Finding Yourself Again: A Post-Breakup Escape to Wilmington & Wrightsville Beach

• Wrightsville Beach: Wrightsville Beach is the ultimate destination for a serene seaside experience. It is made even more magical by its breathtaking sunrises — truly unlike any other in the US. For my clients, I offer exclusive access to a special, secluded section of the beach that feels like your own private oasis. This tranquil spot is rich with sea life, features calm waves and boasts crystal-clear water where you can sit and unwind in total peace. When you book with me, I’ll share personalized directions to this hidden gem, ensuring your experience is as exclusive as it is unforgettable.

• Bald Head Island: For a truly exclusive experience, take a 30-minute ferry ride on the Deep Point Ferry to Bald Head Island. Which is a semi-private paradise where cars are not allowed, making it the perfect place to unwind. The island is a tropical escape with pristine, tranquil beaches that feel almost entirely private due to its limited visitors. Once there, you can explore by bicycle, golf cart or e-bike. A must-visit spot is Jailhouse Provisions, just a short cart ride or bike ride from the port, known for its amazing cocktails and plenty of golf cart parking. Bald Head Island is also known for its abundance of conch shells — on my first trip there, I found three! To cap off your day, head to Jules' Salty Grub & Island Pub for incredible margaritas and a friendly, welcoming staff before catching the ferry back.

• Greenfield Park: Nestled in Wilmington, Greenfield Park is a serene retreat that offers the perfect mix of nature and outdoor fun. Stroll or bike along the scenic trails that wind through lush landscapes, with the stunning sight of Spanish moss hanging from the trees above. At the heart of the park is Greenfield Lake, where you can rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the calm waters, surrounded by abundant wildlife, including turtles. The park also features a skate park, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re unwinding by the lake or getting active, Greenfield Park offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

• Carolina Beach: Carolina Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. It has a pet-friendly beach that’s ideal for those traveling with furry companions. From September to April, the beach is fully pet-friendly. From May to September, pets are welcome before 9 am and after 5 pm, making it a great spot for early morning or evening walks. When you’re not soaking up the sun, explore the area’s fantastic pubs and restaurants. A standout is The Lazy Pirate Sports Grill and Axe Throwing, my favorite place in Carolina Beach. It has a fun outdoor bar with a lively atmosphere and great food and drinks. Whether you’re hanging out on the beach or enjoying a meal with friends, Carolina Beach has something for everyone.

• Axes & Allies: For a unique and exciting activity, head to Axes and Allies in Wilmington. This axe-throwing venue offers not only the thrill of learning a fun new skill but also exceptional customer service that makes every visit memorable. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned thrower, the friendly and welcoming staff are always on hand to guide you and ensure you have an amazing time. It's the perfect way to challenge yourself, let loose and enjoy a fun-filled outing with top-notch service to match!

• Wilmington Riverfront: The Wilmington Riverfront is the perfect spot to explore a mix of delightful shops, boutiques and unique finds. While I’ll dive into the restaurants and bars later, the thing here deserves its own spotlight. Don’t miss Papercut Books, easily the cutest bookstore I’ve ever visited, where you can find everything from novels to niche treasures. Krazy Mike’s is a quirky gift and T-shirt shop that always surprises with its fun and random selection. For something playful, stop by The Black Cat Shoppe, filled with hilarious gag gifts and charming trinkets that make the perfect souvenirs. The riverfront’s lively yet relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for browsing, people-watching or simply enjoying the scenic views along the water.

• The Cotton Exchange: Step into Wilmington's past with a visit to The Cotton Exchange. It is a beautifully restored historic building that now houses a variety of unique shops and boutiques. With its cobblestone paths, charming courtyards and fascinating architecture, this shopping destination offers more than just retail therapy — it’s an experience. Wander through the eclectic stores, discover one-of-a-kind treasures and soak in the timeless charm of this iconic Wilmington landmark. Whether you're looking for gifts, keepsakes or a touch of history, The Cotton Exchange is a must-visit.

• Airlie Gardens: Airlie Gardens is a breathtaking oasis that perfectly showcases the natural beauty of Wilmington. Stroll through pathways lined with majestic trees draped in enchanting Spanish moss, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and charm. One of the garden’s hidden gems is a quaint pond where friendly turtles — typically 3 to 5 — will swim right up to you, offering a delightful interaction with nature. Don’t miss the enchanting Butterfly House, where you can marvel at vibrant butterflies in a serene and captivating environment. Whether you’re a lover of lush gardens or seeking a peaceful retreat, Airlie Gardens is an unforgettable experience.

Breakfast:

• Sweet and Savory Cafe: This is a must-visit for breakfast or brunch. Their mimosa flights are absolutely incredible and a perfect way to elevate your morning. While their lunch and dinner offerings don’t quite measure up to their stellar breakfast menu, the morning meals here are worth every bite. Keep in mind that this spot gets quite busy, so making a reservation ahead of time is highly recommended.

