The Blockade Runner Beach Resort is a towering beach resort nestled between the ocean and Wrightsville Beach on North Carolina’s Coast. The resort faces the serene oceanfront on one side and the Sound on the other, offering access to the beach and lush landscaped gardens on each end. Our recent trip to the Blockade Runner in Wilmington NC and Wrightsville Beach was overall a really good experience and these are our takeaways from our stay!
The property has been welcoming guests to Wrightsville Beach since 1964. The resort features over 120 guest rooms, each overlooking the magnificent Atlantic Ocean. Here, the water is some of the bluest in the entire state! The hotel is complemented with thoughtful decor and a collection of amenities to make your stay as comforting as possible.
Location
Blockade Runner at Wilmington NC is located a short 3-minute walk from Wrightsville Beach, named one of the South’s best beaches with its clean, spacious setting and picturesque views. The Blockade Runner resort is the go-to resort for visitors seeking accommodations near the beach. The resort will elevate your beach experience by providing unique opportunities; you can hop aboard the Carolina Runner or one of the resort’s sailboats. You can also go swimming, opt for paddle boarding or rent a kayak.
There is also an abundance of local landmarks nearby, including the Bellamy Mansion Museum and the Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier that you will enjoy exploring.
Amenities
The seven-story hotel and resort isn’t just rated one of the best oceanfront hotels for nothing; it houses plenty of modern amenities. You can choose the view you would love for your room, oceanfront or harbourfront. Nearly all rooms have balconies, plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, free high-speed internet, and more!
If you seek something uniquely luxurious, we recommend the resort’s spacious garden apartment located on the oceanfront ground floors featuring expansive bedrooms, easy access to the resort gardens and beaches, and a private oceanfront entrance.
Oceanfront Pool:
The Blockade Runner Beach Resort has a private oceanfront pool. From here, you can hear the waves while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding lush gardens. Sip on your favorite refreshing beverages or browse through the selection of small bites as you settle in your private cabana lounge. For a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience, head to the indoor jacuzzi tub or sauna.
Pros: Very clean, and the cabanas are really nice. Also close to the bar was a plus!
Oceanfront Bar:
The ocean front bar at Blockade Runner in Wilmington, NC is a hidden gem. Relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean views while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere which perfectly blends rustic coastal decor with modern comforts. Savor the flavors of a wide selection of refreshing cocktails, local craft beers, and fine wines. The bartenders were entertaining and the cocktails were, well they were very BEACH-Y!!!
Pros: Views of the pool, garden, and beach which was nice. Staff was accommodating. Cons: It was a little loud to be honest….I know, it’s a bar, but it was a little rowdier then expected.
Lush Gardens:
The resort houses the only oceanfront gardens in Wrightsville Beach, featuring a grand mix of local and seasonal flora and fauna. This is the perfect place to relax amidst the lawn loungers, hammocks, and Adirondack chairs. You can settle onto the expansive lawns for clear-cut sunrise views, enjoy a selection of lawn games, sit around the oceanfront fire pit, or partake in a refreshing morning yoga session.
Pros: Absolutely love the private cabanas!
Onsite Activities:
Blockade Runner Wrightsville Beach resort offers an assortment of onsite and waterfront activities for you to enjoy. Climb aboard its Carolina Runner for a relaxing sunset cruise, and experience scenic views and the surrounding wildlife.
If you are not familiar with sailing or boating, you can hop aboard the resort’s 14’ Hobie Catamarans or get sailing certified by accredited ASA courses. Kayaking, fishing, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing, yoga – there is plenty to do!
Pros: Everything about the beach is amazing. The water is waaaay better than areas like Charleston…some of the bluest and prettiest I have seen in the Carolinas.
On-Site Restaurant
The Blockade Runner Beach Resort offers on-site premier dining experience at EAST Oceanfront Dining – an award-winning restaurant. The beach restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week from 7 Am to 9 Pm.
The restaurant features a beautiful garden setting with a canopied seating area. You will find a solid selection of coastal foods (can confirm their cocktail shrimp is very good), fresh local seafood, house-made desserts, and an all-day kids’ menu.
You get your coffee here too (which is delicious but odd there seemed to be no free/included coffee options provided by the hotel).
If you are not up for a full meal but simply want to start your day with a drink, you can also find a fine selection of wines, champagnes, cocktails, and draft beers.
Pros: I ordered the steak and it was cooked PERFECTLY…and that is not hyperbole. Highly recommend their NY Strip! Cons: Music could’ve been louder. You could hear a pindrop/other table’s conversations easily.
Things To Do Near The Blockade Runner Beach Resort
Wrightsville Beach Museum of History:
Visit this small museum that tells you the history of Wrightsville Beach through the years. Explore the collection of exhibits or join one of the yearly annual events that celebrate the community and the people within.
Crystal Pier
Stroll at the Crystal Pier to spot dolphins, stingrays, and abundant marine wildlife.
Airlie Gardens
Visit the 67-acre Airlie Gardens, a set of beautifully cared-for gardens with paved walkways, blooming flowers, large trees, and breathtaking views.
Cameron Art Museum
The Cameron Art Museum is a lively cultural center located in Wilmington, NC, that honors the immense world of art. The museum’s dedication to showcasing the art of local and regional artists is evident in its changing exhibitions that highlight the abundant talent of North Carolina. Offering extensive galleries and carefully selected displays, the Cameron Art Museum delivers a mesmerizing sensory experience for art lovers of any age.
Bellamy Mansion Museum
This 10,000-square-foot, 22-room mansion is a popular museum of history and design arts. Take a self-guided tour to study its stunning neoclassic style architecture.
Downtown Wilmington and The Riverwalk
The Wilmington Riverwalk is a must! The boardwalk offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. As you take a stroll, you’ll discover Wilmington’s maritime heritage, picturesque views of the river, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings. You can observe the busy river traffic, including impressive sailboats and ships. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops here. There’s even some wierd things to do here like the Museum of the Bizarre. The river cruises are a great option too! You get stories about Wilmington plus views of the Battleship North Carolina. Then walk around the historic and charming streets of the city and take it all in. For restaurant options here we enjoyed Circa 1922 and manna (the oysters here were out of this world)!
Looking for more fun things to do in Wilmington NC, read this!
What We Love About The Blockade Runner In Wilmington NC
- PRIME beachfront location
- Serene views of the ocean and sound at all ends of the property
- Gorgeous, lush gardens and communal areas plus the private cabanas to hang out in.
- Attractive rooms with epic balcony views
- BLUEST WATER!!!
For more fun things to do in Wilmington NC on a sunny day, click here!
