The 8 Best Resorts in Wilmington, NC | Hand-Picked for 2025
We looked through all the available retreats and found the best resorts in Wilmington NC, including several beachfront gems tucked along Wrightsville Beach that give you that full-package feeling without being mega-resorts.
Now, it’s true that Wilmington doesn’t exactly overflow with traditional, sprawling resorts, yet we discovered a combination of polished retreats and beachfront properties that practically deliver the same all-in-one experience, with pools, spas, and on-site dining, all without requiring you to ever leave the property.
Table of Contents
Our Methodology
To put together this guide of the best resorts Wilmington has to offer, we researched dozens of properties labeled as resorts in Wilmington North Carolina and nearby beach towns.
We cross-referenced guest reviews from Google Reviews, Expedia, and TripAdvisor, looked into amenities, on-site dining, family-friendliness, and overall guest experiences to choose the best Wilmington resorts that function more or less like all inclusive resorts Wilmington NC travelers are often hoping for.
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The 8 Best Wilmington Resorts for 2025
8. Sandpeddler Inn & Suites
Key Highlights:
- Directly across from Wrightsville Beach’s south end access
- All-suite boutique setup with private balconies
- Walking distance to Oceanic Pier and Crystal Pier
Sandpeddler Inn & Suites is practically what you’d call a relaxed coastal nook that’s basically built for laid-back trips and small-group escapes.
You’re looking at a compact, condo-style resort just steps from Wrightsville Beach, which, by the way, is one of the most scenic areas for anyone seeking beachfront resorts in Wilmington NC with minimal fuss and excellent access to the ocean breeze.
The suites are all individually owned but managed together, and they each come with a kitchenette, a separate living area, and that little cherry on top, a private balcony for enjoying sunrises or just zoning out after a beach day.
It’s definitely not flashy, yet it’s clean, peaceful, and downright comfortable in a way that feels more like staying at a friend’s beach condo than anything else.
There’s a modest outdoor pool for those who want a change from the saltwater, and while there’s no on-site restaurant, you’re within walking distance of Oceanic Restaurant, which sits right on Crystal Pier and serves up seafood with unbeatable views.
It’s almost the kind of resort where simplicity becomes the main selling point, especially for families or couples looking for a no-drama beachfront setup.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
7. Beau Rivage Golf & Resort – Most Affordable
Key Highlights:
- Spacious suites with kitchenettes and living areas
- 18-hole championship golf course
- Roughly 6 miles from Wrightsville Beach
Beau Rivage Golf & Resort is probably one of the more unexpected Wilmington resorts you’ll come across, especially when you’re after value without cutting out key features like space and convenience.
Located just outside central Wilmington and not far from Wrightsville Beach, this resort doubles as a full-service golf retreat, and yet it remains surprisingly affordable.
The vibe here is distinctly Southern coastal with a side of country club charm, think manicured greens, palm trees, and a white-columned clubhouse at the heart of it all.
The suites are larger than you might expect at this price point, giving you room to breathe with a kitchenette, a living area, and balconies or patios that overlook the course.
The property includes a pool and tennis courts, and while it’s not packed with spa amenities or multiple restaurants, the on-site clubhouse serves breakfast and lunch and makes an effort to offer local beer and wine.
Honestly, if you’re scouting all inclusive resorts Wilmington NC visitors rave about in terms of affordability and access to recreational activities, this one hits all the right notes.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
6. Shell Island Resort
Key Highlights:
- Every suite is oceanfront with balcony views
- Indoor and outdoor pool combo
- On-site restaurant and beach access
Shell Island Resort is basically the closest thing to what most people mean when they say they want beachfront resorts in Wilmington NC with everything under one roof.
Set at the northern tip of Wrightsville Beach, this all-suite resort gives you those picture-perfect Atlantic Ocean views from every single room, which, by the way, all come with kitchenettes and living spaces for longer stays or families who need space.
The property includes an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and even a fitness room, not a huge one, but solid enough for a vacation workout.
There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, so you’re not stuck scrambling to find meals after a long day in the sun.
With a gentle beach just steps from your door, Shell Island becomes that kind of laid-back destination where families and couples mix comfortably, and where the staff is used to helping you plan everything from paddleboarding to sunset cruises.
And it’s only about 10 to 15 minutes from downtown Wilmington, which is great when you want to balance beachfront relaxation with a little city action.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
5. Trailborn Surf & Sound
Key Highlights:
- Opened in 2024 with sleek mid-century coastal design
- Outdoor pool with fire pits and loungers
- Steps from Wrightsville Beach and Causeway Park
Trailborn Surf & Sound is that kind of trendy coastal retreat you book when the aesthetics matter almost as much as the location.
Opened in 2024, this boutique resort sits right near the Intracoastal Waterway and Wrightsville Beach, and it’s got that modern retro vibe that Instagram basically loves.
