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

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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, (1,806 reviews)
"Beautiful ocean views and access, helpful staff."
United States
Sandra
The price is ₩171,255
₩229,030 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
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 ₩179,221
₩247,524 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG

3. 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, (383 reviews)
"Staff was awesome"
United States
Brian
The price is ₩237,633
₩343,532 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

4. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"Enjoyed our stay"
United States
Pamela
The price is ₩152,980
₩172,866 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 24 - Nov 25
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

5. 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 and right on the beach. Helpful staff."
United States
Martha
The price is ₩186,250
₩210,463 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Silver Gull Motel

6. Surf Suites

Surf Suites
2.5 star property
South End, 4 km from Shell Island
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (689 reviews)
"Great location very clean We have stayed there 4/5 times and always have a great time"
United States
David
The price is ₩171,255
₩223,522 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Surf Suites

7. 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)
"Super clean property, great rooms and way friendly staff, recommended !"
United States
Douglas
The price is ₩143,507
₩162,162 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

8. 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, (784 reviews)
"The property was very nice and the staff was super nice. The hotel is located in a perfect area and close to restaurants and great shopping"
United States
Lisa
The price is ₩126,278
₩142,694 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

9. Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront

Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
3.5 star property
15.6 km from Shell Island
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,133 reviews)
"Loved everything about our stay"
United States
Ashlee
The price is ₩174,700
₩197,410 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront

10. Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
15.4 km from Shell Island
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,729 reviews)
"NIce place, would stay there again for sure."
United States
Lee
The price is ₩157,847
₩178,367 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

11. 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)
"This is a great pet friendly hotel. Very clean and centrally located."
United States
Deborah Caitlin
The price is ₩97,788
₩110,500 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

12. Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington

Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington
3.0 star property
9 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
"Great stay"
United States
Kathy
The price is ₩118,450
₩133,848 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington

13. Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire
3.0 star property
4.7 km from Shell Island
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"great place to stay clean had a kitchen so you could make food if you don't want to go out real fridge dishwasher they even have dishes and pots and pans altogether nice place"
United States
ML
The price is ₩130,750
₩147,748 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

14. Comfort Inn University

Comfort Inn University
2.5 star property
8.2 km from Shell Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,623 reviews)
"Very clean and the staff was great. Great hotel for family"
United States
Craig
The price is ₩111,701
₩126,221 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Comfort Inn University

15. 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)
"Clean rooms...staff very kind....breakfast delicious"
United States
Deborah
The price is ₩119,763
₩135,331 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 27 - Nov 28
Hampton Inn Wilmington - University Area/Smith Creek Station

16. 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, (583 reviews)
"Room was very nice and staff were friendly and helpful."
United States
Stephanie
The price is ₩147,392
₩166,553 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Holiday Inn Express Wilmington Porters Neck by IHG

17. Aloft by Marriott Wilmington at Coastline Center

Aloft by Marriott Wilmington at Coastline Center
3.0 star property
15.5 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (651 reviews)
"Nice, modern hotel in prime location. I liked the layout of the room. I would stay here again."
United States
JEFFREY C.
The price is ₩168,135
₩189,992 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Aloft by Marriott Wilmington at Coastline Center

18. Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District

Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District
3.0 star property
15.2 km from Shell Island
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Decent"
United States
Corey
The price is ₩145,567
₩164,491 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District

19. DoubleTree by Hilton Wilmington, NC

DoubleTree by Hilton Wilmington, NC
3.0 star property
9.2 km from Shell Island
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (607 reviews)
"Perfect stay"
United States
nicholas
The price is ₩134,283
₩151,739 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
DoubleTree by Hilton Wilmington, NC

20. Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall

Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall
3.0 star property
4.3 km from Shell Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (403 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 ₩168,135
₩189,992 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Residence Inn by Marriott Wilmington Landfall
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.

