Johnnie Mercers Pier & Beach

About

Johnnie Mercer's Pier stretches out over the Atlantic Ocean at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offering one of the coast's most welcoming spots for fishing, ocean watching, and soaking in salt air. It's the kind of place where you can spend a whole afternoon with a rod in hand or simply walk out over the waves and take in the view.

The pier provides all rental fishing equipment on-site, so there's no need to bring your own gear. You also won't need a fishing license, which removes one more barrier to a great day out. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, the staff can help get you set up.

Located at Access #16 on Wrightsville Beach, the pier sits beside East Salisbury Park's oceanfront gazebo. This is one of the island's most popular public access points, and for good reason. You'll find public restrooms, beach showers, and parking all within easy reach. The surrounding area has plenty of dining options too, with waterfront restaurants like Oceanic and Bluewater Waterfront Grill nearby.

Each October, the pier hosts a children's disability fishing tournament, a beloved local tradition that brings families together around the joy of fishing. It's a highlight of the community calendar and speaks to the pier's genuine commitment to welcoming everyone.

Wrightsville Beach itself is a barrier island just east of Wilmington, making it an easy day trip or weekend destination. The town has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and other beach access points scattered along the island. If you're planning a longer visit, Wilmington offers museums, riverfront dining, and historic districts worth exploring.

The combination of free wheelchair access, equipment rentals, and a staff that's ready to help makes Johnnie Mercer's Pier stand out as a genuinely inclusive coastal experience. It's a place where the focus stays on enjoying the ocean, not on worrying about logistics.

Accessibility

Johnnie Mercer's Pier is described as fully accessible. Wheelchair users can access the pier free of charge, while other visitors can purchase a walkout pass or fishing pass for the day. The pier itself is designed to be accessible, though specific details about ramp grades or surface materials should be confirmed directly with the venue.

The pier is located at Access #16 on Wrightsville Beach, which provides public restrooms, beach showers, and parking. Many nearby restaurants, including Oceanic and Bluewater Waterfront Grill, offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, restrooms, and seating areas.

All fishing equipment, including rod and reel rentals, is available on-site. No fishing license is required. The annual children's disability fishing tournament in October demonstrates the venue's active commitment to inclusive programming.

For beach access beyond the pier, visitors should be aware that sand conditions can vary. Contact Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation for information about beach wheelchair availability or mat-style accessible pathways to the shoreline. For the most current details on specific ADA features, restroom accessibility, and any seasonal changes, contact Johnnie Mercer's Pier directly before your visit.

More accessible places in North Carolina

• Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site (Flat Rock)
• Fort Raleigh National Historic Site (Manteo)
• Guilford Courthouse National Military Park (Greensboro)
• Moores Creek National Battlefield (Currie)
• Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kitty Hawk)
• Great Wolf Lodge Concord (Concord)