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, (1,804 reviews)
"Beautiful ocean views and access, helpful staff."
United States
Sandra
The price is NT$4,206
NT$5,624 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
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, (1,001 reviews)
"Great place"
United States
Ferdinand
The price is NT$4,401
NT$6,078 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 15 - Nov 16
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, (1,000 reviews)
"Enjoyed our stay"
United States
Pamela
The price is NT$3,582
NT$4,048 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 23 - Nov 24
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)
"Every thing was really nice"
United States
David M
The price is NT$4,683
NT$5,292 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Silver Gull Motel

5. 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, (382 reviews)
"Staff was awesome"
United States
Brian
The price is NT$5,836
NT$8,436 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

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, (1,002 reviews)
"Nice place to stay"
United States
Kim
The price is NT$3,575
NT$4,039 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
SpringHill Suites® by Marriott® Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

7. 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, (776 reviews)
"Great place for a quick trip to Wilmington!"
United States
Amy
The price is NT$3,101
NT$3,504 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach

8. Surf Suites

Surf Suites
2.5 star property
South End, 4 km from Shell Island
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (685 reviews)
"Second stay here and would come back again for the beach views, spacious suites, and great coffee shop/cafe across the street!"
United States
Megan
The price is NT$3,785
NT$5,014 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Surf Suites

9. 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 NT$2,910
NT$3,288 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington

10. 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, (1,129 reviews)
"Loved everything about our stay"
United States
Ashlee
The price is NT$4,251
NT$4,803 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront

11. Comfort Inn University

Comfort Inn University
2.5 star property
8.2 km from Shell Island
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,609 reviews)
"Very clean and the staff was great. Great hotel for family"
United States
Craig
The price is NT$2,743
NT$3,100 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Comfort Inn University

12. 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, (1,728 reviews)
"NIce place, would stay there again for sure."
United States
Lee
The price is NT$3,876
NT$4,380 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

13. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"This is a great pet friendly hotel. Very clean and centrally located."
United States
Deborah Caitlin
The price is NT$2,540
NT$2,870 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire Town Center

14. 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, (1,003 reviews)
"Clean rooms...staff very kind....breakfast delicious"
United States
Deborah
The price is NT$3,048
NT$3,444 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Hampton Inn Wilmington - University Area/Smith Creek Station

15. 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, (1,006 reviews)
"Very nice property and staff. Will definitely stay again."
United States
Whitney
The price is NT$3,020
NT$3,413 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 29 - Oct 30
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach

16. Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire
3.0 star property
4.7 km from Shell Island
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Room was clean but had wear and tear such as the carpet coming up. Staff was so nice and helpful, hot tub was amazing!"
United States
Isabelle
The price is NT$3,422
NT$3,867 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Homewood Suites Wilmington/Mayfaire

17. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wilmington West - Medical Park by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wilmington West - Medical Park by IHG
2.5 star property
14 km from Shell Island
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
"Rooms were clean and staff was friendly."
United States
Nicole
The price is NT$3,198
NT$3,614 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wilmington West - Medical Park by IHG

18. Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington / Wrightsville Beach

Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington / Wrightsville Beach
3.0 star property
8.4 km from Shell Island
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"I have to give this establishment 5 stars because aside from the fact that we had full sized beds and breakfast was it complementary the staff was kind place was clean and the place did not wreak of Marajuana everything was great for our 2 night stay!"
United States
Erin E
The price is NT$3,127
NT$3,534 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington / Wrightsville Beach

19. Element by Marriott Wilmington

Element by Marriott Wilmington
3.0 star property
4.5 km from Shell Island
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (132 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Elizabeth
The price is NT$4,271
NT$4,826 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Element by Marriott Wilmington

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 NT$4,129
NT$4,666 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
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
1,804 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
1,001 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 modern hotel building with a prominent 'tru by Hilton' sign, multiple floors, and a well-lit entrance.
Tru By Hilton Wilmington Wrightsville Beach
2.5 star property
9.4
Exceptional
776 reviews
View
An outdoor patio with string lights, tables, and chairs.
Hampton Inn Wilmington - University Area/Smith Creek Station
2.5 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,003 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

  • Pristine Beaches: Shell Island features stunning beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy camping, surfing lessons, and scenic boardwalks for an active getaway.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: The area offers numerous engaging experiences for families, including local excursions.
  • Cultural Exploration: Discover historical sites and enjoy the local culture while exploring nearby neighborhoods.
  • Diverse Accommodations: A range of hotels and rentals caters to all travelers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels in and around Shell Island

Shell Island offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and resorts, perfect for both leisure and business travelers. With a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQIA community and access to adventure vacation experiences, visitors can enjoy a memorable stay. Whether you're looking for holiday rentals or comfortable rooms, Shell Island has something for everyone, ensuring a delightful getaway in the beautiful surroundings of Wrightsville Beach.

