Trailborn Surf & Sound Blog
Best Restaurants in Wrightsville Beach, NC
Wrightsville Beach is known for its sparkling shoreline, active surf culture, and laid-back coastal charm—but the food scene is just as impressive as the views. From casual seafood shacks to upscale dining overlooking the water, the town’s restaurants make it easy to savor the flavors of coastal Carolina.
Whether you’re on a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a surf trip with friends, there are plenty of delicious restaurants in Wrightsville Beach, NC to keep you fueled. And if you’re staying at Trailborn Surf & Sound, ou’ll be just minutes from many of these local favorites—the perfect base to eat, explore, and unwind.
This guide highlights the best restaurants in Wrightsville Beach, NC, including seafood spots, waterfront dining, international flavors, and dog-friendly patios.
La Duna Paradiso
Located right at Trailborn Surf & Sound, La Duna Paradiso brings the spirit of coastal Italy to Wrightsville Beach. Serving breakfast and dinner, the restaurant blends fresh North Carolina seafood with Mediterranean flavors, craft cocktails, and warm Southern hospitality. The vibrant dining room and outdoor deck make it an ideal spot to start or end your day by the water.
- Specialties: Coastal Italian cuisine, local seafood, house-made pasta, and seasonal cocktails.
- Why go: Elevated coastal fare just steps from your room.
- Best for: Breakfast or dinner without ever leaving the property.
Oceanic Restaurant – A Wrightsville Beach Icon
When people search for Oceanic Restaurant Wrightsville Beach, NC, they’re looking for one of the area’s most iconic dining experiences. Perched directly on the Crystal Pier, Oceanic serves fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes with unbeatable oceanfront views. It’s the kind of place where you linger over your meal just to take it all in.
- Specialties: Local seafood, shrimp & grits, and seasonal catches.
- Why go: Unbeatable oceanfront views, especially at sunset.
- Best for: Visitors looking for a quintessential Wrightsville Beach experience.
Dockside Restaurant – Waterfront Dining
If dining by the water is at the top of your list, Dockside Restaurant Wrightsville Beach delivers. Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, Dockside has been a local staple for decades, serving classic coastal dishes in a laid-back, family-friendly setting. Watching boats drift by while you enjoy oysters or crab cakes is the perfect way to end a beach day.
- Specialties: Oysters, crab cakes, and fresh local catches.
- Why go: Classic “on-the-water” Wrightsville vibe.
- Best for: A casual seafood dinner with a view.
Seafood Restaurants in Wrightsville Beach, NC
Seafood is the heart of Wrightsville Beach’s dining scene. From elevated coastal cuisine to casual oyster bars, these restaurants highlight the best of local fisheries and seasonal ingredients—each offering a true taste of the coast.
- Bluewater Waterfront Grill: Fresh seafood, live music, and big marina views.
- South Beach Grill: Local seafood with a Southern twist.
- Flying Machine Oyster Bar: A fun, laid-back stop for oysters, shrimp, and cold beer.
These are easy contenders for the best seafood restaurants in Wrightsville Beach.
Italian & International Flavors
Not every night has to be seafood. Wrightsville Beach also offers excellent Italian, Mexican, and globally inspired cuisine. Whether you’re craving wood-fired pizza after a long day in the sun or a lively Latin-style meal, these restaurants add variety to your stay.
- Pizzeria Il Forno: Wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and cozy Italian charm.
- Ceviche’s: Latin-inspired seafood and creative small plates just over the bridge.
- Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill: A local favorite for tacos and fresh Baja flavors.
These spots bring a global twist to coastal dining.
Top Restaurants for a Special Night Out
When you’re in the mood for something elevated, Wrightsville Beach delivers. Whether it’s a date night, a celebration, or just a treat-yourself evening, these restaurants combine local flavor with coastal elegance.
- Oceanic: Relaxed, oceanfront, and perfect for a romantic evening.
- The Bridge Tender: Marina views, craft cocktails, and an extensive menu.
- Jerry’s Food Wine and Spirits: Intimate, fresh, and beloved by locals for its consistency.
These restaurants set the scene for memorable evenings in Wrightsville Beach.
Final Thoughts
From iconic spots like Oceanic to casual oyster bars and refined waterfront dining, Wrightsville Beach offers something for every appetite. Whether you’re grabbing lunch after surfing, enjoying a romantic dinner, or relaxing with your pup on the patio, the food here never disappoints.
And with Trailborn Surf & Sound as your home base, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore it all. Just minutes from the beach and Wrightsville’s best restaurants, the hotel combines modern comfort with coastal charm – giving you a welcoming place to return after every meal and adventure.
So if you’re planning where to eat in Wrightsville Beach, NC, this guide is just the beginning. Come hungry, stay local, and let Trailborn make the experience even more memorable.
