Tired of the political hustle? Sometimes, the best strategy is a total retreat. That’s exactly what my husband and I did with a week-long escape to Wilmington, North Carolina. Just a six-hour drive from Washington, DC, this coastal city is the perfect place to trade policy for ocean breezes and deadlines for a good book. Driving gave us the freedom to explore everything from the heart of downtown to the laid-back beaches.
We based ourselves in Carolina Beach (cover photo, Instagram), a relaxed and budget-friendly alternative to some of the more upscale areas. Our home base was the Starlite Inn, a charmingly updated motor lodge that gave us easy access to the beach and a perfect spot to wash off the sand after a long day.
Beach Days and Morning Rituals
Our days began with a stroll from our inn to the beach for a cup of coffee from Majik Beanz, which opens bright and early for fellow early birds. We spent a couple of glorious days under our umbrella, watching surfers catch waves and unwinding completely.
The Carolina Beach Boardwalk was a definite highlight. We couldn’t resist carnival treats like blooming onions and even indulged in a single, perfectly crispy, made-to-order donut from Beach Break Donut. While we enjoyed small bites at other spots, the real star was The Southerly Biscuit and Pie. We went back twice for their incredible brisket sandwich and delicious biscuits.
Uncovering Local Treasures
Wilmington is a haven for those who love to wander. We spent hours antiquing, with favorites including The Village at Wilmington and Ivy Cottage. For fresh seafood, we stopped by Seaview Crab Company—a must-visit if you have a cooler! We also found farm-fresh goods at Bigger’s Market.
When we needed a break from the sun, we caught a movie at the Regal Mayfaire, located in a plaza with other popular stores like Pottery Barn and Barnes & Noble.
Downtown Delights and Riverfront Views
Exploring downtown Wilmington, we were greeted by the majestic Battleship North Carolina overlooking the Cape Fear Riverfront. The historic Cotton Exchange was a true find, filled with unique shops like Port City Pottery and Fine Gifts. We also discovered Modern Legend, a fantastic record store, and the one-of-a-kind Wicked Bull Trading Post.
For an unforgettable dining experience, we had dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and watched the sunset over the battleship—pure magic. We also joined a fun trivia night at Bowstring Brewery, a historic venue with a lively atmosphere.
Wrightsville Beach & Coastal Flavors
No Wilmington trip is complete without visiting Wrightsville Beach. We grabbed a meal at the new La Duna Paradiso, where the locally caught red snapper was truly outstanding. We also drove around to the south end and found a cool vibe at Southend Surf Shop and the cafe above it, Sundays.
All in all, Wilmington was the perfect getaway to unplug and recharge. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and endless spots to explore, it’s a place that invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
What are some of your favorite places to escape the city grind?
