Wrightsville Beach Live Cam

A beautiful town in New Hanover County


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Hosted by:
  • Surf City Surf Shop
  • 530 Causeway Dr. - Wrightsville Beach
  • North Carolina 28480 - United States
  • (910) 256-2265
  • [email protected]
  • https://www.gosurfcity.com/

Wrightsville Beach History

Wrightsville Beach is a barrier island located in New Hanover County, North Carolina, USA. The area has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Here is an overview of the Wrightsville Beach history:

  • Pre-Colonial Era: Native Americans inhabited the area now known as Wrightsville Beach for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The Cape Fear Indians were the main tribe in the region.
  • Colonial Era: The first European settlers arrived in the mid-1700s, and the area became a popular spot for pirates. In the late 1700s, the first lighthouse in North Carolina was built on nearby Bald Head Island to help guide ships into the Cape Fear River.
  • 19th Century: In the 1800s, Wrightsville Beach became a popular spot for wealthy plantation owners to vacation. The area was named after Joshua G. Wright, who owned a large tract of land on the island. In 1875, the first hotel was built on the island, called the Oceanic Hotel.
  • Early 20th Century: In the early 1900s, the beach began to develop as a resort destination. The Lumina Pavilion, a large entertainment venue, was built in 1905 and became a popular spot for dancing, concerts, and other events. In 1923, the first bridge was built to connect the island to the mainland, making it more accessible to visitors.
  • World War II: During World War II, Wrightsville Beach was used as a training ground for US Army troops. A concrete observation tower was built on the island, which still stands today as a popular tourist attraction.
  • Late 20th Century: In the 1970s and 80s, Wrightsville Beach experienced significant development. High-rise condominiums and hotels were built, and the island became a popular spot for vacationers and retirees.

Today, Wrightsville Beach is a thriving community with a mix of permanent residents and seasonal visitors. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and fishing, as well as its vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. The Lumina Pavilion no longer stands, but the area is still a popular destination for live music and other events.

Wrightsville Beach Top Tourist Attractions

Wrightsville Beach is a popular tourist destination with a variety of attractions to explore. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Wrightsville Beach:

  • Wrightsville Beach: The beach is the main attraction on the island, and it's easy to see why. The crystal-clear water, wide stretches of sand, and warm weather make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Johnnie Mercer's Pier: This fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers to cast their lines and catch fish like flounder, drum, and mackerel. The pier also has a restaurant and bar with ocean views.
  • Wrightsville Beach Museum of History: This museum tells the story of the island's history, from its pre-colonial era to the present day. Exhibits include artifacts, photos, and interactive displays.
  • Wrightsville SUP: Stand-up paddleboarding is a popular activity on the island, and Wrightsville SUP is one of the best places to rent boards and take lessons. The calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway make it an ideal spot for beginners.
  • Wrightsville Beach Park: This park has a playground, basketball courts, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Masonboro Island Reserve: This nature reserve is located just off the coast of Wrightsville Beach and is accessible by boat. It's a popular spot for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the island's pristine beaches and tidal marshes.
  • Airlie Gardens: Located just a short drive from Wrightsville Beach, Airlie Gardens is a 67-acre public garden with walking trails, ponds, and historic structures. The gardens are particularly beautiful in the spring when the azaleas and camellias are in bloom.

Wrightsville Beach Climate

Wrightsville Beach is located in North Carolina, United States, and has a humid subtropical climate. The summers in Wrightsville Beach are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30-33°C). The humidity levels can be quite high, which can make it feel even warmer.

The winter months in Wrightsville Beach are mild, with temperatures averaging in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (10-15°C). While snowfall is rare, it is not unheard of, with an average of around one inch per year. Rainfall is more common, with the wettest months being June, July, and August.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and Wrightsville Beach can be vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes during this time. Visitors should be aware of weather warnings and evacuation procedures in case of a hurricane.

Overall, Wrightsville Beach has a pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers, but visitors should be prepared for high humidity levels in the summer and the possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes during hurricane season.

Wrightsville Beach Geography

Wrightsville Beach is a small barrier island located in southeastern North Carolina, USA. It is situated between the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. The island is about 5 miles long and less than a mile wide, with a total area of about 2.5 square miles.

The island is connected to the mainland by the Wrightsville Beach Bridge, which spans the Intracoastal Waterway. The nearest city is Wilmington, which is about 10 miles to the west of Wrightsville Beach.

The beach itself is one of the main attractions of Wrightsville Beach, with a long stretch of white sand and clear blue water. The island also has several parks and nature reserves, including Wrightsville Beach Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a pier for fishing.

One of the unique features of Wrightsville Beach is the presence of tidal inlets, which connect the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. These inlets provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Overall, Wrightsville Beach is a small but beautiful island with a unique geography that offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors.