You may have heard some people say it: ÒWilmington: our life is your vacation!Ó Our abundance of outdoor life will attest to that claim. Whether you enjoy thrilling water sports or a quiet picnic in the park, our town is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. We skipped the obvious Ògo to the beachÓ and added in a few activities you might not have tried yet. Here are a few amazing outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC.

PaddleboardingTop Outdoor Activities in Wilmington, NC

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest-growing sports here on the east coast. Explore WilmingtonÕs waterways at your leisure or get competitive and join a local race! There are plenty of local paddleboard shops that offer lessons and equipment for people of all skill levels.

Picnicking

Our summers can be hot, but breezes from the ocean and the Cape Fear River make for pleasant weather perfect for cookouts and picnics. Grab lunch or a fresh smoothie at Tidal CreekÕs Co-op Cafe and then take the short drive to Hugh Macrae Park, where youÕll find covered picnic tables or grassy spots by the pond.

Running the Loop

The John Nesbitt Loop (referred to as just Òthe loopÓ by locals) is a 2.45 mile running trail located in Wrightsville Beach, NC. The Loop begins at Causeway Drive, crosses over Banks Channel, and wraps around until youÕre back at Causeway again. The Loop is popular for joggers and bikers, and is a great place to get exercise for yourself and your dogs.

Camping on the Beach

Day trips to the beach are a favorite pastime of Wilmington, but who says the fun has to end when the sun goes down? Pull out your camping gear and set up at a campground such as Carolina Beach State Park, or take a quick boat trip to Masonboro Island for a great camping experience. Don’t forget to try some beach yoga while you’re there!

Top Outdoor Activities in Wilmington, NCStrolling the River Walk

This riverside boardwalk is being extended! Experience the friendly and easy-going atmosphere of downtown Wilmington while you walk along the Cape Fear River. Watch the boats on the water and enjoy the view of the Battleship. There are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way to keep you occupied and turn the walk into an afternoon event.

Shopping the Wilmington FarmersÕ Market

Summers provide the perfect opportunity to stock up on fresh local produce, meats, homemade baked goods, and handcrafted items at one of several farmersÕ markets that take place in the area. The Riverfront FarmersÕ Market is open almost every Saturday morning between April and November.

These are just a few of our favorite outdoor activities that you can do in Wilmington, NC. For more local activities and happenings, check out the events at your local Co-op on the Tidal Creek events calendar ! What are your favorite things to do in Wilmington? Let us know if the Facebook comments below!

Click Here to See Events Calendar


Photo Credits:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/taylar/4986951837
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