Compare popular hotels in Shell Island

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet friendly
WiFi included
A hotel room with a large balcony, two armchairs, a small table, and a lamp.
Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites
3.5 star property
8.2
Very good
1,806 reviews
View
A spacious living room with a large window overlooking the sea, a balcony, and several pieces of furniture including sofas and a coffee table.
Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG
3.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,000 reviews
View
A balcony with a view of a beach and pier.
Silver Gull Motel
2.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,000 reviews
View
A balcony with a table and two chairs, overlooking a beach with a path and dunes.
Surf Suites
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
689 reviews
View
A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, and a fireplace.
Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach
2.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View

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: Enjoy the soft sands and gentle waves at Shell Beach, perfect for relaxation and seaside adventures.
  • Outdoor Activities: Participate in surfing lessons, camping, and exploring scenic boardwalks for an active getaway.
  • Cultural Experiences: Discover historic houses and urban parks, offering a blend of local history and culture.
  • Family-Friendly Accommodations: Stay at the Beach Chalet or choose from various pet-friendly hotels and resorts.
  • Charming Neighborhoods: Explore friendly local communities, ensuring a memorable visit to Shell Island.

Find great hotels in and around Shell Island

Discover a variety of accommodation options on Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach, perfect for every traveler. From pet-friendly hotels to welcoming resorts, you’ll find the ideal spot for your vacation. Whether you're seeking holiday rentals or comfortable beds for a restful stay, Shell Island offers a range of facilities designed to cater to business travelers and leisure seekers alike. Enjoy a memorable getaway in this beautiful coastal paradise.

  • Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites: This 3.5-star resort offers a unique beachfront experience with all suites providing stunning ocean views. Guests rate it highly for its adventure-focused amenities, perfect for beach lovers and thrill-seekers. Enjoy direct beach access, an array of water sports options including fishing, surfing, and windsurfing. The resort's spacious accommodations and recreational activities make it an excellent choice for vacationers looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant coastal lifestyle of Shell Island.
  • Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy: A 3-star lodging that embodies a family-friendly adventure spirit, located 3km from Shell Island. With a guest rating of 8.6, this resort is ideal for families seeking fun in the sun. It features direct beach access and offers various activities like onsite fishing, surf lessons, and boat tours. Additionally, the property comes equipped with amenities for children, ensuring a welcoming environment for families looking to create lasting memories together.
  • Comfort Inn University: A budget-friendly option located 8km from Shell Island, this hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 and is well-suited for families. The Comfort Inn University focuses on providing essential amenities and services, including cribs for infants and a first aid kit for peace of mind. While it may not be directly on the beach, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with easy access to the coastal attractions of Wrightsville Beach, making it a practical choice for family vacations.

Where to stay near Shell Island

Shell Island near Wrightsville Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the stunning Shell Beach, where soft sands and gentle waves create an idyllic atmosphere. For family-friendly activities, the Beach Chalet provides comfortable accommodations, while nearby attractions promise exciting excursions. Explore the charming neighborhoods filled with friendly locals, making your visit a memorable experience. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or vibrant outdoor fun, Shell Island has something for everyone.

  • Wrightsville Beach: A vibrant city that is home to Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach is renowned for its stunning coastal beauty and outdoor activities. The beach attracts a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from June to July and September. Travelers flock here for family-friendly experiences, enjoying the boardwalk, recreational areas, and local fairs. With its family beach atmosphere and nearby landmarks, Wrightsville Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for all ages, making it a must-visit destination.
  • Landfall: Located a couple of miles from Shell Island, Landfall is an upscale neighborhood that combines city charm with outdoor leisure. Though moderately seasonal, with peak visitor numbers in April and June to July, Landfall offers a welcoming environment for families seeking shopping and educational experiences. Explore local shopping centers and malls, or take a stroll around the family-friendly neighborhoods. With its easy access to nearby beaches, Landfall is a great spot for those looking to balance urban activities with coastal fun.
  • South End: Just 5km from Shell Island, South End is a picturesque neighborhood that charms visitors year-round. It’s particularly popular from June to August, attracting couples and beach lovers looking for a romantic escape. The area features a lively boardwalk, fairground shows, and ample recreational spaces, perfect for enjoying the sun and surf. With its beautiful family beach and inviting ambiance, South End offers a delightful retreat for those wanting to unwind in a serene coastal setting.

