In the Coastal Carolinas, a boat is more than a recreational toy; it is a legitimate mode of transportation. However, nothing kills a sunset cruise faster than circling a restaurant for 45 minutes only to realize their "waterfront" dining doesn't actually include a place to tie up.

For buyers in New Hanover, Pender, Onslow, and Brunswick counties, knowing the "dock-and-dine" landscape is as important as knowing the school districts. Whether you are running a 23-foot center console or a pontoon, here is your insider map to the restaurants where you can actually step off the gunwale and onto the patio.

Wilmington: The Downtown "Free" Slip Secret

Myth: "I have to pay for a slip at Port City Marina to eat downtown."
Reality: While Port City Marina is excellent for larger vessels or overnight stays, the City of Wilmington maintains public floating docks near the foot of Market Street (near the George and Anne Bonny).

The Insider Strategy: These slips are often free for short-term day docking on a first-come, first-served basis. If you can snag one, you have the entire Riverwalk—from Marina Grill to The George—at your disposal without a docking fee. Just watch the current; the Cape Fear River moves fast here, so fender up heavily.

Wrightsville Beach: The "Airlie" Corridor

The stretch along Airlie Road is the gold standard for boating access, but it gets crowded.

Dockside Restaurant: The classic. The docks here are sturdy, but space is tight on weekends. It is best for boats under 25 feet.

The Fish House Grill: Located right at the drawbridge. The current rips through here when the tide changes, so approach against the tide for better control.

The Bridge Tender: A slightly more upscale option with dedicated slips. This is the move if you want a white-tablecloth dinner after a day on the water.

Southport & Oak Island: The Old Florida Vibe

This region offers a more relaxed, "Old Florida" feel where the tea is sweet and the docks are rugged.

Provision Company (Southport): This is arguably the most famous dock-and-dine spot in the region. You pull straight up to the covered patio.

Strategic Advice: The docks here are exposed to the wake of the Cape Fear River channel. Use spring lines and extra fenders to avoid banging against the pilings when large ships pass.

Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill (Southport): Located at Safe Harbor South Harbour Village, this is a great alternative if the Yacht Basin is full. The approach is deep and well-protected.

Surf City & Sneads Ferry: Navigating the "Skinny" Water

In Pender and Onslow counties, the water gets thinner, and local knowledge of the channels is critical.

Sears Landing (Surf City): Located near the swing bridge, this is a favorite for breakfast and lunch.

The Reality Check: The approach can be shallow at dead low tide. If your boat draws more than 2–3 feet, check the tide charts before committing.

Riverview Cafe (Sneads Ferry): A legendary spot for local seafood. It sits right on the New River. It’s an easy approach, but the docks are rustic. This is not a place for white pants; it’s a place for serious shrimp eating.

Your Next Step

Living the boat-to-table lifestyle requires a home with the right water access. A property listed as "waterfront" doesn't always mean you have navigable water at low tide. You need a team that understands mean low water (MLW) depths, bridge clearance, and CAMA permits.

Aspyre Realty Group are experts in listening and communicating people's wants into homes that work for them. Let us help you find a property that serves as the perfect home port for your vessels and your family.