Flanked by the beautiful Cape Fear River to the west and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean to the east, there’s a lot to love about Wilmington, North Carolina. Throw the Southern charm and the centuries-old buildings of the city’s Historic Downtown into the mix, and you’ll quickly understand why more and more visitors are flocking to Wilmington every year.

In the summer months, Wilmington is a popular destination for beach-goers looking to have fun in the sun at nearby Wrightsville, Carolina, and Kure beaches, which are all less than 30 minutes from Wilmington proper. But trust us – there’s so much more to do in Wilmington than just lounging on the beach (though we won’t judge you if that’s all you do!).

Start by exploring the beautiful 19th- and 20th-century architectural styles in the Downtown Historic District before making your way to the bustling Riverwalk, which extends along the Cape Fear River and offers endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options in the heart of downtown. 

If it’s history you’re after, you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to the USS North Carolina and the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Or, if you prefer to soak up the area’s natural beauty, take a sunset cruise along the river or kayak around the isolated islands in nearby Zeke’s Island Reserve. 

When you’re ready to relax after an action-packed day exploring Wilmington, you can grab drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the river or a buzzing brewery in downtown Wilmington before having dinner at one of the city’s many excellent farm-to-table restaurants or seafood-centric eateries. 

From “local fare with Latin flair” at Savorez to Cajun-crusted North Carolina oysters at Catch and Panamanian cuisine at Ceviche’s, you’ll love eating your way through Wilmington’s best restaurants.

With so much to see, do, and eat, you’ll want a nice hotel room to come back to at the end of a long day. Luckily, you’ll find all sorts of riverside retreats, trendy boutique hotels, and historic inns scattered around Wilmington and its surrounding areas. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect place. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Wilmington, NC, to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Where to Stay in Wilmington, NC

Chances are you’re visiting Wilmington to either explore the Historic District or have an epic beach vacation at one of the nearby beaches. 

If it’s the Historic District you’re after, you’ll be happy to know that there are quite a few incredible boutique hotels, resorts, and inns lining the streets of downtown Wilmington – some are even perched right on the banks of Cape Fear River, offering panoramic views right from your room! 

One of the best reasons to set up shop in this part of town is that you’ll be steps from the Wilmington Riverwalk and all of downtown’s bustling bars, shops, breweries, and restaurants. If this is your first time in Wilmington, you really can’t go wrong with a hotel in this part of town.

Located 20 minutes east of downtown, Wrightsville Beach is another one of the most popular places to stay in Wilmington, NC. Accommodation options here are mainly family-friendly oceanfront resorts, which are wonderful options if you’re in town for a beach holiday with family and friends.

For something a bit more budget-friendly, you’ll find plenty of chain hotels tucked away in between the Historic District and the beaches to the east. These are great choices if you plan on doing a little bit of everything during your trip but don’t want to break the bank!

The 12 Best Hotels in Wilmington, North Carolina

1. The Hive Wilmington

When it comes to cool boutique hotels in Wilmington, NC, it’s tough to beat The Hive Wilmington. From its amenity-packed boutique rooms to its location near the Riverwalk, there’s a reason guests rave about The Hive.

Unlike traditional hotels, you won’t find any staff welcoming you to The Hive Wilmington. Instead, you can check in and check out anytime with the keyless entry. And with thoughtful touches like mints on the bedside table and lots of Keurig coffee pods, you’ll find that every detail has been planned out.

You can choose from 14 apartment-style guest rooms, all individually designed to “tell a story” by local designer Robin Hertzog. With the original art and ultra-stylish furnishings, you’ll never want to leave! 

Plus, you’ll love the fully stocked kitchens with reverse osmosis water taps, the deluxe bathrooms with rainfall showers, and the laptop-friendly workstations with high-speed internet. This hotel is very pet-friendly, too, in case you’d like to bring your furry friend along. Don’t be surprised if they’re greeted with a gift!

2. DREAMERS by DW

Located smack in the middle of the Historic District, DREAMERS by DW is one of the best hotels in Wilmington, NC, if you’re looking for a boutique retreat. This beautiful Victorian home has been impeccably renovated, decorated, and designed to be a rejuvenating and relaxing inn-style place to stay. 

There are only three rooms and two suites to choose from, all boasting a chic yet minimalist design and every amenity you could possibly need. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, the “Romantic” suite features an original hand-carved fireplace and a glass bar cart next to the clawfoot tub.

Or, for something totally unique, the treehouse-like “Stargazer” room is perched on the third floor and boasts a platform-style bed overlooking a peaceful garden and the neighborhood’s Victorian rooftops. Plus, you’re sure to love the soaking tub and the rain shower in the en suite.

In the mornings, you can enjoy a complimentary gourmet vegan breakfast before packing up the loaner beach gear and heading to Wrightsville Beach. Or, if you prefer to hang out at the hotel, you can join in on one of the yoga classes held on the porch or pamper yourself with an in-room massage!

