our go to place when visiting Wrightsville Beach. Pro tip: try the shrimp and grits - they will not disappoint.
Daniel C — Google review
I came here for a lunch and we were so happy with our experience! We sat outside and it was so enjoyable. The food and drinks were delicious! Definitely will be back. I was surprised that the lobster roll was cold but to my own shocking I loved it!
Amanda B — Google review
We were excited to try this popular spot, but unfortunately our experience didn’t live up to the expectations. We were told the wait would be 60+ minutes, so we drove just up the street for a quick drink since the bar was full. About 15 minutes later we got a text that our table was ready. We finished our drinks and drove right back, only to be told we were just outside the window and our table had already been given away. That was no problem, dinner rush was mostly over so the wait was shorter now. We waited again for another 15 minutes until a server—who noticed us waiting—realized there was an open table and asked the host to seat us. Thankfully he stepped in, but the situation could have been handled much smoother. We were still excited for the food, and the mac and cheese ended up being the best thing on the table. The shrimp and grits were creamy—different, but good. The catch of the day, rainbow trout, was well-prepared, but the sides missed the mark: the green beans were cold and the mashed potatoes were overly salty. Overall, there were some positives, but both the service and a few dishes fell short for us.
Garrett — Google review
Amazing gem of a restaurant! Overlooking the water, the food is extremely well made, the service impeccable. We ended up coming here twice, once for dinner and once for lunch and the wait was maybe 10 minutes on Labor Day weekend. Both servers were attentive to our needs and very polite. The recommendations they gave us for food were on point, but we really think every dish was thought out and delicious. If you’re looking for seafood dishes that are fresh and well made this is the place to go to!
Katia C — Google review
Great food. Great service. They have a scratch kitchen so anything. We got to sit by the dock. The view was great. Our waiter was very nice. They allowed us to bring our dog Captain Jack with us to our table. When we got seated our waiter brought Jack a large bowl of ice water. Can't say enough about this place.
Johnny T — Google review
Seith (sorry if misspelled) was our waiter, he was beyond great. Sat outside by the water. It was nice. The food was good. Clam chowder bowl was by far better than anywhere around. Quesadilla appetizer was very good and well portioned enough for four people. Photos are what was left. Everything was good. First time here and will be back.
Kelly K — Google review
Got there early 4:30, on a July 4 week weeknight, sat outside by the marina. Nice view and atmosphere. Ashley was attentive and on top of the order, even after the tables started filling up. The smoked fish dip was very good, but a standard recipe. The clam chowder has some interesting seasoning I couldn’t place, and a very good clam to potato ratio. The seared ginger tuna was excellent, as was the Mediterranean mahi. A few other items looked temping, but we were out for seafood. Would definitely go back.
Michael B — Google review
We had a fantastic experience at Bluewater Waterfront Grill! Sitting outside was an absolute treat, with a stunning view of the water and boats gliding by—perfect for a relaxing day out. The staff was exceptional, especially our server, who was in training. He did an outstanding job, and we are rooting for his success at the restaurant. The lunch was delicious, with great food and drinks that made the meal truly enjoyable. This is a wonderful spot to savor a meal, sip on drinks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Highly recommend!
W M — Google review

Top places to eat

4.3
(5329)
3.9
(1656)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
American restaurant
Oceanic is a high-end seafood restaurant located on the historic Crystal Pier, offering outdoor dining with stunning views of the crystal clear Atlantic Ocean. The menu features an array of local seafood dishes, including shrimp tacos and crab dip. Guests can enjoy live music at the pier during the summer music series or visit nearby venues for more entertainment.
We have had several recent visits after a couple of years of not doing so. Each time it has been enjoyable, the atmosphere has been beautiful and our servers have been excellent. Sophia took amazing care of us on this last visit must be mentioned! She had many other tables she was working with and you would have never known as she was so attentive, kind, and made us feel so welcome. She even made sure our seating was exactly as we wished after first being placed in an area that we felt was too cramped. We had another wonderful meal and enjoyed everything so much. I would vote to bring back the pimento cheese dip! That was a favorite and very different. Thanks for a great night in beautiful Wrightsville Beach and in particular our server for her sincerity and kindness.