  • Shell Island Resort - All Oceanfront Suites: This 3.5-star resort offers a family-friendly beach experience with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. Located directly on Shell Island, it features spacious oceanfront suites that provide stunning views and easy beach access. Ideal for families, the resort includes amenities such as a children's pool, highchairs upon request, and breakfast options tailored for kids. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the proximity to the sandy shores, making it a great choice for a memorable family vacation.
  • Trailborn Surf and Sound, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy: With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this 3-star property is perfect for adventurous families seeking beach fun. Situated just 3km from Shell Island, it offers direct beach access and a variety of adventure sports, including kayaking, sailing, and surfing. The resort provides kid-friendly amenities like free cribs and games, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Guests enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the onsite recreational activities, making it a fantastic spot for those looking to explore the waters.
  • Comfort Inn University: This budget-friendly hotel has a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10 and is located 8km from Shell Island. It caters to families with essential amenities such as free cribs and a first aid kit for peace of mind. The hotel offers a comfortable stay with convenient access to local attractions, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers. Guests appreciate the welcoming environment and the easy access to Wrightsville Beach, ensuring a pleasant family getaway.

Where to stay near Shell Island

Shell Island, a charming neighborhood near Wrightsville Beach, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Explore pristine Shell Beach or unwind at the cozy Beach Chalet, where family-friendly activities abound. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and take advantage of nearby excursions for a memorable vacation experience. Whether you're looking for sun-soaked days or scenic strolls, Shell Island's inviting vibe will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

  • Wrightsville Beach: Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Wrightsville Beach serves as a vibrant city and the gateway to Shell Island. This popular destination sees a surge of visitors during the summer months, particularly from June to July and in September. Travelers flock here for its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the scenic boardwalk, indulge in local seafood at beachfront eateries, or take part in various recreational activities. Must-visit landmarks include the picturesque family beach, which is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, and the lively town neighborhood filled with charming shops and cafes.
  • Parmele Isle: Just 644m from Shell Island, Parmele Isle is a quaint neighborhood that offers a unique blend of beach and city-themed experiences. While not incredibly seasonal, visitor numbers peak during the summer, specifically from June to August. This area is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures, with access to beautiful recreational spaces and a bustling boardwalk. Family-friendly attractions abound, making it a great spot for those traveling with children. Explore the nearby beaches and enjoy the community's warm atmosphere while taking in the sights of this lovely neighborhood.
  • South Harbor Island: Located 2km away from Shell Island, South Harbor Island is a charming neighborhood that attracts visitors year-round. With peak travel during the summer months, especially from June to August, it offers a delightful mix of beach relaxation and outdoor activities. Families will love the recreational areas and the opportunity to try their hand at golf. The local beaches are perfect for a day of sand and surf, while the nearby boardwalk provides a lovely setting for evening strolls. With its friendly community vibe and proximity to beautiful landscapes, South Harbor Island is a must-visit.

Things to do in Shell Island

Shopping

For shopping near Shell Island, visit the nearby Mayfaire Town Center, featuring a variety of shops from fashion to home goods. In Wrightsville Beach, explore local boutiques and souvenir shops offering unique gifts, artwork, and beach-themed items to take home.

Recreation

Shell Island offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for yoga on the beach, meditation sessions, and rejuvenating spa treatments. For outdoor enthusiasts, kayaking and paddleboarding provide a refreshing way to explore the coastal beauty while connecting with nature.

Adventure

At Shell Island, explore the unspoiled beaches while kayaking through serene waters, or take a guided eco-tour to observe local wildlife. Try your hand at fishing from the shore or embark on a thrilling paddleboarding adventure, soaking in the beautiful coastal scenery.

Nightlife

Visit the Oceanic Restaurant on Wrightsville Beach for a scenic sunset dinner and cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, check out the nearby Bluewater Waterfront Grill, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and live music while taking in views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shell Island

To save money on your trip to Shell Island, visit during the off-peak months of December to February when prices are lower, and aim for a Tuesday check-in to get the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly accommodations and consider booking a package deal that includes flights and activities for instant savings. Additionally, explore free activities around the beach, and utilize public transport to keep travel costs down. Planning your visit during less busy times will enhance your experience while saving money.

  • 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 refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay on Shell Island with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions near Shell Island

Shell Island, situated near Wrightsville Beach, offers a perfect blend of beach and outdoor activities, alongside urban parks and historic houses. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly experiences, weekend camping, and explore neighboring islands. Key attractions include stunning beach vistas, cultural sites, and excellent campsites, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in a beautiful coastal setting.

  • Wrightsville Beach: Located 5km from Shell Island, this picturesque beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with soft sands and rolling waves. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in beach sports, making it a favorite for both relaxation and adventure seekers.
  • Johnnie Mercer's Pier: Just 1km away, this charming pier provides a family-friendly environment for fishing and scenic strolls. It’s also a romantic spot for sunset views and a popular destination for local businesses, enhancing the community vibe.
  • Figure Eight Island: About 6km from Shell Island, this serene island is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Explore nature trails, enjoy kayaking, or simply relax on the pristine sands surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

Best time to go to Shell Island

The best time to visit Shell Island is dependent 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

Traveling to Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach is convenient with several major airports nearby. MYRtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is located 121km away, with nearby hotels such as Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes and DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront. WILMington International Airport (ILM) is only 13km away, offering excellent accommodations like Hotel Ballast Wilmington and ARRIVE Wilmington. For travelers flying into Jacksonville, Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) is 69km from Shell Island, with options like Chateau Rouge and Coastal Motel nearby. Each airport provides accessible transportation to these hotels, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

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.

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