From a local, not a directory
Wilmington Guides
5 real recommendations — spotlights and roundups worth reading, not just listings.
Local SpotlightAugust 24, 2026
Masonboro Water Taxi Is Wilmington's Easiest Way to a Real Deserted Island
Captain James Thornton has run these waters for 27 years — book a ride to Masonboro Island's nine miles of undeveloped beach, no boat of your own required. A great first-weeks-of-the-semester trip for new UNCW students, too.
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Local SpotlightAugust 19, 2026
Cabana Bar & Grill Is Wilmington's New Island Escape on Pavilion Place
Rum punch, homemade Jamaican patties, and mango mahi that's the real deal, plus weekend brunch and live music on weekend nights. This is your sign to go.
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Local SpotlightAugust 12, 2026
Coco Pipa Is the Kind of Place Wilmington Should Be Showing Up For
A $10-and-under açaí bowl and juice spot on Castle Street, doing real good for the neighborhood — this is your sign to go.
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GuideJuly 22, 2026
Two Indoor Wilmington Spots for When the Forecast Doesn't Cooperate
An escape room on Princess Street and a golf-simulator bar at Mayfaire, both fully indoors, both worth the trip even when it isn't raining.
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GuideJuly 15, 2026
Wilmington's Best Sports Bars for Catching the Game
A Market Street pizzeria that's had TVs on every wall since 1997, and an open-air bar yard with a big screen strung up in the lights — two real go-tos for game day.
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