We love the beaches in the area! Below are some of our favorites that we have spent many summers at (and a few we haven't tried yet, but have heard good things about). If you are planning to rent a beach house, look to book quickly and expect a week long rental (usually Saturday to Saturday). Note: if you find something on Airbnb or Vrbo, google the address, you can usually get a better rate booking with the rental company directly. Topsail Beach (one of our favs!) Oak Island (one of our favs!) Holden Beach Kure Beach Carolina Beach
This is the "main" beach in Wilmington. It is a 10 minute drive from the wedding hotel.
Stroll along nearly two-miles of scenic walkway alongside the historic Cape Fear River. Stretching from Nunn Street to the Isabella Holmes Bridge, lined with an assortment of markets, unique boutiques and art galleries, the Riverwalk is home to outdoor cafes and narrated tours. Along the river, you'll happen upon the refurbished WWII Battleship serving as a memorial for the 11,000 North Carolinians who died during the war. The Battleship is open every day.
Explore 67 acres containing formal gardens, wildlife, ten acres of lakes, more than 75,000 azaleas, the tall Airlie Oak which dates back to 1545, and a seasonal butterfly house all located two miles west of Wrightsville Beach. Walk the trails or ride a tram to discover landscapes where something is always in bloom. Gardens are open with last admission at 4:30 pm. All tickets must be purchased in advance.