The property includes an outdoor pool area that feels more like a casual beach club, with sun loungers, shaded cabanas, and fire pits for evening hangs.
The rooms are streamlined but cool, think hardwood floors, rattan decor, colorful artwork, and upgraded linens.
There’s an on-site café that leans into healthy breakfast options and local coffee, and while the food and beverage scene isn’t extensive, it’s absolutely intentional and locally driven.
Being so close to the marina and paddleboard rental shops makes this a prime choice for active travelers who want to explore the water while still being close to the best resorts in Wilmington NC that pack personality and charm.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
4. Verandas
Key Highlights:
- Historic Victorian-style inn in downtown Wilmington
- Only 8 rooms with luxury decor and antique touches
- Walking distance to Riverwalk and downtown eateries
Verandas is more or less the definition of intimate elegance, and it’s right in the heart of Wilmington’s historic downtown.
Now, while this is technically a luxury bed-and-breakfast, the service level and all-in-one hospitality absolutely earn it a spot among the best Wilmington resorts on this list.
The mansion was originally built in the 1850s and today offers just eight unique rooms, each designed with period furniture, luxe linens, and vintage artwork.
You’re not going to find a pool or a spa here, but the level of hospitality is off the charts, with complimentary gourmet breakfast and evening wine hours served in the garden or drawing room.
The real perk is location, you’re steps from the Riverwalk, within walking distance of restaurants like Caprice Bistro, and close enough to enjoy everything from local art galleries to historic carriage tours without ever needing a car.
So if you’re searching for resorts in Wilmington NC that pack charm, elegance, and personal service into every detail, this one’s got it nailed down tight.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
3. Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton – Best-Seller
Key Highlights:
- Located directly on the Cape Fear Riverwalk
- 277 rooms with river or city views
- Saltwater pool and on-site Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Hotel Ballast is clearly one of the most complete full-service Wilmington resorts you’ll find inside the city itself, and frankly, it’s a guest favorite for good reason.
Part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, this downtown property sits right along the Cape Fear Riverwalk, giving you instant access to Wilmington’s best dining and nightlife options while still offering enough on-site features to feel like a self-contained retreat.
The rooms here range from standard queens to upgraded river-facing suites, and many have modern updates with pops of local artwork and thoughtful touches like rainfall showers and plush robes.
There’s a sleek saltwater pool surrounded by patio loungers, and a small but modern fitness center for getting your steps in before heading out to the breweries or shops nearby.
On-site dining includes Buffalo Bayou Café for casual eats and a Ruth’s Chris Steak House for special occasions, which, in a way, helps this feel like one of the more authentic all inclusive resorts Wilmington NC visitors can book in the city center.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
2. Dreamers – Top Value Pick
Key Highlights:
- Stylish micro-resort feel near Wrightsville Beach
- Outdoor pool with loungers, umbrellas, and games
- Rooms feature design-forward decor and full kitchens
Dreamers brings a sort of playful, boho-luxe feel that really stands out among other resorts in Wilmington North Carolina, especially when you’re after style without breaking the bank.
This spot is fairly small but packed with character, sitting just minutes from the waterfront and less than 10 minutes from Wrightsville Beach.
The rooms feel like mini-studios, complete with kitchenettes, colorful decor, and plush seating areas, which make it easy to stay a few nights or even a full week.
The property has a pool that feels more boutique than resort-sized, yet it’s perfect for lazy afternoon lounging or a post-beach dip.
There’s a shared outdoor kitchen setup with grills, cornhole boards, and comfy chairs around fire pits, creating a casual community vibe that’s super welcoming for families, couples, or solo travelers.
It’s not huge, but it’s smart, and for anyone looking for Wilmington resorts that balance affordability and design, this is absolutely the one to beat.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
1. Homewood Suites By Hilton Wilmington – Top Overall
Key Highlights:
- Full suites with kitchens, living areas, and dining tables
- Complimentary breakfast and weeknight socials
- Outdoor pool and close to Mayfaire and Wrightsville Beach
Topping the list of best resorts in Wilmington NC is Homewood Suites By Hilton, which, while technically a suite hotel, feels practically like an all inclusive resort in terms of convenience, amenities, and guest experience.
This resort-style hotel is less than 10 minutes from Wrightsville Beach and a quick drive to downtown Wilmington, offering the perfect middle ground for travelers who want both beach and city without committing fully to either.
The suites are downright spacious, with full kitchens, seating areas, dining spaces, and even work desks for those mixing business with beach time.
There’s a large outdoor pool, barbecue patio, and a basketball court, giving guests more to do on-site than many traditional resorts.
The daily complimentary breakfast includes hot items, and there’s a free evening social most weekdays with wine, beer, and snacks, which makes it feel more like an all inclusive resort in Wilmington NC.
At the end of the day, it’s the combination of value, space, and proximity to everything that makes this the best resort in Wilmington North Carolina.
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
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