Wilmington is known for its laid-back surf culture and stunning beach views, making it the ideal spring break destination. If you're in town for the break, there's no shortage of exciting activities to take part in and unique spots to check out! Refer to this list of 10 ideas for spring break in Wilmington from going to bars to doing adventurous outdoor activities and relaxing in nature!
Wrightsville Beach Jet Ski Rentals
Looking to fill your spring break with action? Get out on the water and experience the waves of Wilmington from a new perspective. Serving Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, and Carolina Beach since 2005, this spot provides new Yamaha four-stroke jet skis for rental.
Rent standup paddleboards, kayaks, outriggers, or bikes and get active this spring break in Wilmington! If you're already a pro, take your rental out on the water and explore on your own. If you need some assistance, lessons are available based on your skill level and comfort zone. Group lessons are perfect for a crowd of adventurous spring breakers!
What's spring break without a night at the club? Ibiza Nightclub is located in the heart of Downtown Wilmington and is open on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. This modern dance club has talented DJs playing house, hip-hop, and Top 40 music all night long. They also have karaoke on Wednesdays and drag shows every weekend!
Pravda is home to a spacious, upscale lounge that has DJs, professional light shows, and a 30,000-watt sound system to keep the party going all night long! Visit one of their two bars to check out their house-infused cocktail selection or order bottle service. Enjoy $5 Stoli vodka martinis on Thursdays or $3 house-infused vodka drinks on Fridays and Saturdays. This hot spot is open Thursday through Saturday, making it the perfect place to visit over your spring break weekend!
This funky cocktail bar is ideal for a night out with the spring break squad! Their cocktails are made with premium spirits and local ingredients; we recommend The North Side Negroni made with Sutler's Gin, Campari, and house-infused mandarin sweet vermouth (yum!). Check out the private covered patio where you're free to smoke cigars or hang out on the main floor that is beautifully decorated with hardwood floors, leather furniture, and local art. If you're in Wilmington with a large group of friends for spring break, you can rent out their loft for free! This spot is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. with live music every weekend.
KGB is an "underground" decadent lounge centrally located in Downtown Wilmington! This modern bar has a Victorian-inspired twist inspired by the KGB-era. Sip on a craft cocktail on the terrace surrounded by lights and a beautiful fountain over your spring break in Wilmington.
Enjoy fresh, local seafood while tasting a variety of craft beers in the Wrightsville Beach Brewery brewpub and beer garden, open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. every day. Take a brewery tour on Tuesdays, visit their farmers' market on Thursdays, or attend brewery yoga on Saturdays! With so many cool events and unique beers, this is a can't-miss destination for spring-breakers.
Opened in 2007 by a Sicilian family, Noni Bacca Winery is now one of the most well-known wineries in North Carolina. Wine tastings are offered seven days a week with over 70 different international award-winning wines to choose from! There is a wine here for everyone from Italian style reds to refreshing whites to scrumptious dessert wines. Reservations are required for parties of six or more.
If you're looking for a little relaxation on your spring break in Wilmington, slow down and experience the beautiful scenery the city has to offer! Make sure to visit Airlie Gardens, boasting 67 acres of walking paths, gardens, oak trees, historic structures, and contemporary sculpture. This nature lover's heaven is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily with a $9 entrance fee for adults.
Feel Good Fishing Charters & Adventures
Take onshore, nearshore, deep-sea, or fly fishing charters out of Wrightsville Beach. A charter captain will guide you through the waters and provide rods, reels, bait, and tackle. If fishing isn't your thing, take a scenic sunset tour instead! For $75 an hour, you can cruise through the sunset with up to six people. You're able to bring your own booze aboard: cue the champagne!
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
If you're anything like me, age is nothing but a number and the aquarium is still a fun thing to do! Head to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher to check out all of the sea critters your heart desires. This aquarium is known for their really unique jellyfish exhibit, so be sure to stop by that!
Spring break in Wilmington may not last forever, but there are exciting things to do in Wilmington all year round. Find them for free by registering on on 910area!
Cover photo courtesy of Ethan Robertson on Unsplash