Hotels in Cape Fear

Discover Cape Fear: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Riverfront Adventure

Discover the captivating allure of Cape Fear, North Carolina, where picturesque beaches meet vibrant culture. Stroll along the golden sands of Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach, perfect for family getaways and sun-soaked adventures. Explore the historic charm of downtown Wilmington, where the scenic Cape Fear River flows and attractions like the Battleship North Carolina and Cape Fear Museum await. Whether you're seeking thrilling water sports or serene sunset strolls, Cape Fear offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation and exploration. Embrace this coastal gem where every moment is a new adventure waiting to unfold! For the best hotel rates in Cape Fear, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Cape Fear

Some of the best places to stay in Cape Fear are Downtown Wilmington, Long Beach and Shell Island. Cape Fear, North Carolina, offers a diverse travel experience. Downtown Wilmington is vibrant with shops and restaurants, ideal for first-time visitors. Long Beach boasts beautiful sandy shores perfect for relaxation, while Shell Island offers a more secluded escape with stunning natural beauty. Accommodations range from cozy hotels in Downtown Wilmington to oceanfront inns at Long Beach, and comfortable suites in Shell Island. Each area provides a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences, ensuring a memorable stay. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Cape Fear:

1. Downtown WilmingtonOpens in a new window: Downtown Wilmington is a charming area perfect for romantic getaways, business trips, and family vacations. With attractions like the scenic Riverwalk, the historic Battleship North Carolina, and the Wilmington Convention Center, visitors can enjoy a mix of culture and outdoor experiences. For accommodations, consider Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel ideal for adventure seekers and business travelers alike, offering various recreational activities and business amenities. ARRIVE WilmingtonOpens in a new window is another great option for pet lovers, allowing pets with special amenities provided. Lastly, Graystone InnOpens in a new window caters to business travelers with essential facilities and a convenient location.
2. Long BeachOpens in a new window: Long Beach is a beach lover's paradise, featuring beautiful shores like Caswell Beach and Holden Beach, alongside the Ocean Crest Pier for scenic views. The area is laid-back yet vibrant, perfect for families and pet owners. For affordable stays, Captain's Cove MotelOpens in a new window is a cozy 2.5-star motel that welcomes pets, making it a good choice for travelers with furry friends. Another option is Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport - Oak Island Area, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, which offers business amenities and pet-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay for various needs.
3. Shell IslandOpens in a new window: Shell Island offers a serene beach experience with direct access to Wrightsville Beach and nearby attractions like Mayfaire Town Center. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts and families, the area boasts a variety of recreational activities. Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront SuitesOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star resort, provides a perfect blend of beach fun and business amenities for those looking to mix work and leisure. Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, also featuring direct beach access and a range of adventure sports for guests to enjoy, making it perfect for a memorable getaway.

What to do in Cape Fear

Three days in Cape Fear offers a delightful mix of sandy beaches, scenic waterways, and vibrant neighborhoods. Enjoy outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and water sports, or unwind with live music and fairground shows. This coastal paradise is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, making it a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cape Fear:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the historic Battleship North Carolina, where you can immerse yourself in naval history and tour the impressive battleship. Afterward, head over to the Brooklyn Arts Center at St. Andrews, a vibrant venue that hosts local art exhibits and performances, making it a perfect spot to appreciate the cultural scene. Conclude your day at the Burgwin-Wright House, a beautifully preserved colonial home that offers a glimpse into the area's rich history through guided tours showcasing its architecture and artifacts.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Wrightsville Beach, a stunning shoreline known for its soft sands and water activities. Enjoy some time soaking up the sun or trying out water sports. Next, take a leisurely stroll through the New Hanover County Arboretum, where you can admire diverse gardens and learn about plant species native to the region. Finish your day at the picturesque Airlie Gardens, where you can wander through lush landscapes adorned with beautiful flowers and enjoy serene views by the water.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the Bellamy Mansion Museum, where you can explore its beautiful architecture and learn about the region's history. Next, head to Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens for a relaxing walk along the trails, and enjoy the scenic views and wildlife. Wrap up your day at Johnnie Mercer's Pier, where you can take in the stunning ocean views and perhaps even catch a sunset, making it the perfect end to your Cape Fear adventure.

5 tips to find a great Cape Fear hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Cape Fear is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. To make the most of your trip and explore the key attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. Cape Fear offers great value for money with its beautiful beaches, scenic rivers, and charming town neighborhoods, making it an ideal destination for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Cape Fear, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, increasing your chances of snagging a great deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the season. So, if you can be flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Cape Fear.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, balancing cost with the accessibility of the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Cape Fear and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Cape Fear

Cape Fear experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 47.5°F (8.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.6°F (27.0°C). August tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Cape Fear are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.