Shell Island Travel Guide
Wrightsville Beach
Visit Shell Island
Popular places to visit
Wrightsville Beach
This picturesque barrier island offers consistent waves for surfers, a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Johnnie Mercer's Pier
After visiting Johnnie Mercer's Pier, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Wrightsville Beach. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Wrightsville SUP
You can take time to visit Wrightsville SUP during your travels to Wrightsville Beach. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event in the area.
Things to do
Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour
Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour
Top hotels in Shell Island
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites
"Bar and restaurant were open for brunch short staffed. King size bed mattress was hard and lumpy needs to be changed out. Rooms only cleaned upon request. The beach view was fantastic. It's the first week of June. Gotta drive in town to find a place to eat. Island closed down at 10 o'clock usually. ..."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Sleep Inn Wilmington near University
"The property is going through well needed reservations. The rooms are bad..."
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
"Bed needs replacing, vanity light didn’t work, window on the exterior was filthy-it’s a wonderful location however."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Comfort Inn University
"For the price everything was good."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Spark by Hilton Wilmington
"Very limited bfest"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Pirates Cove
"The property is next door to their restaurant. Not enough parking for both so if you leave for dinner don’t expect to come back to a parking space at the hotel as restaurant patrons park in the hotel spots even though it is clearly marked for hotels guests. Hotel wouldn’t do anything about it."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Shell Island
South End
If you're spending some time in South End, Wrightsville Beach and South End Surf Shop are top sights worth seeing.
South Harbor Island
When in South Harbor Island, you can plan a visit to Wrightsville Beach and New Hanover County Arboretum, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Parmele Isle
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Parmele Isle and surrounding area, you can visit Wrightsville Beach and Wrightsville SUP.
