ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: The Blockade Runner Beach Resort is easy to spot because of its size. From the sound side the building isn’t particularly striking, but the resort’s best views and atmosphere are on the ocean side. Its height provides sweeping views of both the ocean and the sound, depending on which side your room faces. I was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by a doorman — a rare touch at East Coast beach hotels — and the resort also offered free valet service when the parking lot reached capacity.
Inside, the lobby felt more like a Caribbean retreat than a North Carolina beach hotel. Light-blue fabric waves draped the ceiling and the deep-blue flooring echoed the ocean. As we moved toward the ocean side, the property opened into a tropical, well-maintained landscape. Pathways to the pool and beach are lush and green, and the resort features cozy rattan hanging “snuggle pods” that add a playful, relaxing touch.
PHOTO: © BLOCKADE RUNNER BEACH RESORT
GUEST QUARTERS: Our Club Level room provided expansive views of the beach and resort grounds through oversized sliding glass windows. The room was roomy, with two queen beds and a small seating area positioned to take advantage of the scenery. While the room lacked a private balcony, the resort’s plentiful outdoor seating areas more than compensated.
The décor favored muted blues and grays for a subtle coastal vibe. Industrial-style bedside lamps and a shared nightstand sat between the beds. We did encounter one issue: a platform bed’s headboard was separating from its base, making the bed unstable. A quick call to the front desk resulted in a maintenance visit within five minutes and an immediate repair — a welcome, prompt response.
The bathroom used a barn-door style sliding door, which is a smart space-saving feature but did not fully close, so privacy was limited.
SERVICES/AMENITIES: On Saturday we took a Carolina Runner boat tour that departs on the sound side, just across the street. The guide led us to Money Island, known for its large sand dune — perfect for sliding — then to Masonboro Island, one of the region’s longest undisturbed barrier-island ecosystems, ideal for beachcombing and sunbathing.
After the tour we dined at the hotel’s East Oceanfront Dining. Seafood across the menu was fresh and well-prepared: the crab cake, local fish and scallops stood out. I ordered a hibiscus cocktail, made with hibiscus grown on the property, which added a refreshing, local touch.
For travelers seeking a tropical feel without traveling far, Blockade Runner Beach Resort delivers a relaxed beach escape close to home.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- There are many on-site activities, including yoga, surf lessons and in-room massages.
- Weekly and special events include Friday lobster nights and a Sunday jazz brunch featuring local musicians.
- A monthly Full Moon Harbor Cruise offers exceptional moonlit views over the water.
BLOCKADE RUNNER BEACH RESORT
275 Waynick Blvd., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
tel 877-684-8009
blockade-runner.com