If you want a coastal trip that combines relaxing on the beach with plenty of activities, consider New Hanover County. Located in southeastern North Carolina, where the Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic, it offers three beach towns, a historic port city, and Southern charm—all within an hour’s drive.
The county was founded in 1729 and named after the German royal family that ruled Great Britain at the time. Wilmington’s busy port helped the area grow and became a key site for blockade running during the Civil War. You can still see traces of this history all around, which makes visiting feel special—more than just a typical beach trip.
Most people stay in Wilmington, where a 1.75-mile Riverwalk runs along the Cape Fear River past shops, restaurants, and the Battleship North Carolina across the water. The downtown historic district is one of the best-preserved in the South, with brick streets, horse-drawn carriages, ghost tours, and seafood spots everywhere.
When it comes to beaches, you have options. Wrightsville Beach is great for surfing and paddleboarding. Carolina Beach offers a classic boardwalk experience. Kure Beach is quieter and features the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the NC Aquarium.
When you’re not at the beach, you can walk through the 67 acres of Airlie Gardens, look for native Venus flytraps at the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, or take a ferry to the charming town of Southport. If you visit in early April, you can also enjoy the North Carolina Azalea Festival.
Whether you’re interested in history, relaxing in a hammock, or trying hush puppies, New Hanover has something for you. The images below are clickable, so you can explore more details about each locality.
