Snow-Free Fun During Your Wilmington Winter Vacation

It’s business as usual during your Coastal North Carolina vacation because winter in Wilmington is hardly noticeable. With mild temperatures averaging in the 50s and 60s and more than half a decade since the last major snowstorm in Wilmington, this is finally a winter vacation where you can leave your snow boots and heavy coasts behind!

Sea Scape Properties has many beach vacation rentals near Wilmington offering seasonal discounts for snowbirds seeking an escape this winter. Plan your winter getaway with these can’t-miss activities to make the most of the great weather.

Visit the Beach

Most people are used to seeing white snow covering the ground during winter. But imagine waking up in one of our oceanfront properties to the stunning scenery of white sand beaches. Posting beach photos in the middle of the winter will truly shock all your social media followers. Still, it can be your everyday reality when visiting the Wilmington area this winter.

Wilmington is a short drive from the best beach destinations in North Carolina—Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach. Spend time enjoying the empty beaches and strolling the boardwalks. Pets are also permitted on the beaches during this off-season.

Heads up, the ocean waters still get chilly. But that doesn’t stop dedicated surfers who manage with wetsuits.

Enjoy riverfront dining

Snow-free days aren’t the only defining characteristics of a Wilmington winter. This season also gets significantly less tourist traffic compared to the summer. Not only are the beaches less crowded, but it’s also the perfect time to snag the best seats at the popular local restaurants.

Waterfront dining is one of the popular things to do in Wilmington during the winter. The Wilmington Riverwalk features more than 40 restaurants set on the Cape Fear River. Dining at either of these during the winter gives the best chance of getting the coveted waterside seating—even without a reservation.

Stay updated on your favorite sports teams during your winter vacation in Wilmington at these top local sports bars.

Take a riverboat cruise

Since the Cape Fear River doesn’t freeze over during the winter, the iconic riverboat cruises get to operate all year long! Wilmington Water Tours and Cape Fear Riverboats provide sightseeing tours and special holiday cruises.

These narrated tours spotlight notable landmarks while cruising past the Wilmington skyline and tell exciting stories about its history. It’s also one of the best places to see Christmas lights during the holiday season. With fewer boat passengers during the winter, it’s a more personal experience to connect with your captain. It will feel like your own charter!

Bring a sweater or light jacket to stay cozy on the open-air deck.

Indulge in winter wellness and leisure

As the old adage goes: “Work hard, play hard.” Whether closing out the year with a winter holiday vacation or an early year escape, your getaway is a great way to refresh and refocus for improved productivity. The Wilmington area makes it easy to unwind.

Practice mindfulness during a session of beach yoga. Relieve your stress during a round on one of Wilmington’s golf courses. Take it easy during a spa day. Enjoy the moment with fishing at one of our iconic fishing piers.

Our local vacation rental homes inspire R&R with amenities like pool and beach access, community tennis courts, and more.

Attend winter season shows at Thalian Hall Center for Performing Arts

Get cultured this winter season at the Thailand Hall Center for Performing Arts. This historic venue has been around for more than 150 years, and the shows get even better each season! Not only is this one of the most beautiful theaters you’ll find in North Carolina, but it also hosts world-class live performances.

Local actors and musicians have been hard at work all year preparing for their annual winter lineup of shows. Pick up tickets at the box office and get ready for an unforgettable performance. Check out the events calendar to see what’s playing during your Wilmington stay.

Check out holiday-inspired events

The most wonderful time of the year to visit Wilmington is during the winter holiday season. The town lights up with Christmas decorations, and several events entertain the entire family during your holiday vacation.

You can expect a tree-lighting ceremony and reindeer trolley rides for Christmas, and glamourous parties to ring in the new year. Check out this post to see the latest events happening in the coastal North Carolina area during the holidays.

Find Great Deals on Your Winter Stay in Wilmington

Whether you’re a snowbird seeking an extended stay in warmer weather or planning a fun winter weekend vacation with your family, the coastal North Carolina area is the perfect destination. It’s the off-season in Coastal North Carolina, so our beach vacation rentals near Wilmington offer excellent rates compared to other times of the year. Book today and seize the season.

Looking for more great things to do in the area during the winter? Check out our recommendations for fun Carolina Beach winter activities.