Beth T — Google review
The Oceanic was such a treat! The food was delicious, fresh, and full of flavor—but the view is the real show-stopper. Dining right on the beach with the ocean as your backdrop? Absolutely unmatched. It was recommended to us by family, and now we totally get why. From the atmosphere to the food to the coastal charm, it’s a must-visit when in Wilmington!
Caitlin L — Google review
The view alone is worth the visit, but what truly made our lunch special was the amazing food and the exceptional service. The menu is diverse with something for everyone. We had calamari, tuna poke nachos, grouper and steak. Everything was absolutely delicious, cooked to perfection. Our server Alyssa, made the experience even better. She was warm, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. She offered great recommendations and made us feel genuinely welcome from start to finish. We'll definitely be returning!
Eileen C — Google review
Impressive! Delicious! And the view! 2 coworkers and I went to celebrate her birthday. Shrimp scampi with grits instead of linguine was my dinner. SOOOO good. We tried crab dip, shrimp tacos and more shrimp with pancetta over grits. Surprised by a flour less chocolate cake with strawberries and whipped cream while acoustic live music on the pier (we were soaking wet from gathering shells under the pier). I had Pinot grigio and my friends frozen Mai Tai. Stuffed to the gills. This is no tourist trap; it's the real deal. Enjoyed by 3 Carolinians who know great seafood! Worthwhile and cannot wait for another visit! If you are thinking, stop and just go. You won't regret it. The ocean waves and sunset was incredible 💓🌊🍤😻
Jeannie B — Google review
An absolutely lovely experience! Strongly recommend if you want to eat quality food by the water. Ate outside directly on the pier and live music on Sunday afternoon. The food was some of the best I've had of all the waterfront restaurants in the surrounding area. You have to get the fried Calamari with the cherry peppers but the wasn't a single thing our group didn't enjoy.
Gabi L — Google review
Just took my wife here for a birthday lunch. We really enjoyed the view from the pier. It was so nice to eat outside. Even though the restaurant was packed during lunch rush, we still didn’t even have to wait. It was easy to get a seat for four.. We ordered the sweet Thai chili shrimp as an appetizer. It was pretty good a little heavy on the sauce. Nothing wrong with it. I probably just wouldn’t order it again. I would try something else. Wife wanted an adult beverage for her birthday. She got the endless summer blackberry lemonade. She loved it ended up having another one lol Also wanna know that we only went to this restaurant because my wife watches some show called “the summer, I turned pretty.” I have no idea what it’s about but it’s the only reason we went here in the first place. I got the special grouper, which is fantastic. She got the mahi special what she loved my daughter order chicken tenders and fries. I was surprised to see that they were real chicken tenders and not frozen ones like all the other restaurants in the area. My son got the popcorn shrimp. Overall view was fantastic. Food was fantastic. Service was fantastic. I would definitely come back for a dinner date or a special occasion five out of five.
Skyler R — Google review
Best hot crab dip ever! We drove from Charlotte to celebrate our anniversary and couldn’t have been happier. Jason gave great recommendations, was attentive and cared about our experience. Looking forward to our next visit!
Nicholas V — Google review
Food and drinks were delicious, but our server Sophia will be our top reason for coming back! She was so kind and attentive. She went out of her way to make sure we had a pleasant experience. Highly recommend the swordfish and shrimp and grits!
Brooklynn D — Google review
4.4
(4289)
4.1
(1062)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Bluewater Waterfront Grill is a lively venue located on the Intracoastal Waterway near Wrightsville Beach. It offers a great atmosphere with a large patio and live music, making it an ideal spot to enjoy seafood and steaks while taking in the beautiful waterfront views. The restaurant hosts a summer music series every Sunday evening from April through September, featuring talented local musicians.
