An aerial view of a coastal town with a long beachfront, clear blue waters, and a marina.

Hotels in Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach

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Our top choices for Shell Island hotels

1. Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites

Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites
3.5 star property
Shell Island
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,730 reviews)
"Great place"
United States
Carmen
The price is CA $203
CA $266 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites

2. Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG
3.0 star property
0.4 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Great place"
United States
Ferdinand
The price is CA $258
CA $339 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

3. Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach
2.5 star property
3.3 km from Shell Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"Perfect stay"
United States
Carlos
The price is CA $166
CA $188 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

4. Silver Gull Motel

Silver Gull Motel
2.0 star property
1.2 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Clean room, parking great, beach view and staff friendly and helpful"
United States
Jill
The price is CA $235
CA $265 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Silver Gull Motel

5. Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach
2.5 star property
4.3 km from Shell Island
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (727 reviews)
"Great Stay"
United States
James
The price is CA $138
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

6. SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach
3.0 star property
4.3 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Jami
The price is CA $175
CA $198 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

7. Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire
3.0 star property
4.7 km from Shell Island
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Nice breakfast and rooms comfortables."
United States
Diego
The price is CA $169
CA $191 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

8. StudioRes by Marriott Wilmington

StudioRes by Marriott Wilmington
3.0 star property
6.4 km from Shell Island
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Great place enjoyed my stay"
United States
William
The price is CA $130
CA $147 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 6 - Sep 7
StudioRes by Marriott Wilmington

9. Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy
4.0 star property
2.6 km from Shell Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (361 reviews)
"Great vacation! The hotel was comfortable and the staff was accommodating. Beach access was perfect! I plan on returning!!"
United States
Kim
The price is CA $353
CA $459 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

10. Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center
3.0 star property
4.7 km from Shell Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Great hotel! Clean and right in the heart of everything! And the staff is wonderful! We always stay here when in Wilmington and will continue."
United States
Steven
The price is CA $169
CA $191 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

11. Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall

Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall
3.0 star property
4.3 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (390 reviews)
"It was very clean, staff were very polite. Breakfast was good and the hotel is in great location with a lot store and restaurant near by. Close to the beach easy to get around and to the airport."
United States
Maria
The price is CA $175
CA $198 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall

12. Holiday Inn Express Wilmington Porters Neck by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Wilmington Porters Neck by IHG
2.5 star property
8.5 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (561 reviews)
"Great hotel and staff"
United States
Elizabeth
The price is CA $164
CA $185 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Holiday Inn Express Wilmington Porters Neck by IHG

13. Hampton Inn Wilmington - University Area/Smith Creek Station

Hampton Inn Wilmington - University Area/Smith Creek Station
2.5 star property
7.9 km from Shell Island
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Great place"
United States
Lia Kristina
The price is CA $131
CA $148 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Hampton Inn Wilmington - University Area/Smith Creek Station

14. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach
3.0 star property
7.4 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"The stay was wonderful! I traveled with my mother and 2 children, room was very clean and the front desk lady I forgot her name but she works at night she was so welcoming and helpful so big shoutout to her!!!"
United States
Deidra
The price is CA $137
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

15. Element by Marriott Wilmington

Element by Marriott Wilmington
3.0 star property
4.5 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (122 reviews)
"Great place"
United States
Michael
The price is CA $236
CA $266 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Element by Marriott Wilmington

16. Comfort Inn University

Comfort Inn University
2.5 star property
8.2 km from Shell Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,541 reviews)
"Clean comfortable room, full breakfast."
United States
Russell
The price is CA $123
CA $139 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Comfort Inn University

17. Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington

Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington
3.0 star property
9 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Kathy
The price is CA $141
CA $160 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington

18. Surf Suites

Surf Suites
2.5 star property
South End, 4 km from Shell Island
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (628 reviews)
"Enjoyed our stay."
United States
charles
The price is CA $261
CA $326 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Surf Suites

19. Best Western Plus Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

Best Western Plus Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach
2.5 star property
8.5 km from Shell Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Great, budget friendly, all around hotel"
United States
Michael
The price is CA $128
CA $145 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
Best Western Plus Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

20. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach
3.0 star property
7.6 km from Shell Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (956 reviews)
"Great location and very clean"
United States
Arya
The price is CA $136
CA $154 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 20 - Sep 21
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Shell Island

Find the best Shell Island areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

South End

While visiting South End, you might make a stop by sights like Wrightsville Beach and South End Surf Shop.

South Harbor Island

While South Harbor Island isn't home to many top sights, Wrightsville Beach and Wrightsville SUP are some notable places to visit nearby.

Parmele Isle

When in Parmele Isle, you can plan a visit to Wrightsville Beach and Wrightsville SUP, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Top Shell Island Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Shell Island

Top reasons to visit Shell Island

  • Stunning Beaches: Shell Island boasts pristine sandy beaches and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a variety of activities such as jet skiing, surfing, and exploring scenic bike paths for adventure seekers.
  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Discover urban parks and engaging activities suitable for all ages, making it an ideal spot for families.
  • Vibrant Culinary Scene: Savor delicious dishes from local eateries, showcasing the area's fresh seafood and regional flavours.
  • Charming Community: Experience the friendly atmosphere and laid-back coastal lifestyle that makes Shell Island a memorable destination.