• East Oceanfront Dining: For a peaceful and scenic brunch, East Oceanfront Dining at the Blockade Runner Hotel in Wrightsville Beach is an absolute gem. Just steps from the beach, the charming walkway and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind. The shrimp cocktail here is a standout, and the patio dining is simply incredible. On top of the delicious food, you may even be treated to a live string quartet in the mornings, creating a serene and elegant ambiance. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch with a view!

• Brunches at Randall: For a cozy and delightful brunch experience, Brunches at Randall is a local favorite. This charming spot offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to savor a leisurely meal. The menu is full of delicious options that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. Whether you’re in the mood for classic brunch fare or something a little more unique, this is a go-to spot to start your day in Wilmington.

Lunch and dinner:

• Floriana: One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Wilmington is Floriana, located right on the riverfront. If you're visiting during the warmer months, you must make a reservation for the intimate patio seating for two — it’s a special experience. If you can't snag a patio spot, I recommend sitting at the downstairs bar as the service upstairs can sometimes be slower. Their menu is filled with delicious options, and I highly recommend the duck breast, lamb gnocchi and Tortelloni Mignon. However, I’d steer clear of the lasagna and black gnocchi — they didn’t quite hit the mark for me.

• Beer Barrio: For a laid-back spot with great food and drinks, Beer Barrio is a Wilmington must-try. Not only do they offer a fantastic selection of beers, but their burritos are still some of my favorites of all time. The combination of flavors and generous portion sizes make it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Whether you're pairing your burrito with a craft brew or enjoying it on its own, Beer Barrio is always a solid choice when you're craving something satisfying and delicious.

• I Heart NY Pizza: When you're in downtown Wilmington and craving a laid-back, late-night bite, I Heart NY Pizza is the spot. Serving up authentic thin-crust New York-style pizza, it's perfect for grabbing a quick slice while bar-hopping or exploring the shops downtown. There’s no indoor seating, but a few outdoor tables are available if you want to sit and enjoy your pizza. You order directly from the window, making it an easy and casual stop. It’s hands down my go-to for a quick and delicious bite when I’m out downtown.

• Slice of Life: For a pizza option with a denser crust and a unique flavor profile, Slice of Life stands out in Wilmington. Unlike other spots, they offer plenty of seating, making it a great place to relax and enjoy your meal. Whether you're in the mood for a solo slice or a whole pie, Slice of Life delivers on flavor and atmosphere. It's perfect for a casual hangout or satisfying your pizza cravings after exploring the town.

• Tower Seven Baja Mexican Grill: This is a must-visit for anyone craving flavorful, fresh Mexican food with a beachy vibe. Their queso is absolutely delicious — rich, creamy and the perfect start to your meal. Once you’ve indulged in their amazing bites, head across the street to Jimmy’s for one of their famous slushees. It’s the perfect duo for a laid-back night near the coast!

Drinks:

• Barbary Coast: If you love a no-frills, grungy dive bar, Barbary Coast is the spot. This is my second-favorite dive bar in the country (first place goes to The Dive Bar in Key West). It’s dark, a little rough around the edges and absolutely perfect. They’ve got pool, shuffleboard and just the right amount of chaos. If Nick or Ryan is behind the bar, let them know Mandy sent you — they’ll take good care of you.

• The Ivy: Right down the street from Barbary, The Ivy is a great next stop for a laid-back drink. It’s small, cozy and effortlessly cool. If Bob is working, let him know Mandy sent you!

• Blue Post Billiards: Tucked away across the alley from The Ivy, Blue Post Billiards has an awesome atmosphere with darts, pool, arcade games and a charming patio that used to be an alleyway. The only caveat? The bartenders are either incredibly nice or impressively rude — there is no in-between. But hey, that’s part of the fun.

• Lulas- A hidden underground gem just a few blocks from Barbary. It can get crowded on weekends, but if you’re up for a lively scene, it’s worth it. They have foosball, Pac-Man and a cool, speakeasy-style vibe. Fun fact: Bob (now at The Ivy) used to work here, which is how we got to know him — we liked him so much, we followed him over! I don’t know any of the current bartenders, but Lulas is still a fun spot to experience.

• WTF (Whiskey Tango Foxtrot) [Honorable Mention]: A bit of a walk from the other bars, but trust me — it’s worth it. WTF serves the best cocktails I’ve ever had. If you’re an Old-Fashioned lover, this is your heaven. Not into strong alcohol flavors? No worries. Their mixologists are pros at crafting delicious, balanced drinks. Just be warned: after 8 pm on weekends, this place packs out.