3. Hotel Ballast Wilmington

Nestled right on the banks of the Cape Fear River, Hotel Ballast Wilmington is the perfect pick if you want to be right in the heart of the action while not skimping on amenities. 

The complimentary airport shuttle makes it easy to get to and from the airport, and you’ll love the soothing color palettes and comfy Simmons Beautyrest beds in the rooms and suites. But with all of the on-site amenities, you won’t want to spend all of your time in your room!

One of the standout features of Hotel Ballast is the outdoor pool and fire pit on the patio, which offers beautiful views of the river and Battleship North Carolina. There’s also a 24/7 gym if you want to keep up with your routine during your stay.

While you’ll be within walking distance of some of the best restaurants in town, you should definitely enjoy at least one meal on the patio of Board & Barrel, where you can dine on Southern fare while watching the sun sink into the river. You’ll also find the Buffalo Bayou cafe in the lobby, as well as a Ruth’s Chris Steak House next door.

4. ARRIVE Wilmington

Take one look at ARRIVE Wilmington, and you’ll see why guests rave about this place as being one of the most unique hotels in Wilmington, NC. Located in Wilmington’s Historic District, this property was once the site of a convent, and it’s now been given a new lease on life as an adorable boutique hotel. Fun fact: There is a hidden confessional at the hotel!

You’ll absolutely love the property’s 34 stylish guest rooms, which are all outfitted with beds draped in Bellino Fine Linens, marble bathrooms with Grown Alchemist bath amenities, large flat-screens with Apple TV, and a curated local field guide. Plus, the magazine-worthy decor is made even cooler with the Victrola Bluetooth speaker and the vintage-style mini-fridge found in each room.

When you’re not lounging around your room, you can mix and mingle over handcrafted cocktails at the Gazebo Bar, play lawn games in the courtyard, and warm up on chilly evenings in front of the fire pit. 

If you want to dine at the hotel, you’ll love the globally-inspired Southern coastal dishes being served up at the quaint Dram Yard restaurant. Be sure to also keep an eye out for the “Weekly Happenings,” like Mini Martini Monday and Wine Social Hour Friday!

5. Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center

If you’re looking for cool boutique hotels in Wilmington, Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center might be just what you’re looking for. Like all Aloft hotels, this place oozes a youthful energy. Plus, it’s located in a beautiful red-brick building right on the Riverwalk, so the location can’t be beat!

The colorful, eye-catching rooms are outfitted with everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. You can get some work done with the free Wi-Fi in the cozy sitting area, get refreshed with the rainfall shower and Dry Bar toiletries in the en suite, and have movie nights with the 55-inch flat-screen TV. Rooms here are also pet-friendly if you plan on traveling with your pup.

In the mornings, grab coffee and pastries at the Aloft Coffee Bar, and in the evenings, socialize with fellow guests at the trendy WXYZ bar. If you’re feeling peckish, head over to the hotel’s The Atlantic Restaurant & Wine Loft for fine dining. Better yet, go up to the rooftop bistro aView for cocktails and tapas with a view!

6. Front Street Inn

When it comes to unique boutique hotels in Wilmington, NC, Front Street Inn has a lot to love. You’ll find this gem of a hotel in a Federal-style building set just one block from the Cape Fear River, meaning all of downtown’s main attractions and restaurants are just steps away.

You can choose from 13 individually styled rooms, ranging from the Dutch Golden Age-inspired “The Amsterdam” room to the artsy “Soho, London Room.” No matter which guest room you choose, you’ll love the stylish decor and handy mini-fridge, coffeemaker, flat-screen TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi. 

In the mornings, you’ll be treated to a complimentary continental breakfast with items like make-your-own-waffles, quiche, pastries, and bagels. Free coffee and tea are available round-the-clock, and parking is complimentary as well. Oh, and don’t forget to snag one of the freshly baked cookies and muffins that are left in the lobby each afternoon!

7. Blockade Runner Beach Resort

If you’re wondering where to stay in Wilmington for a resort-style getaway, Blockade Runner Beach Resort is a really cool option. You’ll find this boutique resort on the shores of Wrightsville Beach, just 10 miles from downtown Wilmington. This is a great option if you’re planning a fun-filled beach vacation with family and friends.

Accommodation options offer views of the ocean, harbor, or garden and are all individually decorated – no two rooms are alike! No matter which room you get, you’ll love relaxing in your Boca Terry robe, brewing your morning coffee with the Keurig coffee maker, and enjoying the view from your private balcony.

Explore the grounds, and you’ll find an oceanfront pool surrounded by loungers and cabanas, family-friendly lawn games, and a pool bar serving drinks and “beach bites.” For sit-down meals, the resort offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner at East Oceanfront. 

