Wrightsville Beach is a great place to work up an appetite. The lifestyle here is all about embracing the outdoors with a seemingly endless array of activities that make the most of being in, on and around the water.
There’s also no shortage of great places to eat when it’s time to rest, relax and refuel. Nothing makes a sumptuous dining experience more memorable than a great view. So, here’s our list of the best restaurants in Wrightsville Beach that are not only a treat for your palate, but also a feast for your eyes.
Bluewater Grill – This casual American restaurant offers panoramic views of the waterway from its expansive patio which is cooled by ceiling fans for pleasant waterfront dining nearly any time of the year. Located adjacent to the Wrightsville Beach Marina, Bluewater is a popular spot for boaters to dock up and grab a bite to eat. The fare ranges from hand-cut steaks to homemade desserts, with plenty of choices for seafood lovers, too. 4 Marina St.
South Beach Grill – For 17 years locals and tourists have flocked to the South Beach Grill for southern inspired meals. The restaurant is located at 100 South Lumina Ave and is accessible by car and boat (via the city’s public dock at Wynn Plaza). South Beach Grill has a patio which overlooks Banks Channel. Open for lunch and dinner. 100 South Lumina Ave
The Post – This peaceful, zen-like café is the newest place on the island to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner while gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean. Located in a quiet neighborhood on the South End, The Post offers a wide variety of bakery items, creative sandwiches and an extensive beverage menu with unusual tea blends, coffees, beer and wine. 708 S. Lumina Ave.
Oceanic – Located just across the street from The Post is one of Wrightsville Beach’s traditional dining-with-a-view favorites. Visitors come back time after time to savor the Oceanic’s unique oceanfront setting on the Crystal Pier, and a wide range of freshly prepared dishes that will please everyone at the table. 703 S. Lumina Ave.
Oceans at the Holiday Inn Resort – This is not your grandfather’s Holiday Inn restaurant. This oceanfront spot highlights gorgeous views of the beach, outstanding service and a surprisingly creative and diverse dinner menu. A great wine list rounds out a superb dining experience. 1706 N. Lumina Ave.
Bridge Tender – Breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway combine with classic southern coastal elegance at this Wrightsville Beach favorite. Bridge Tender is known for its expertly prepared seafood and steaks. Enjoy the water view inside the intimate dining room or on the patio. 1414 Airlie Rd.
Fish House Grill – Located right next door to the Bridge Tender, the Fish House Grill is a great place to go if you’re looking for fresh seafood and stunning views in a more casual setting. Situated at the foot of the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge, the Fish House deck is the perfect place to watch the boats pass by while enjoy a cold drink and a grilled fish sandwich or a bountiful seafood platter. 1410 Airlie Rd.
Dockside – This is the waterfront spot to “see and be seen” on a sunny weekend afternoon or evening. From Dockside’s big deck overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, you’ll enjoy an ever-changing vista of beautiful boats and beautiful people. The menu highlights fresh steamed shellfish and creative takes on traditional seafood favorites. 1308 Airlie Rd