In Wrightsville Beach at the foot of the bridge lies a stretch of waterway that offers the abundance of the sea. But far from being a well-guarded secret, this special spot is a favorite of the locals and visitors alike.

The Bridge Tender Village on historic Airlie Road includes two restaurants specializing in fresh seafood, a full-service marina with a charter fleet, an on call dive boat, and a gift shop where nearly every item features a fin.