When was the last time you put your phone away and simply watched your kids explore?
Not rushed or checking the time, just watching sandy toes race toward the waves, little hands collecting seashells, and hearing those belly laughs that always seem to disappear far too quickly.
Life gets so busy. Between school schedules, work, deployments, visitors in town, and everything else on your calendar, it’s easy to forget that some of the sweetest family memories happen during those simple moments.
If you’re looking for things to do near Wilmington, I hope this blog inspires you to slow down and enjoy this beautiful corner of coastal North Carolina with the people you love most.
Welcome, I’m Emily, the photographer behind Emmy Jo Photography. As a homeschooling mom of five, I know firsthand how fast these years fly by. That’s why I believe in creating opportunities to simply be together. If you’re ready to preserve these moments after your adventure (or even during), I’d love to help you plan a relaxed family beach session. You can always reach out through my contact page to start the conversation.
Why Wilmington Families Need Places to Make Memories Together
One of the best things about living near Wilmington is that there are so many opportunities to spend quality time together without needing an elaborate plan.
Sometimes the best memories come from:
- Packing a picnic.
- Watching dolphins from the shore.
- Hunting for seashells.
- Letting your toddler get completely covered in sand.
- Staying for sunset just because nobody wants to leave.
Those ordinary moments can often become the ones your children remember years from now.
Whether you’ve lived here forever, you’re visiting for a babymoon, or you’re stationed at Camp Lejeune and making the most of your time before your next PCS, finding things to do near Wilmington is really about finding moments you’ll never want to forget.
Looking for the best spot for your next family photo session? I’ve rounded up my favorite family photo locations near Wilmington, from quiet beaches to beautiful coastal backdrops, to help you choose the setting that fits your family best.
The Best Beaches Near Wilmington for Family Adventures and Sunset Views
Whenever someone asks me about my favorite things to do near Wilmington, heading to the beach is always my first answer.
The beaches here are truly beautiful throughout every season, and each one has its own personality.
Some family favorites include:
Wrightsville Beach
Perfect for long walks, watching surfers, and soaking in an incredible sunset.
Topsail Beach
A quieter option that’s wonderful for younger children who just want room to explore.
Surf City
Indulge in some ice cream, walk the pier together, and spend the evening collecting rocks and shells.
Carolina Beach
A fun mix of beach time, restaurants, and the boardwalk when you’re looking to make a full day of it.
As a photographer, these spots are often my most recommended for my maternity and family sessions. There is just something so captivating about golden light reflecting off the water that never gets old.
Family-Friendly Activities Near Wilmington That Kids Will Love
Beach days aren’t the only things to do near Wilmington with kids.
Some of my family’s favorite outings include:
- Discovery Bay, a unique aquarium experience at Independent Mall
- Exploring Airlie Gardens
- Walking the Riverwalk in downtown Wilmington
- Taking the ferry to Southport
- Visiting Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
- Spending an afternoon at Long Leaf Park
One of the best parts about raising kids is watching them find wonder in places we almost walk right past.
They notice tiny crabs, heart-shaped shells, and clouds that look like dinosaurs. Spending time together isn’t really about checking attractions off a list. It’s about seeing the world through their eyes for a little while.
If you’ve ever worried your kids won’t sit still or wondered how to get natural family photos, this one’s for you. Read Capturing Connection: Family Photos That Feel Like Home to see why the most meaningful images happen when your family can simply be together.
Hidden Gems Near Wilmington Worth Exploring with Your Family
Some of my favorite things to do near Wilmington aren’t always the places you’ll find at the top of every travel guide.
I love finding quiet beach accesses where you can watch the sunset without huge crowds.
Kayaking through calm coastal waters can become an unforgettable family adventure for older kids.
Even exploring local farmers markets or grabbing donuts before a morning beach walk can become a tradition your children look forward to every year.
The destination matters, but the people you’re with matter even more, and quality time will almost always outdo large attractions for your kids.
The Most Beautiful Places to Capture Family Memories Along the Coast
After years of photographing families throughout coastal North Carolina, I’ve learned that beautiful scenery is wonderful, but connection is what makes a photograph unforgettable.
My favorite locations are the ones where children have room to run, parents can relax, and everyone forgets there’s even a camera nearby.
That’s why nearly all of my maternity and family sessions take place at the beach.
I don’t pose you, I prompt you.
I want the hugs, the giggles, the sandy feet, and the little moments you didn’t even realize were happening.
If you’re expecting a little one and enjoying a babymoon, this is also the perfect time to consider my Maternity + Newborn Bundle. It allows your story to be told from bump to baby while making the entire experience effortless from beginning to end.
From golden hour to cloudy skies, every type of light tells a different story. Read The Best Time to Take Photographs Outside for Beautiful Photos to discover the best time to schedule your next beach session.
Making the Most of Your Time in Wilmington Before the Next PCS
For my military families, this season can feel especially bittersweet.
You may only have a few years here, or even less.
One day Wilmington is home, and the next, you’re packing boxes again.
That’s exactly why I encourage military families to experience as many things to do near Wilmington as they can while they’re here.
Visit the beaches, find your favorite ice cream shop, and watch the sunset one more time.
Take family photos before life changes again.
Your photographs become part of your family’s story no matter where the military sends you next, because they get to travel with you.
Why the Memories Made Today Matter More Than You Think
As a mom of five, I know how easy it is to believe you’ll always have another weekend.
But the days are slow, and man do those years go fast.
When my own children look back years from now, I want them to remember being held, laughing until their bellies hurt, running barefoot through the sand, and most importantly, feeling completely loved.
That’s why I believe that finding things to do near Wilmington isn’t really about filling your calendar, it’s more so about filling in your family’s story.
When you’re ready to preserve those memories, I’d be honored to help.
Whether you’re a local family, visiting the coast for a babymoon, or making the most of your time here before your next PCS, I’d love to create photographs that let you relive these moments for years to come.
If you’re ready to plan a relaxed beach maternity or family session, or you’re expecting a little one and want to reserve your newborn session in my Hampstead studio, reach out today. I’d love to help you preserve this beautiful season of motherhood because one day, these photos will become some of your family’s most treasured memories.
Let’s stay connected! Follow me on Instagram for recent galleries, behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty of inspiration for your next maternity, newborn, or family session.