Find great hotels near Shell Island

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations on Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach, ranging from budget-friendly to comfortable stays with 2 to 4 stars. Whether you're seeking a cozy motel or a resort experience, Shell Island has options to suit every traveller. Enjoy amenities tailored for business, adventure, or pet-friendly vacations while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the beach. Find your ideal beach hotel and create lasting memories during your visit to this picturesque destination.

  • Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites: This 3.5-star resort embodies the essence of a beach getaway, perfectly situated directly on the pristine shores of Shell Island. Ideal for families and adventurous travellers alike, the resort offers spacious oceanfront suites that provide stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. Guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports right at their doorstep, including windsurfing, motorboating, and surfing, making it a haven for thrill-seekers. Families will appreciate the amenities for children, such as a pool gate and highchairs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for young ones. Whether you're looking to unwind on the beach or engage in exciting activities, this resort has it all.
  • Trailborn Surf & Sound: Located 3.2km from Shell Island, this 3-star resort is perfect for those who crave an adventurous beach vacation. With direct access to the beach, guests can dive into a range of water sports including kayaking, sailing, and surfing lessons offered onsite. The vibrant atmosphere of Trailborn Surf & Sound caters to both seasoned adventurers and those looking to learn something new. Enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe as you relax in comfortable accommodations that reflect the spirit of the ocean. It's an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement during their stay.
  • Comfort Inn University: Situated 8.0km from Shell Island, Comfort Inn University provides a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for those travelling with children. This hotel offers essential amenities, including complimentary cribs and a first aid kit, ensuring a worry-free stay for parents. While it may not be directly on the beach, the hotel provides easy access to various local attractions and is a convenient base for exploring the area. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations and a welcoming environment that prioritizes family comfort and safety, making it a great choice for a home-away-from-home experience.

Where to stay near Shell Island

Shell Island, a charming neighborhood near Wrightsville Beach, offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy stunning ocean views and pristine sandy beaches while indulging in mouthwatering culinary delights from local eateries. Whether you're seeking a beach getaway or an outdoor excursion, the friendly atmosphere and vibrant community make for an unforgettable experience. Explore nearby attractions and immerse yourself in the laid-back coastal lifestyle that Shell Island has to offer.

  • Wrightsville Beach: A vibrant coastal city, Wrightsville Beach is known for its stunning sandy shores and welcoming atmosphere. Located right next to Shell Island, this area experiences seasonal traveler arrivals, with peak visitation in the summer months of June to July and again in September. Visitors flock here for a family-oriented beach experience, enjoying activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the local boardwalk. The recreational areas offer educational opportunities for all ages, ensuring a fulfilling experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The iconic beach and charming town neighbourhood add to the allure of this beautiful destination.
  • Parmele Isle: Just 644m from Shell Island, Parmele Isle is a picturesque neighbourhood that offers a unique blend of beach and romance. This area sees a steady flow of visitors, peaking during the warmer months from June to August, while the winter months see a slight decline. Popular for outdoor activities and water sports, Parmele Isle is perfect for adventure seekers and couples looking for a romantic getaway. With easy access to the boardwalk and nearby beaches, you can soak up the sun while enjoying the friendly local atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
  • South Harbor Island: A charming neighbourhood located 1.6km from Shell Island, South Harbor Island is a hidden gem for those seeking a tranquil beach experience. Like Parmele Isle, it attracts visitors primarily from June to August, with fewer guests in the colder months. This area is ideal for outdoor lovers and couples, offering a range of activities including golf, education opportunities, and access to scenic boardwalks. With its stunning views and family-friendly beaches, South Harbor Island provides a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure alike.

Things to do near Shell Island

Shell Island, located at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities perfect for vacationers. Visitors can enjoy great surf spots, picnic areas, and water parks, while also indulging in jet skiing and exploring scenic bike paths. With nearby stores and a charming boardwalk, Shell Island presents a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation and adventure alike.

Shopping

In Shell Island, check out Aussie Island Surf Shop, only 1.6km away, for beach gear and souvenirs. South End Surf Shop, 3.2km away, offers surf apparel. If you're up for a drive, visit Mayfaire Town Center, located 4.8km away, featuring a variety of shops and dining options.

Recreation

The Live Oak Bank Pavilion, located 16.1km from Shell Island, offers an energizing atmosphere with live music events. Freeman Park, 11.6kms away, provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wellness activities. For sports enthusiasts, Cape Fear National at Brunswick Forest, 22.5km from Shell Island, features a stunning golf course.

