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Wrightsville Beach History

Wrightsville Beach is a town located in New Hanover County, North Carolina, USA. The town is situated on a barrier island that separates the Atlantic Ocean from the mainland. It has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries.

The area where Wrightsville Beach is now located was first inhabited by Native Americans, particularly the Cape Fear and Waccamaw tribes. The Spanish were the first Europeans to explore the area, with Juan Pardo arriving in 1566. However, the first European settlement was not established until the early 1700s.

In the early 1800s, Wrightsville Beach was known as "Ocean View" and was a popular spot for fishing and hunting. However, the town did not truly begin to develop until the late 1800s when a businessman named Henry Bacon bought a large tract of land on the island and began to develop it into a resort community. Bacon built the first hotel on the island, which attracted wealthy visitors from across the country.

In the early 1900s, Wrightsville Beach continued to grow as a resort destination. The Lumina Pavilion, a large entertainment center, was built in 1905 and became a popular destination for dancing, concerts, and other events. The beach also became a popular location for sports, with surfing and fishing becoming popular pastimes.

During World War II, Wrightsville Beach played an important role as a training ground for military personnel. The Army used the beach and surrounding area for amphibious training, and many soldiers trained there before being sent overseas.

Wrightsville Beach Top Tourist Attractions

Wrightsville Beach is a popular tourist destination located in North Carolina, USA. The area boasts a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Wrightsville Beach:

• Wrightsville Beach: Of course, the main attraction in Wrightsville Beach is the beach itself. With miles of pristine white sand and crystal clear waters, it's the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, and relax.
• Johnnie Mercer's Pier: This historic pier is a favorite among fishermen and sightseers alike. It stretches out over the ocean and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Wrightsville Beach Park: This park is a great place to enjoy a picnic, play some volleyball, or take a walk along the waterfront. It's also home to a playground for children.
• Blockade Runner Beach Resort: This luxury resort offers a wide range of amenities, including a spa, pool, and restaurants. It's a great place to stay if you're looking for a relaxing getaway.
• Airlie Gardens: Located just a short drive from Wrightsville Beach, Airlie Gardens is a stunning 67-acre botanical garden that features a wide variety of plants and flowers. It's a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.
• Masonboro Island Reserve: This undeveloped barrier island is a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins.
• Wrightsville SUP: Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fun and unique way to explore the waters around Wrightsville Beach. Wrightsville SUP offers rentals, lessons, and guided tours for visitors of all skill levels.
• Wrightsville Beach Museum of History: This small museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Wrightsville Beach and the surrounding area. It features exhibits on local culture, marine life, and more.

Overall, Wrightsville Beach is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the North Carolina coast. With its stunning beaches, charming parks, and exciting attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Wrightsville Beach Climate

Wrightsville Beach has a humid subtropical climate, which means that it has hot summers and mild winters. The area experiences an average of 215 sunny days per year, making it a great destination for outdoor activities and beach vacations.

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures typically range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (28-33°C), with high humidity levels. Thunderstorms are common during the summer, especially in the afternoon and evening.

In the fall (September to November), temperatures begin to cool down, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C). The fall is a popular time to visit Wrightsville Beach, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller than in the summer.

Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (12-16°C). While snow is rare, it's not unheard of, and the area can experience occasional freezing temperatures. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Wrightsville Beach, with temperatures warming up and flowers beginning to bloom. Highs range from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (16-24°C), and the area experiences less rain than in the summer.

Wrightsville Beach Geography

Wrightsville Beach is a barrier island located off the coast of North Carolina, USA. It is situated between the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. The island is approximately 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) long and half a mile (0.8 kilometers) wide.

The northern end of the island is home to a large commercial district with shops, restaurants, and accommodations. The southern end of the island is more residential and features a mix of single-family homes and multi-unit complexes.

Wrightsville Beach is known for its wide, sandy beaches, which are popular with both tourists and locals. The beach is separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway, which is a narrow body of water that is used for boating and other recreational activities.

In addition to the beach, Wrightsville Beach is home to several parks and nature preserves, including Masonboro Island Reserve and Airlie Gardens. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Overall, the geography of Wrightsville Beach is characterized by its coastal location, sandy beaches, and mix of commercial and residential development.