Just Beyond Wilmington Is North Carolina's Bayside Suburb And Gateway To Outdoor Adventure

From the sweeping Blue Ridge Mountains to the breezy Outer Banks beaches, North Carolina is a hotspot for unforgettable adventures. Charming mountain towns and coastal communities also add excitement to the Tar Heel State. Head to Black Mountain to experience one of America's prettiest small towns with walkable charm and waterfalls. Meanwhile, fans of swoon-worthy teen romcoms can embark on a tour of the charming, beachy North Carolina towns where "The Summer I Turned Pretty" was filmed. And if you're looking for a quiet slice of paradise where both breathtaking landscapes and small-town delights await, make your way to Bayshore. This laid-back oceanfront suburb, just 20 minutes by car northeast of Wilmington, is guaranteed to be a serene getaway.

Anyone looking to relocate from a busy urban setting might even consider Bayshore as an ideal hamlet to settle down. This tranquil community offers a family-friendly atmosphere just steps away from the Atlantic seafront, not to mention easy access to nearby cities. Surrounded by sweeping coastal landscapes fringed with woodlands, combined with tranquil parks and a quaint dining scene in the area, Bayshore is an excellent spot to base yourself for thrilling outdoor exploration with a side of relaxed charm.

Waterways meandering to the coast are a haven for kayakers to paddle through, while picturesque marshlands are a great spot to whip out the binoculars for birdwatching. For seaside strolls and refreshing swims, only about a 15-minute drive away is Wrightsville Beach, and not much farther is Shell Island, where sea oats, solitude, and surf await. After a day out in the sun or paddling the swamps, find a local eatery for a bite of seafood or scrumptious Southern cooking.

Start off your outdoor adventures with a visit to Pages Creek Park Preserve, where the grassy marshes of Pages Creek are enveloped by thick woodlands. A loop trail leads to the water's edge, where a ramp lets you launch kayaks to explore the winding inlets. Paddle southwards until you reach the maze of barrier islands sheltering Bayshore from the Atlantic Ocean. Meanwhile, hikers can stay on the trail to explore the thickly wooded landscape, looking out for mushrooms and brightly colored flowers in the undergrowth while admiring the swampy view through the trees. Dog walkers can also bring their furry friends for a day out, though kept securely leashed.

Sink your toes into soft, powdery sand over at Shell Island, a stretch of picturesque shoreline along a narrow barrier island just 20 minutes by car from Bayshore. Sea oats sway along the dunes of this blissfully undeveloped beachfront, offering ample space to lay down a towel for sunbathing. Meanwhile, paddlers can launch kayaks or canoes into the tide marshes fringing the island's western edge. Anglers can try to reel in some fresh catch, and true to the island's name, families with children can scour the sand for shells.

For more waterfront fun on the inland side, head to Smith Creek Park, just 10 minutes by car west of Bayshore. Picturesque woodlands envelop a pristine freshwater lake, where a floating dock allows non-motorized boat and kayak access, plus catch-and-release fishing. A paved trail around the lake is perfect for leisurely strolls with tranquil views of the surrounding landscape, while a picnic area offers a scenic spot to rest. Whether you're looking for a relaxed day out or thrilling outdoor adventures, Bayshore is a fantastic retreat.

If you're visiting from out of town, Wilmington International Airport will be the closest major hub, serving airlines like JetBlue and Delta, and just 20 minutes by car from Bayshore. And after spending the day exploring the surrounding coastal waterways and sandy beaches, you will no doubt need a cozy place to sleep.

For a camping vibe with a touch of luxury, book a cabin or campsite with Wilmington KOA Holiday just west of Bayshore. Pull your camper van into the campgrounds to enjoy hot showers and fire pits or choose the deluxe cabins which feature a full bath, partial kitchen, and a deck for relaxing. Previous campers have been pleased with the offerings and vowed to stay again. If camping isn't your bag, book a room at the Holiday Inn Express a little further along the road. Elegant suites and a hotel pool offer relaxation after the day's escapades.

Getting hungry? Bayshore has delicious eateries galore. Don't miss the mouthwatering shrimp and grits at the Cape Fear Seafood Company just down the road from the Holiday Inn Express. Popular with locals, Cape Fear offers ocean eats ranging from comfort favorites like hush puppies to a fancy filet mignon. For a spot of brunch, head to the Cast Iron Kitchen, where chicken with pancakes, meatloaf, and biscuits drizzled in gravy are served with a side of Southern hospitality. If you're staying at the KOA Holiday, grab breakfast at Casa Blanca Coffee Roasters nearby, another favorite with locals for the ambience and outdoor seating, while the Ogden Tap Room is a great watering hole for beers on tap and tasty pub grub.