Adventure

At Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk 16.1km from Shell Island, you can enjoy romantic strolls with beautiful beach vibes. For family fun, venture 8.0km to Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, where adventure and entertainment await. For water sports enthusiasts, Wrightsville SUP offers thrilling experiences just 1.3km away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, offering captivating shows just 14.5km away. For family fun, visit the adventure-filled Topsail Skating Rink, 14.8km from Shell Island. Don’t miss the City Stage Theatre for a romantic evening of culture, also 14.5km away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shell Island

When planning your visit to Shell Island, consider travelling during the off-peak season from December to February for lower rates. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are pricier. Enjoy free attractions like Wrightsville Beach and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for flexible bookings and great deals to maximize your budget while enjoying this beautiful area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shell Island are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shell Island is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shell Island is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your Shell Island hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Shell Island

Shell Island, located in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation, outdoor activities, and urban exploration. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly attractions, including urban parks and modern colleges, while soaking in the local culture. Noteworthy spots include Shell Island and Shelter Island, perfect for those seeking waterfront properties and unique experiences. Whether you’re after adventure or tranquility, Shell Island caters to all vacation styles.

  • Wrightsville Beach: Experience the quintessential beach vibes at Wrightsville Beach, located 4.8km from Shell Island. This picturesque stretch of sand offers sun-soaked relaxation, swimming, and a variety of water sports, making it an ideal spot for both families and solo travellers.
  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington: Situated 8.0km away, this modern university boasts vibrant city vibes. Wander through its scenic campus, engage with local culture, and enjoy art exhibits while soaking in the academic atmosphere.
  • Johnnie Mercer's Pier: Just 1.1km from Shell Island, this jetty offers a family-friendly setting perfect for fishing, romantic strolls, or business meetings with stunning ocean views, creating a memorable experience for all.

Best time to go to Shell Island

The best time to visit Shell Island is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June77.9°F (25.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September76.1°F (24.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October67.8°F (19.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shell Island

To reach Shell Island, tourists can fly into Wilmington International Airport (ILM), situated 12.9km away. Notable hotels nearby include the 4-star Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and ARRIVE Wilmington, both just 4.8km from the airport. The Graystone Inn, another 4-star guesthouse, is also conveniently located 4.8km from ILM. Alternatively, Jacksonville Airport (OAJ) is 44.8km away, with options like the 3.5-star Chateau Rouge, 11.3km from OAJ, and affordable motels such as Best Rest Inn and Coastal Motel, located 11 and 16.1km away respectively. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to the airports.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Shell Island that travellers recommend?
For a highly recommended hotel in Shell Island, consider the Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites.

This 3.5-star resort, with an 8.4 rating, offers exclusively oceanfront suites, ensuring beautiful views directly from your accommodation. Guests frequently praise the nice and clean rooms and suites, the friendly and helpful staff, and the beautiful and great location. The resort also features a poolside bar and is conveniently located near Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island.
What are the best family hotels in Shell Island?
For an outstanding family hotel in Shell Island, the Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is an excellent choice.

This 3.5-star hotel, with a very good rating of 8.4, offers spacious all-oceanfront suites, many with lovely ocean views. Families will appreciate amenities such as a pool, the availability of connecting rooms, a highchair, and a sofa bed. Guests consistently praise the nice, clean rooms and suites, the friendly and helpful staff, and the beautiful, great location. The food is also frequently mentioned as great and delicious. It is conveniently located near Wrightsville Beach, just 6.2 km away, and Figure Eight Island, which is 4.9 km away.
Which beach resorts in Shell Island do travellers love?
For a beach resort in Shell Island that travellers love, consider the Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites.

This 3.5-star resort, with a strong rating of 8.4, is highly recommended by guests. It boasts all oceanfront suites, offering wonderful sea views and direct access to the ocean. The resort features both an indoor and outdoor pool, complete with sun loungers, umbrellas, and a poolside bar for ultimate relaxation. Guests consistently praise the nice, clean rooms and suites, as well as the friendly and helpful staff. The location is frequently described as beautiful and great, and the food is often highlighted as delicious. It is also conveniently located just 6.2 km from Wrightsville Beach and 4.9 km from Figure Eight Island.
What are the most romantic hotels in Shell Island for couples?
For a romantic stay in Shell Island, the Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is an excellent choice for couples.

This 3.5-star resort, rated 8.4, is perfectly situated to offer stunning ocean views from all its suites. Guests consistently praise the beautiful location and the nice, clean suites. The resort provides a variety of pool options, including an outdoor pool with sun loungers and umbrellas, and an indoor pool, great for relaxation. With its close proximity to the sea and Figure Eight Island just 4.9 km away, it is ideal for a romantic getaway.
When is the best time to go to Shell Island?
The best time to visit Shell Island for pleasant weather and a full range of activities is from late May to early September.

This period, covering the summer months, offers consistently warm temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius. The ocean is warm enough for swimming, and all the local attractions and amenities are fully operational. It's an ideal time for families looking for a classic beach holiday, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.

For couples seeking a slightly quieter experience with comfortable weather, the shoulder months of May and September are excellent choices. The crowds are typically smaller than in peak summer, but the weather remains warm and pleasant, superb for long walks on the beach or enjoying a sunset cruise.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline – this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right Shell Island hotel for you.
How much is the nightly rate at a Shell Island hotel?
Hotel prices in Shell Island often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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