House & Vacation Rentals in Wilmington

With its splendid coastal location, much of the cuisine here is centered around seafood. Wilmington restaurants also incorporate many flavors originating from southern America making the range of dishes both delicious and unique. For a casual seafood lunch, local favorites include The Boathouse and Carolina Fish Fry, serving up hearty plates of home-style cooking at affordable prices. Boca Bay is a little more upscale and is an excellent choice for an evening meal - choose to dine either inside or on the covered patio.

For some of the most original dishes in town head to 22 North. The ever-changing daily menu reflects not only what is in season, but also what is available at local markets that very day. The fish-based restaurant Catch is another eatery which sources all its ingredients from local farms and is headed by the esteemed chef Keith Rhodes.

A holiday rental in Wilmington is a superb base for enjoying this sun-kissed corner of North Carolina. Golden beaches and sweeping boardwalks are yours to explore during the warm summer months, when light clothing is required. As well as beachwear for the daytime, light clothes and comfortable shoes are a must for attending evening concerts and heading out for alfresco dinners at the beach-side restaurants. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also essentials when traveling in the summer months, when temperatures regularly reach the mid-80s.

During the shoulder seasons of early spring and late autumn, temperatures can be noticeably cooler, especially in the evenings. If you book a Wilmington rental home during these periods, it is advisable to pack long trousers and a jacket for the evening. With its opportunities for outdoor pursuits, boots, and other hiking wear is recommended if you plan on exploring on foot. Whenever you decide to visit Wilmington, a light raincoat may be necessary to stay dry in the occasional but sometimes unpredictable showers.

The launch site of Wilbur and Orville's first successful aeroplane flight is an an important historic location. Visit the birthplace of aviation at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. A boulder marks the 1903 feat of engineering and a fascinating visitor's center brings it to life. The Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is the location of the lost colony of 116 British explorers who disappeared from their Roanoke Island settlement. Between May and August you can see a musical reenactment staged at the visitor center.

It is only appropriate that you face your fears whilst in Cape Fear. Visitors are fascinated by the Serpentarium where giant constrictors and crocodiles can be observed safely behind glass. Presented by the herpetologist Dean Ripa, you will gain insights into these amazing creatures. Kids will be enthralled by the live feedings on weekends at 3pm.

Sitting alongside the historic neighborhood and river district are three fantastic beaches, all of which have their own unique characteristics. Carolina Beach offers a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere and has the added benefit of being close to the amenities of town. It also hosts many events across the summer months. Wrightsville Beach is the region's premier water sports destination, being voted one of the world's best surf destinations. As well as kayaking, surfing and paddleboarding opportunities, wellness facilities such as spas and massage services are also plentiful, so there's something to suit everyone.

For unparalleled beauty, there is no better choice than Kure for a beach rental. Small but with a lot of charm, this quaint beach town is known for having the Atlantic's oldest fishing pier. Animal demonstrations and live feeding programs also take place at the nearby NC Aquarium.

USS North Carolina (BB-55)

This United States Navy battleship was the lead ship of the North Carolina class. She served from 1941 to 1947 and participated in the Second World War, as well as major missions in the Pacific. Today the ship is a museum.

Airlie Gardens

These gardens are home to the 467-year-old Arlie Oak, as well as views of Bradley Creek, ten acres of freshwater lakes, and over 100,000 azaleas. These long established formal gardens are full of walking trails, wildlife and historic structures and sculptures that you and your social media followers will love.

Bellamy Mansion

A historic example of antebellum architecture, this 150-year-old house represents the cutting edge of style and technology of its day. It is now a museum of history and design arts, hosting lectures and workshops throughout the year as well as temporary exhibits.

Cape Fear Museum

North Carolina's oldest museum, the Museum of History and Science first opened its doors in 1898. The collection spans regional, national and international art, history and science artifacts but recently gained a more local focus.

Thalian Hall

One of the United States' oldest theaters, Thalian Hall has been in almost continuous use since it first opened in 1858. Each year it stages over 250 events, shows and films. Events held at the hall range from ballet to pop, folk and jazz and independent cinema. There is something for everyone at this reverend playhouse.