This is also the spot for Sunday brunch. Or, if you’re feeling lazy after a sun-soaked day, you can always throw on your Boca Terry robe and have dishes from East Oceanfront delivered directly to your room!

8. Graystone

Housed in a grandiose, turn-of-the-century building, the philosophy behind Graystone is to “deliver tailored service, stylish scenes, and sensual spaces at every turn.” Step inside this newly-revamped building, and you’ll quickly see why this place is gaining the reputation as one of the top boutique hotels in Wilmington, NC. 

Each guest room is individually decorated and designed to offer a luxurious stay. Opt for “The Crow” room, and you’ll swoon for the elegant four-poster bed, 18-foot ceilings, and Victorian clawfoot soaking tub in the bathroom.

And then there’s “The Monarch,” which boasts a sitting area complete with the original built-in window seats and a romantic fireplace, or the spectacular “Cypress,” which was Elizabeth Bridgers’ room when she first built the mansion in 1906.  

No matter where you end up staying, you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast each morning. The mansion also features a library with a fireplace, a lounge with a piano, a beautiful veranda, and a guests-only restaurant.

9. Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Lumina is another excellent option if you prefer to be based on Wrightsville Beach. Plus, there’s a complimentary area shuttle, which means you won’t have to worry about renting a car during your beach vacation. Although, with so many fun amenities, you don’t actually have to leave the resort if you don’t want to!

You can spend your days splashing around in one of the three pools, sleeping under the sun in the hammock garden, or working out with an ocean view in the beachfront fitness center. Plus, the staff are always organizing entertainment and activities for guests.

When hunger strikes, you can head over to one of the resort’s three dining establishments: Solstice Oceanfront Kitchen + Cocktails, Surfside Beach Bar & Grille, or Longboard Coffee + Market. 

And once you’re ready to relax, you’ll love hanging out in your retro-chic room, which features a balcony with an ocean view, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, a microwave, and a mini-fridge. Plus, the blackout blinds and pillow menu ensure a restful night’s sleep.

10. Embassy Suites By Hilton Wilmington Riverfront

Whether you’re in town for work or play, Embassy Suites By Hilton Wilmington Riverfront has everything you need for a comfortable and productive stay. This place gives you direct access to the Wilmington Convention Center and the Riverwalk. Plus, the Historic District is just a half mile away.

Freebies include daily made-to-order breakfasts, evening wine and beer socials with light snacks, and high-speed Wi-Fi. You’ll also have use of the indoor pool, fitness center, and business center. 

One of the best features of this hotel is the (seasonal) Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar. Located on the ninth floor, this is the perfect spot to socialize over sunset drinks and handcrafted pizzas. The hotel is also home to Steam Restaurant. Found on the second floor, this eatery serves up regional and seafood fare on the open-air terrace.

If that’s not enough, you’ll love the suite-style rooms, which are all outfitted with living rooms with sofas, 49-inch HDTVs, and wet bars with coffee makers, mini-fridges, and microwaves.

11. Shell Island Resort 

Yet another resort-style stay on Wrightsville Beach, Shell Island Resort stands proud as one of the most unique hotels in Wilmington, offering suite-style accommodation right on the sand.

You’ll have everything you need to feel right at home, so much so that you won’t have to step foot outside the resort during your trip! You can simply spend your days working on your tan by one of the pools, surfing in the ocean, sipping tropical drinks by the poolside tiki bar, or playing a friendly game at the sand volleyball court. 

Once you work up an appetite, you can enjoy breakfast and lunch right on the beach at Shell Island Restaurant and Oceanfront Lounge. And if you’re wondering where to eat dinner, the staff are happy to give you recommendations.

One of the coolest things about staying at Shell Island Resort is that all 169 suites offer a balcony overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The suites are also outfitted with a large living room with a sleeper sofa, two flat-screen TVs, and a kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and coffee maker.

12. SpringHill Suites By Marriott Wilmington Mayfaire

Tucked away in Mayfaire, SpringHill Suites Wilmington Mayfaire is a great option if you’re looking for a contemporary yet budget-friendly place to stay in Wilmington. 

One of the standout features of this hotel is that all guest rooms are spacious suites, so you’ll have everything you need during your stay. Bedrooms and living areas are partially separated by a designated ergonomic workstation, and all suites are also outfitted with a sofa bed, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, microwave, and high-speed Wi-Fi. If you’d like even more space, the 1-bedroom suites offer separate bedrooms and living rooms. 

You can work out in the morning in the 24/7 fitness center or the outdoor pool before fueling up for the day with the complimentary buffet breakfast. While the hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, all of the restaurants in Mayfaire Town Center are just across the way, and Wrightsville Beach is an easy 10-minute drive away.

That completes our list of the 12 best Wilmington hotels! Did we miss any cool hotels in Wilmington, NC? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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