Wrightsville Beach Live Cam

Enjoy the inviting waters, soothing sands, and picturesque surroundings

Live Cam Carolina Yacht Club - Sound Side View - Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina - United States

Advertisement

Hosted by:
  • Carolina Yacht Club
  • 401 S. Lumina Avenue - Wrightsville Beach
  • North Carolina 28480 - United States
  • 910-256-3396
  • http://www.carolinayachtclub.org/

New Hanover County History

New Hanover County is a coastal county located in southeastern North Carolina, United States. The county was formed in 1729 as a part of the Province of Carolina and was named after the House of Hanover, the ruling family of Great Britain at the time. The county seat is Wilmington, which is also the largest city in the county.

The earliest inhabitants of the area were Native American tribes, including the Cape Fear and Waccamaw tribes. The first Europeans to explore the area were Spanish explorers in the 16th century, but it was not until the late 17th century that permanent settlements were established in the region.

The port city of Wilmington was founded in 1739 and quickly became a center for commerce and trade. It was an important center for the slave trade and a hub for blockade runners during the Civil War. After the war, Wilmington underwent a period of reconstruction and became a major center for shipping, lumber, and textiles.

During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, Wilmington was the site of several significant protests and demonstrations. In 1971, a group of African American students staged a boycott of the city's schools to protest segregation, which resulted in the firing of all black teachers and administrators.

Today, New Hanover County is a popular tourist destination and is home to several beaches, parks, and cultural attractions. It is also a center for industry, education, and healthcare. The county has a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage, which is celebrated through festivals, events, and museums.

New Hanover County Top Tourist Attractions

New Hanover County is a popular tourist destination with a variety of attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the county:

  • Wilmington Riverwalk: This scenic boardwalk is located along the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington and offers visitors stunning views of the city skyline and the river. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars along the way.
  • Wrightsville Beach: This popular beach is known for its white sand, clear water, and great surfing conditions. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or take part in a variety of water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
  • Battleship North Carolina: This historic battleship served in World War II and is now a museum that is open to the public. Visitors can tour the ship and learn about its history and the role it played in the war.
  • Airlie Gardens: These 67-acre gardens feature beautiful landscapes, formal gardens, and a variety of exotic plants and flowers. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or participate in a guided tour to learn more about the gardens.
  • Fort Fisher State Historic Site: This historic site was the location of a major Civil War battle and is now a museum and nature preserve. Visitors can tour the museum and learn about the history of the fort, as well as explore the nearby beach and nature trails.
  • Cameron Art Museum: This museum features a collection of contemporary art, as well as exhibits and events that celebrate the region's cultural heritage.
  • Bellamy Mansion Museum: This historic mansion was built in the mid-19th century and is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of Wilmington and the surrounding region.
  • Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts: This historic theater has been a cultural landmark in Wilmington since the mid-19th century and is now a center for performing arts that hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year.

New Hanover County Climate

New Hanover County has a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The area experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the summer months.

In the winter, temperatures in New Hanover County typically range from the mid-30s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit (1-12 Celsius), with occasional cold snaps bringing temperatures below freezing. Snowfall is rare in the area, and when it does occur, it usually melts quickly.

In the summer, temperatures can be hot and humid, with average highs in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (29-32 Celsius). Heatwaves can occur during the summer months, with temperatures occasionally reaching the mid-90s Fahrenheit (35 Celsius) or higher. The area is also prone to thunderstorms during the summer, which can produce heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.

Spring and fall are typically mild and pleasant in New Hanover County, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 Celsius). The area is known for its beautiful spring blooms, including azaleas and dogwoods. Overall, New Hanover County has a mild climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities and coastal charm.

New Hanover County Geography

New Hanover County is located in southeastern North Carolina, along the Atlantic coast. The county has a total area of 328 square miles (849 square kilometers), with approximately 105 miles (169 kilometers) of shoreline along the Cape Fear River, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean.

The county is relatively flat, with elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 75 feet (23 meters) above sea level. The coastal plain region is characterized by sandy soils, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. Inland, the county is home to forests, wetlands, and agricultural land.

Wilmington, the county seat, is located on the Cape Fear River and is the largest city in the county. Other notable communities in the county include Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach, which are all popular tourist destinations known for their beautiful beaches and water sports activities.

New Hanover County is also home to several islands, including Masonboro Island, which is the largest undisturbed barrier island along the southern North Carolina coast. The island is accessible only by boat and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Overall, New Hanover County's geography is shaped by its coastal location, with a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes that offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.