It is illegal to have alcohol on Wilmington beaches, even though North Carolina's legal drinking age is 21-years-old.
Glass bottles and glass containers are illegal on these Wilmington beaches.
Horses are not allowed on the beaches.
From the first of March until the last day of October, dogs are prohibited within town limits (from April 1 through September 30 at Wrightsville Beach). During other months, dogs must be on a leash. Their owners are responsible for disposing of their dogs' waste from beach areas and for possessing plastic or paper containers at all times for cleaning up after their dog. Officials require proof upon request of such containers.
It is illegal to disturb sea turtles or their nests on the beach. These endangered creatures make the Wilmington area their nesting grounds. Strict adherence to this law helps protect their environment.
Uprooting or cutting sea oats is punishable by fine.
Driving all-terrain vehicles and dune buggies is illegal on Wilmington's beaches. Operating jet skis or any type of personal watercraft is prohibited by law within 1,500 feet of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline.
It is illegal to surf within 500 feet of a pier with the exception of Wrightsville Beach's Crystal Pier, where surfers must stay 100 feet away from the pier.
