Downtown
Wilmington
Riverwalk, restaurants, and historic blocks.
NORTH CAROLINA'S COAST
The Local Guide to
Wilmington & North
Carolina's Coast.
Beaches, small-town charm, family adventures, and the unforgettable coastal moments worth driving for.
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towns
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Featured Destinations
Explore the
Best of Our Coast.
From the riverfront in Wilmington to the dunes at Fort Fisher — four towns, fifty miles of barrier islands, and the slow southern coast in between.
Editor's Picks
Inspiration for
Every Kind of Trip.
Field-tested itineraries, local-favorite restaurants, and the kind of unhurried recommendations that don't show up on the first page of search results.
DO
A Sunset Cruise on the Cape Fear: Riding the Henrietta from Downtown Wilmington
The Henrietta sunset cruise is a 90-minute Saturday-evening ride on the Cape Fear River from downtown Wilmington. What you see, which deck to pick, and how to board.
Read the story
kure beach
Take the Ferry to Southport: Wilmington's Easiest Day Trip
Ride the Fort Fisher-Southport car ferry across the Cape Fear: about $7 a car, 35 minutes each way, and a waterfront town to walk. Fares, schedule, and timing tips.
kure beach
The Cape Fear Kite Festival at Fort Fisher: What to Expect on Kite Weekend
The Cape Fear Kite Festival flies November 6-8, 2026 at Fort Fisher. Free admission, 80+ pro flyers, and the parking rule that decides how your day goes.
The Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington: What to Expect on Downtown's Haunted History Tour
Hotel, vacation rental, condo, or B&B in Wilmington beach country? A decision guide
Carolina Beach when the kitchens close: late-night and breakfast picks
Local Flavor
Coastal Dining
Done Right.
Fresh seafood, waterfront views, and a short list of places we keep coming back to.
STAY CONNECTED
Plan better
coastal vacations.
Get updates on things to do and the restaurants worth a reservation across Wilmington.