Community Profiles

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach, one of the two barrier islands on the Cape Fear Coast, is a place unlike most other coastal areas. Established in 1899, the island was once accessible only by water. Today Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination for weekend getaways and annual vacations.

A relaxed and friendly atmosphere prevails in this beach community. A clean and uncluttered five-mile stretch of white sand and sparkling water invites a day of beachcombing, swimming, parasailing, surfing and pier or surf fishing. “The Loop” is a 2.5 mile fitness trail that circles the inner island for the fitness-conscious….enjoyed almost year round because of the exceptional weather.

The annual Castles and Scoops Sand sculpting Contest, Lumina Daze, and the NC Holiday Flotilla are among the annual events held each year, celebrating the islands nautical and cultural heritage.

Carolina/Kure Beach

Carolina Beach established in 1857, is within a 20-minute drive from Wilmington and is located on the north end of Pleasure Island, the larger of two barrier islands on the Cape Fear Coast.

After a day at the beach, visitors and locals can stroll around the quaint town center, enjoying restaurants ranging from five-star to local family grills. Your evening can be complete with a walk along the boardwalk and a visit to our famous donut and coffee shop.

One thing Carolina Beach is known for is fishing. Whether it’s from the pier, in the surf, or aboard a deep-sea charter boat, anglers will not be disappointed.

On the southern end of Pleasure Island is Kure Beach, one of the regions best-kept secrets. Kure Beach is home to Fort Fisher, one of the Civil War’s greatest defensive earthworks. Each year Civil War re-enactors gather to recreate the great battle of 1865.

Located nearby is Fort Fisher Aquarium, one of three North Carolina Aquariums, and home to several species of fishes, sharks, alligators, and other marine life.

Topsail Island/Surf City

Topsail/Surf City lies along the southeastern coast of North Carolina, a 26-mile barrier island wrapped in a rich history. Located halfway between Wilmington and the military town of Jacksonville, this small slice of paradise is making a big name for itself.

Topsail/Surf City was known for being a small quaint fishing village, but today the island offers many activities for the family as well as those who have retired here for a relaxing summer get away. The island is drenched in sun and fun, including surfing and various other water sports.

Great restaurants with outdoor seating and live music entertain our locals and visitors year round!

Southport

Southport is tucked away on the southeastern coast of the Brunswick Islands, where the mouth of the Cape Fear River meets the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean.

In 210-year-old Southport, a stroll through town reveals live oak trees shading stately wooden homes, many with historic plaques.

Visitors come for the seafood, antiquing, and for festivals such as, the U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament and the North Carolina Fourth of July Celebration, where an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 attended in 2005.

Cap off your visit with a ferry ride from Southport to Bald Head Island, accessible only by water.

Wilmington

Nestled between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, the historic riverfront town of Wilmington has long been known as the “Port City of Progress and Pleasure.” Founded in 1739, Wilmington prospered during its early years as a major port and shipbuilding center. Today it thrives as a premier tourist and filmmaking destination.

Boasting one of the state’s largest districts listed in the National Register of Historic Places, a number of Victorian, Georgian, Italianate and antebellum-style homes, buildings and churches have been restored to their original grandeur. Downtown Wilmington offers eclectic shopping, vibrant nightlife, theatrical productions and outstanding restaurants. Just minutes away, you’ll find excellent golf courses, parks, amusements, plantations, retailers and beautiful beaches.

The Battleship North Carolina, Bellamy Mansion, Thalian Hall, and Wilmington’s Riverwalk are among the attractions, guided tours and variety of activities to be enjoyed. Traditional festivals such as the N.C. Azalea Festival and Riverfest, among others celebrate the area’s arts, history and culture.

Home to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, the fastest growing university in the North Carolina system. Enrollment for the 2004-2005 school year was a little over 11,000……….The office of admissions received more than 10,000 applications for 1,950 freshmen spaces for fall 2005.

Wilmington has received many accolades from national magazines, newspapers and surveys. Named one of the 100 Best Art Towns in America, 100 Best Retirement Towns, one of the top 75 places in the country to set up a medical practice, and number 36 on a Forbes magazine list for the 200 Best Places for Business and Careers.

It’s no wonder a renaissance has occurred in the Greater Wilmington area, reaffirming the storied history of the region when Wilmington was the largest city in North Carolina. People of all ages and backgrounds have been-and continue to be-drawn to the mild climate, beautiful shoreline, historic attractions, inviting business atmosphere and southern hospitality.