Things to do in Shell Island

Shopping

Close to the beach, the Shell Island Resort offers a selection of beachwear and souvenirs. For unique gifts, explore local artisan shops in Wrightsville Beach, where you can find handmade crafts and coastal-themed items that reflect the area’s charm.

Recreation

At the Shell Island Resort Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments like massages and facials, surrounded by tranquil ocean sounds. Explore nature with guided kayak tours through the marshlands, providing a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with local wildlife.

Adventure

Explore Shell Island’s pristine beaches and engage in thrilling water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Join a guided eco-tour to discover local wildlife, or try your hand at fishing in the abundant waters. The natural beauty and tranquility of the island enhance each adventurous experience.

Nightlife

At Shell Island, the nightlife buzzes with cozy beach bars and laid-back lounges, where live music often creates a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy craft cocktails at the local hotspots or take a stroll along the shore under the stars for a serene end to your evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Shell Island

Shell Island, located near Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and urban charm. Visitors can explore its beautiful beaches, urban parks, and historic houses, making it ideal for cultural and family experiences. Enjoy weekend camping, discover island attractions, and visit neighboring islands for a memorable vacation. Whether you seek outdoor fun or a taste of local history, Shell Island caters to every traveler's interests.

  • Wrightsville Beach: Located 5km from Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach offers a classic coastal experience with its golden sands and inviting waves. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball, all while soaking in the vibrant beach atmosphere.
  • Johnnie Mercer's Pier: Just 1km from Shell Island, this pier is ideal for families and couples alike. Stroll along the wooden jetty, take in stunning ocean views, or try your hand at fishing for a memorable day by the water.
  • Figure Eight Island: Situated 6km away, Figure Eight Island is a serene getaway known for its pristine beaches and outdoor activities. Explore the island's natural beauty through kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the shore.

Best time to go to Shell Island

The best time to visit Shell Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Shell Island falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Shell Island falls in January, 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

Reaching Shell Island is convenient with three major airports nearby. Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is located 13km away, with hotels like Hotel Ballast Wilmington and ARRIVE Wilmington just 5km from the airport. FAYetteville Regional Airport (FAY) is 132km away, featuring hotels such as Doubletree by Hilton Fayetteville and Mt. Rose Hotel nearby. Lastly, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), located 121km from Shell Island, offers accommodations like Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa and DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront, both within a few miles of the airport. Each airport provides accessible transportation options to the respective hotels.

Frequently asked questions

What is Shell Island like?
Travelers will be sure to find plenty to entertain them in Wrightsville Beach's Shell Island neighborhood. Consider a visit to Wrightsville Beach as part of your Shell Island travel plans.
What's a favorite place to stay in Shell Island?
Based on our traveler data, Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites is one of the top choices for your stay in Shell Island. This resort is a short 1-minute walk from Wrightsville Beach, and it offers 2 bars and a restaurant.
How many hotels are there in the Shell Island area?
If you're searching for places to stay in Wrightsville Beach, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 110 Shell Island hotels and other accommodations to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Shell Island, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of hotel reservations are fully refundable if cancelled before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to get top deals in Shell Island.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Shell Island?
For additional details about rescheduling or cancelling your trip to Shell Island, head over to our customer service page.
What are the top things to see and do in Shell Island?
Wrightsville Beach is an attraction you might want to check out while you're in Shell Island. While you're out sightseeing, Wrightsville SUP and Wrightsville Beach Museum of History are a couple of additional sights to visit in Wrightsville Beach.