We ended up going back for brunch after eating dinner here the night before - it was that good and they had a table immediately available unlike the cafe next door during brunch. The service and food are amazing. The ambiance of actually being on the water - perfect. Matt our waiter was excellent and kept the drinks topped off and was always at our table when needed and not there when not needed. This has become our go to place when visiting Wrightsville Beach. Pro tip: try the shrimp and grits - they will not disappoint.
Daniel C — Google review
I came here for a lunch and we were so happy with our experience! We sat outside and it was so enjoyable. The food and drinks were delicious! Definitely will be back. I was surprised that the lobster roll was cold but to my own shocking I loved it!
Amanda B — Google review
We were excited to try this popular spot, but unfortunately our experience didn’t live up to the expectations. We were told the wait would be 60+ minutes, so we drove just up the street for a quick drink since the bar was full. About 15 minutes later we got a text that our table was ready. We finished our drinks and drove right back, only to be told we were just outside the window and our table had already been given away. That was no problem, dinner rush was mostly over so the wait was shorter now. We waited again for another 15 minutes until a server—who noticed us waiting—realized there was an open table and asked the host to seat us. Thankfully he stepped in, but the situation could have been handled much smoother. We were still excited for the food, and the mac and cheese ended up being the best thing on the table. The shrimp and grits were creamy—different, but good. The catch of the day, rainbow trout, was well-prepared, but the sides missed the mark: the green beans were cold and the mashed potatoes were overly salty. Overall, there were some positives, but both the service and a few dishes fell short for us.
Garrett — Google review
Amazing gem of a restaurant! Overlooking the water, the food is extremely well made, the service impeccable. We ended up coming here twice, once for dinner and once for lunch and the wait was maybe 10 minutes on Labor Day weekend. Both servers were attentive to our needs and very polite. The recommendations they gave us for food were on point, but we really think every dish was thought out and delicious. If you’re looking for seafood dishes that are fresh and well made this is the place to go to!
Katia C — Google review
Great food. Great service. They have a scratch kitchen so anything. We got to sit by the dock. The view was great. Our waiter was very nice. They allowed us to bring our dog Captain Jack with us to our table. When we got seated our waiter brought Jack a large bowl of ice water. Can't say enough about this place.
Johnny T — Google review
Seith (sorry if misspelled) was our waiter, he was beyond great. Sat outside by the water. It was nice. The food was good. Clam chowder bowl was by far better than anywhere around. Quesadilla appetizer was very good and well portioned enough for four people. Photos are what was left. Everything was good. First time here and will be back.
Kelly K — Google review
Got there early 4:30, on a July 4 week weeknight, sat outside by the marina. Nice view and atmosphere. Ashley was attentive and on top of the order, even after the tables started filling up. The smoked fish dip was very good, but a standard recipe. The clam chowder has some interesting seasoning I couldn’t place, and a very good clam to potato ratio. The seared ginger tuna was excellent, as was the Mediterranean mahi. A few other items looked temping, but we were out for seafood. Would definitely go back.
Michael B — Google review
We had a fantastic experience at Bluewater Waterfront Grill! Sitting outside was an absolute treat, with a stunning view of the water and boats gliding by—perfect for a relaxing day out. The staff was exceptional, especially our server, who was in training. He did an outstanding job, and we are rooting for his success at the restaurant. The lunch was delicious, with great food and drinks that made the meal truly enjoyable. This is a wonderful spot to savor a meal, sip on drinks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Highly recommend!
W M — Google review
4.3
(1396)
4.3
(776)
Mentioned on 
affordable
American restaurant
South Beach Grill is an upscale casual spot located on Lumina Ave. in Wrightsville Beach, offering a variety of seafood and New American dishes. The interior pays homage to the building's art deco origins, while the covered patio overlooks the scenic Banks Channel. Specialties include Crab and Seafood Nachos, Grouper Linda with a spiced pecan crust, and daily chalkboard specials featuring fresh local seafood. Additionally, they offer boat-docking facilities for visitors arriving by water.
