Demand Surge: What’s Fueling Retail & Restaurant Leasing in NC Beaches

September 02, 2025

Retail and restaurant leasing is booming along North Carolina’s coast—and nowhere is that growth more evident than in Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach. These two coastal towns are seeing increased interest from investors, entrepreneurs, and established businesses alike. Driven by strong tourism numbers, a rising year-round population, and limited commercial inventory, demand for Carolina Beach retail space and Wrightsville Beach commercial property is showing no signs of slowing down.

What’s Behind the Coastal Commercial Boom?

Tourism-Driven Revenue

Summer tourism is a major economic driver. According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce, travel and tourism support over 225,000 jobs across the state and inject billions of dollars into local economies. Carolina Beach and Wrightsville Beach each welcome tens of thousands of visitors during peak season, fueling demand for dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

A recent market update from SCP Commercial reinforces this trend:

“Foot traffic rises in warmer months, and retail tenants prioritize spring openings to capture summer spending.”

Growth in Full-Time Residents

What once were primarily vacation towns are now growing year-round communities. Remote work, retirement migration, and lifestyle shifts have brought in more full-time residents, driving demand beyond the summer season. Businesses such as coffee shops, wellness studios, convenience retail, and professional services are thriving thanks to consistent local foot traffic.

High Visibility and Walkability

Both towns offer built-in exposure for businesses. Commercial corridors like Lake Park Boulevard in Carolina Beach and Lumina Avenue in Wrightsville Beach are walkable, centrally located, and close to the beach, making them ideal for storefronts that benefit from daily foot traffic and event-driven surges.

Businesses That Are Thriving in Coastal Markets

These coastal towns are fertile ground for a wide variety of successful retail and food concepts, including:

  • Quick-service and fast-casual restaurants
  • Ice cream and dessert shops
  • Coffee houses and bakeries
  • Surfwear, beach gear, and boutique retail
  • Spas, fitness studios, and wellness centers
  • Taprooms, breweries, and local craft beverage outlets
  • Pet services, local groceries, and specialty shops

The combination of seasonal peaks and steady year-round demand creates ideal conditions for long-term brand growth.

Leasing Trends and Key Market Stats

Carolina Beach

  • Retail accounts for more than 14,000 square feet of available space
  • Lease rates range from $21/SF to over $400/SF, depending on location and condition
  • High interest in storefronts along Lake Park Boulevard, Cape Fear Boulevard, and near the Boardwalk

(Sources: SCP Commercial, CommercialCafe, RealMo)

Wrightsville Beach

  • Limited commercial inventory—only a handful of properties available at any given time
  • Lease rates are at a premium due to exclusivity and visibility
  • High competition for commercial properties near public beach access, marinas, and dining clusters

(Sources: Rofo, SeaGlass Realty)

3 Challenges to Consider

  1. Low Inventory, High Demand

In Wrightsville Beach, especially, the supply is extremely limited. Opportunities are often off-market or snapped up quickly. Carolina Beach offers more inventory, but prime locations still go fast.

  1. Zoning and Parking Limitations

Coastal towns have strict zoning ordinances, especially near the water. Parking availability can also influence the viability of a restaurant or retail location.

  1. Cost of Entry

While some affordable entry points exist, premium coastal properties command premium rates. However, visibility and seasonal revenue potential often justify the investment.

Why Work with SCP Commercial

Securing the right restaurant space in coastal NC or waterfront commercial real estate in Carolina or Wrightsville Beach takes more than a quick search. It requires local insight, deep market knowledge, and the right timing.

At SCP Commercial, we specialize in connecting investors and business owners with coastal commercial opportunities that match their goals, whether that’s launching a seasonal retail concept, opening a new dining location, or expanding an existing brand.

Let’s Find the Right Location for Your Business

Whether you're leasing, buying, or investing, Carolina Beach retail space and Wrightsville Beach commercial property offer unique opportunities in one of the most desirable areas in the Southeast. Contact SCP Commercial today to learn more about available listings and upcoming market openings.