As the summer travel season winds down in August, we’re going to let you in on a best-kept travel secret: late summer is a great time to plan a vacation to Wilmington, North Carolina's Island Beaches. With many local schools already be back in session, there are far fewer crowds, a wider availability of lodging options and plenty of family-friendly things to see and do. Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach have their own distinct personalities – each offering something different.
To help inspire your final vacation of the summer, here’s a list of five reasons why you should take advantage of late August and head to Wilmington N.C.’s Island Beaches:
1. Fewer Crowds
North Carolina’s kids go back to school before yours do. This means far fewer crowds during the last two weeks of August and more time to spend on the beach with friends and family. Less waiting, less traffic, and more fun. Plus – more parking!
2. Availability of Lodging
Fewer people means more lodging options. Visitors to Wilmington’s Island Beaches can choose from an impressive variety of family-friendly accommodations like full-service hotels with stunning oceanfront views and summer programs for kids. Looking for a little more space? With plenty of vacation beach homes and vintage motels that will fit the whole family, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your party’s size and budget.
3. Try Something New
Explore a vintage (but newly renovated) boardwalk in Carolina Beach where you can take a spin on seaside amusement rides, sample famous donuts, or take in weekly oceanfront concert and fireworks. Want to learn something new? Spend time at two of North Carolina’s landmark attractions in Kure Beach -- Fort Fisher State Historic Site, the site of the largest land-sea battle of the Civil War; and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, which was recently named a top 20 aquarium in the U.S. by Trip Advisor.
Looking for even more adventure? Take a standup paddleboard lesson or charter a sailboat at Wrightsville Beach, a walkable island dubbed one of the top surfing towns in the world by National Geographic.
4. Easy to Get Here
As North Carolina’s most accessible coastal destination, it’s easy to get here and even easier to navigate once you arrive. Forget the plane tickets and losing two days of flying to get there and home; rather pack your bags to experience sunshine, salty air and relaxation at its finest – only a car ride away!
5. River to Sea
While you’re in town, discover why nearby Wilmington was named “America’s Best Riverfront” by USA TODAY while strolling along the Riverwalk. Enjoy scenic views of the Cape Fear River, waterfront restaurants and shops, history, arts and culture, and more. Wilmington is just a quick 20 to 30-minute trip from the Island Beaches! With only a few weeks left of summer, now is the time to plan a unique getaway that might just turn into your new beach vacation spot of choice.