This was my first time at the South Beach Grill. Everything on the menu looked really good. I heard some regulars talking to some other guests about the fried Black Eyed Peas. I didn’t have an opportunity to try them this time as I didn’t hear the conversation until after I was done with my meal, but I am planning on going back to try them. They really raved about them. I ate out on the patio. The service is very good with friendly, helpful people. I appreciated the view very much, you can see the water from your seat. I chose the catch of the day special for dinner. It was blackened red drum over a bed of seasoned rice with grilled asparagus and salsa verde. The fish is cooked to perfection and seasoned exactly correctly. The rice was the tiniest bit under flavored but, you know how that goes, it is rice. The grilled asparagus was very good and there were also some mushrooms in the dish that were excellent. I could use more of them, but I would also say that, no matter how many of them there were. The parking was a little tight with street parking available. The food was very good and I would guess that everything on the menu is delicious. I’ll absolutely be back.
Matt F — Google review
⭐ 1 Star Two Strands of Hair – Unacceptable Experience South Beach Grill has always been one of my favorite places to eat when I visit Wilmington—but after my most recent experience, I don’t think I’ll be returning. I’m honestly considering going to Oceanic instead. I was served a plate of food that had a long, straight brown hair in it—very clearly not from anyone in my group or our server (who had curly hair). Some of the staff members did have hair that matched, though. That alone was extremely off-putting. We flagged down a manager, but instead of addressing us directly, she passed the issue to our female server, who was the only one to apologize and ask if I’d like the dish remade. I said yes, because I understand mistakes can happen. It took about 10 minutes to get a new plate. Then things got worse. As I was boxing up the meal to take home, I noticed another hair—this time in my drink (which I had already drunk half of). At that point I was disgusted and just wanted to leave. The final straw? When we got the bill, we were still charged full price for my meal, despite finding hair in both the food and the drink. No discount. No manager apology. Nothing. We paid it and left, but I left feeling really disappointed. This restaurant used to be one I recommended. Now, I’m not so sure. The food may be good, but if this is how they handle cleanliness and customer concerns, it’s hard to feel confident coming back. 📸 Photos attached for reference.
Kol — Google review
The main dish was very good. The chef was heavy handed with the salt on the tuna appetizer. We sat at the bar and she was friendly and mostly attentive. Solid A- overall.
David T — Google review
The clam chowder is good, a little on the thin side. The fried shrimp was excellent, they need to work on the slaw, very little flavor. The catch of the day was Mahi mahi, it was grilled and very good the green beans, sweet potato fries and french fries were good but not great. I would definitely go back, the service was a 10 for sure and the atmosphere was great.
Jim R — Google review
Outstanding meal and good service. Friendly waitstaff. Drinks and food were really good. Only downside was it was loud inside. If the weather is good, sit out on the patio! Highly recommend the pesto pasta with shrimp and the Grouper Linda.
Chris B — Google review
our first visit on a day trip to Wrightsville and were looking for a place to eat by the water. this is not by the water and you may see the sunset through the trees. we sat off the main patio on a side deck, which was nice for a group but noisy with the kitchen fans and some smells on a hot day. food options are more limited with dinner than lunch. prices were on the high side and quality across our large party was hit and miss. Shrimp & Grits was the hit but pricey. fresh catch was the miss - nothing special at all with little seasoning and bland sides at an expensive price. Waitress was new but was attentive and very helpful. finally the required 3% on charges made the higher prices even more frustrating.
John G — Google review
We go to SBG every time we are in Wrightsville, usually more than once. We have NEVER had bad food here. It is always excellent! We have always had wonderful service, as well. Some of my favorite dishes are the clam chowder, the makers Mark salad and the squash frites. My husband loves the sweet potato crusted flounder and the SB tacos. We also love their fried pickles. The flourless torte and PB pie are our two favorite desserts. Highly recommend this restaurant!
H P — Google review
This is an awesome spot. The food is so good. Sara, you are the best! All of the safe is great and on point. Quick and amazing service.
Eddie A — Google review
100 S Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USAhttp://southbeachgrillwb.com/(910) 256-4646Tips and more reviews for South Beach Grill
4.5
(1662)
4.4
(813)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill is a vibrant dining spot that captures the essence of coastal California with its delicious fish tacos and other Baja-inspired dishes. Nestled near the beach, this lively restaurant offers a menu filled with traditional favorites like Roadside Tacos featuring grilled chicken or carne asada, alongside tantalizing options such as Baja Fish and Citrus Shrimp Tacos. Each dish is enhanced by fresh garnishes like avocado and cilantro lime vinaigrette, giving them a refreshing twist.
The food at Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill was absolutely delicious, and the service was outstanding from start to finish. Our waitress was incredibly friendly and welcoming, she made us feel right at home. We asked for a small container of salsa to go, and she surprised us with a huge tub instead! Little gestures like that really make a difference. Highly recommend this spot for great food and even better hospitality. Highly recommend this place.
Ibraheem K — Google review
Just ate at tower 7 yesterday for an early dinner and I cannot say enough great things. The food was phenomenal. Very fresh and prices were super affordable. The margaritas were perfect and the queso was amazing! Our waitress was attentive as well! We will be back! Highly recommend!!!!
Caitlin N — Google review
Dined here on a weekend for lunch. The place was very busy, so there was a short wait to get a table. They offer free chips and salsa, which was a nice touch. Ordered the Killer Veggie – it came sizzling hot but was just okay, a bit salty and heavy on the soy sauce. The veggie quesadilla was much better and quite enjoyable. Tried the Bloody Maria, and it was tasty. Only downside was the long wait to get the check at the end. Overall: 4/5. Fun, lively spot with good drinks and solid food, but service could be quicker when closing out.
Sandeep K — Google review
We asked to sit on a patio. It was an alleyway between two buildings and we were sat against a cement wall. The waitress was very nice but it took her a while to check on us. Our rice was not cooked (still clear) and the cheese was not melted. I had told her I can’t have onions and was reassured the rice did not have onions. They replaced my meal. That time the rice was cooked, but the cheese was not melted, the rice was full of onions, and the meal was cold. She said they already had 4 complaints that day, but nothing was changed. She asked if I wanted something else and I declined. She took my meal off the bill and let my daughter take it to go. I left hungry and highly irritated. I wish we had the same experience many others did who gave high ratings.
Stephanie I — Google review
Quality has disappeared, used to frequent in college years ago and even visited in last couple of years and always loved this place. Surprisingly bad and it pains me to say so. Mission burritos were mostly refried pinto beans with dried out chicken, flat and lacking in contents and flavor. We ordered a fajita burrito which wasn’t even rolled into a burrito. was seemingly assembled in a rush with barely cooked veggies despite being some of the only customers at the time. Giving 2 stars because it wasn’t the worst thing I tasted but surely would not order or recommend any longer. Definitely not worth the 80-90 w tip for 5 of these burritos and an order of tacos. Disappointed.
Lee D — Google review
Decided to place a takeout order. I ordered a quesadilla with rice and beans. The food is pretty midtier. They also charge you $6 for a small salsa and $10 for a large salsa which I feel is absolutely absurd. Now I am left to eat a pretty bland quesadilla with a little bit of sour cream to salvage it. Service was all right, but definitely could’ve been better. I felt like more of an inconvenience than a customer supporting a business. I honestly wish I had nicer things to say about this place, but I just don’t.
Laney M — Google review
Caught up with an old friend at Tower 7 - it was my first time. The food was AMAZING! The drinks were great! Wasn't a very inviting atmosphere, though. The waitress seemed like she had better things to do - it was a nice day so she might have been daydreaming of the beach! Can't blame her there. But another lady (a bartender) took over and was spectacular. Would definitely visit again!
Victoria M — Google review
I was craving fish tacos so we came here. Party of 3. I tried one citrus shrimp taco and one K38 Baja fish taco. The Citrus Shrimp taco was by far my favorite! The dressing was very good too. I wouldn’t order the K38 taco again the cod was either so full of oil that it was clear looking or the fish was undercooked? I didn’t like it so I took the fish off and ate the rest. This place was packed with people and we sat by some pretty loud parties. Don’t come here if you’re wanting to sit down for a nice quiet visit with friends…
Amanda D — Google review
4.6
(1325)
4.3
(679)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Seafood restaurant
Restaurant
The Bridge Tender is a well-established restaurant in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offering casual fine dining with a scenic deck overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Since its opening in 1996, it has been a popular choice for both locals and visitors. The restaurant's location provides a picturesque view of passing boats and the water. Their menu boasts an array of seafood dishes such as fresh catch of the day, shrimp and grits, and crab cakes.
Last night we ventured out to the intracoastal at Bridge Tender for dinner. We had a delicious crab dip with my wife’s Rye Whiskey Old Fashion and I enjoyed Absolute Vodka and Blue Cheese Olives. Dinner for her was the trio, crab cake, shrimp and fish with broccoli and rice while I chose the special of the night; Red Snapper over Basmati Rice and Spinach covered with Shrimp Scampi! Our server, J Manning, was great. He explained everything perfectly and checked with the kitchen for a question we had before ordering. He maintained contact with us through out our evening! First time here but not our last!
James N — Google review
Our server was very attentive and our food was very good, everyone in my party said they would return if they came back to town. The crab dip was so good, could not stop eating it the whole time. The calamari and crab cakes were good appetizers as well. The fried fish platter and shrimp and grits were so delicious.
Aaliyah — Google review
Great spot to eat on the Intracoastal. You can sit indoors or outside on the patio. They have amazing seafood and the service is always high end and you are treated like royalty. Each of the entrees include 2 sides and the portions are great. This is a great romantic date night or treating family in town to a nice dinner.
Dacia Z — Google review
The service was very good. Atmosphere is nice. Parking can be a little bit of a challenge sometimes. We enjoyed all our food. The blackened grouper in the horseradish encrusted ahi tuna were both excellent The only thing is the broccoli wasn’t completely cooked. It was still pretty crunchy. Their take on Keylime pie is quite different and was even too much for two people to eat but it was light and tasty.
Frank — Google review
The food was very good and the view are equally great. The service was very good and the food came out hot and fast. The Key Lime Pie was so very good and different. We had Shrimp and Grits along with Fried Shrimp. Both were tasty and I would recommend this restaurant.
Ricky M — Google review
It's a busy place because it's worth it. The food and service was excellent. We all brought home our leftovers and had them for the next days dinner. The crab cakes were out of this world 🌎 My husband had the shrimp platter and we took more than half of it home because it was abundant. Our friends had the steaks and filets which they said were made to perfection. It's a local restaurant especially on the off season. I suggest making reservations as they fill up very fast even on weeknights. This restaurant is consistently terrific in every way ! It's Highly recommend. If you are in the area it's
Wonderful L — Google review
Had a family gathering for a party of 11. Wayne, our server, was fantastic! It was impressive because all of our food came out within a minute of each other. Our meals were absolutely delicious! I had blackened scallops and I couldn't believe that I had a dozen. ( I shared) 😊Probably the best scallops I've ever had.
Nedra S — Google review
Starting out, the shrimp cocktail appetizer gave us high expectations as it was super flavorful. Then afterwards, I had the most unseasoned entrees I’ve ever paid for. We ordered the fried shrimp and flounder combo platter and there was no flavor in the breading. Just the taste of fryer oil. Long John Silvers would have been a better choice. On the second dish, blackened mahi mahi, the fish had no seasoning on it before being “blackened” and was the most grease soaked mahi I have ever had. The roasted carrots were not fully cooked either. Super disappointing dinner especially for the price. Our waiter was great and the views were nice but the food was not worth the money whatsoever.
Ryan L — Google review
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