Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River, Wilmington is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation. You can spend your days walking through the historic city center, splashing in the waves at Wrightsville Beach, or simply enjoying the numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops throughout the town.
Wilmington is also incredibly dog-friendly, and there are plenty of Airbnb vacation rentals that welcome furry best friends with open arms. In this article, you’ll find a list of our top 12 favorite rentals, where you and your pet can enjoy a weekend of sun, sand, and surf!
Looking for a hotel stay? Check out the best pet-friendly hotels in Wilmington for more getaway ideas.
1. Charming Ranch Home with Spacious Backyard
Fees: $50 fee per stay.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
With a prime location in the middle of Wilmington, this 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home is close to all the action. It’s just a 10-minute drive to Wrightsville Beach and a 3-minute drive to the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
Once you step foot inside this traditional American ranch-style home, you’ll find a living room with a brick fireplace, a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, and a peaceful sun-room with a TV for entertainment. The spacious backyard also has plenty of grass to make your fur baby wag with delight.
2. Refurbished Wilmington Bungalow near Cross-Country Trail
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Pets must be under 30 pounds.
Fence: Yes
Located in the desirable neighborhood of Forest Hills, this quaint cottage is the perfect setting for pet owners and their pets. Not only are you within a short drive to the riverfront and beaches, but you’ll also be just one block away from the pet-friendly Cross-Country Trail. This 15-mile path takes you directly to the beach, although you can also just go for a leisurely run or bike ride.
The home itself was renovated last year with entirely new appliances, furniture, bedding, and decor. The backyard is also professionally maintained and has a fully enclosed yard where you can play a game of fetch with your pet.
3. Charming Ranch-Style North Carolina Airbnb with Modern Touches
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Pets must be up to date on flea medicine and shots. Pets must be crated when left unattended.
Fence: Yes
The highly-rated ranch-style house may have been built in the 1950s, but it has been tastefully refurbished with modern appliances and furnishes to make your stay as comfortable as possible. From the cozy fireplace in the living room to the fully-stocked kitchen, this home is a calming oasis in the heart of Wilmington.
There are a total of 3 bedrooms which can accommodate up to 6 guests. And don’t forget to bring Fido, as we know he’ll love playing in the enclosed yard outback.
4. Coastal Wilmington NC Rental with Sun-Soaked Deck
Fees: $125 per pet per stay.
Policies: One pet maximum. Pets must be approved beforehand.
Fence: No
Remodeled twice in the last 5 years, this beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home is full of contemporary beachy vibes. From the pastel-colored walls to the charming coastal decor, this is one of the best places to unwind and relax on vacation.
Step outside and enjoy the warm days of sunshine from the privacy of your outdoor deck. The wicker furniture and brand new cushions are so comfortable that it’ll be hard to convince you ever to leave. But if you do decide to hop into town, then you’ll be just 2-miles from downtown Wilmington and 6-miles from the beaches.
5. Stylish Bungalow with Large Backyard and Patio
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
Ideal for small families or group gatherings, this one-story bungalow is the epitome is style. The mid-century furnishings and brightly-colored decor are warm and inviting, while the glamorous chef’s kitchen adds a touch of sophistication to the place.
While the interior of the house is gorgeous, the outdoor space is particularly noteworthy. Right off the back door is a small patio with a propane grill, a seating area, and a fire pit. Twinkling patio lights illuminate the entire place at night, so you can still enjoy a meal or drink even when the sun sets. The entire yard is fully fenced, so you can also let your four-legged best friend enjoy the tranquil outdoor setting with you.
6. Rustic North Carolina Airbnb Cabin in the Woods
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Pets must be added during booking.
Fence: No
If you’re looking for a place to escape the bustle of city life, then look no further than this tiny cabin in the woods of Wilmington. Although it’s rather rustic, the cabin still comes stocked with many comforts of home, including a plush King-size bed and an ensuite bathroom. The kitchen isn’t really suited for meals, although there is a fire pit and BBQ outside in case you’re up for some grilling.
Surrounded by shady trees and lush green grass, this cabin is located in the back of the owner’s property. There’s plenty of room for lawn games or dog walks, although you’ll also be just a stone’s throw away from the riverfront.
7. Spacious Home with Unique Fountain Jacuzzi Tub
Fees: $50 fee per stay.
Policies: 2 dog maximum. No cats. Dogs must be approved beforehand.
Fence: Yes
Just a few miles to Airlie Gardens, Wrightsville Beach, and the Mayfair Town Center, this 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home is a great place to stay if you want to explore the best of what Wilmington has to offer. Although you probably won’t want to leave once you see all the amazing amenities awaiting you.
In addition to the open floor plan and soaring cathedral ceilings, this home also has an enclosed backyard with a deck, a gazebo with hammocks, and a ping pong table. However, the coolest (and most unique) feature of the home is the oversized jacuzzi tub in the master bathroom. It has a stone fountain feature that will make you feel like you’re bathing in ancient Rome!
8. Cozy Home Short Drive to Beach
Fees: $10 fee per stay.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
Between the stylish interior and spacious outdoor area, the Seagate Bungalow is a cozy retreat for a weekend getaway or week-long vacation. Due to its close location to the beach, you could spend every day sunbathing or swimming if you wanted! And when you come back, you’ll have a beautiful home to come back to.
There are 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, so it’s more than enough space to sleep you and five of your friends or family members. The home also has a large back yard and outdoor deck, as well as a small porch in the front.
9. Spacious Cottage Next to Kennedy Park
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
Although this adorable cottage may look small from the outside, it actually has 3 bedrooms, which is more than enough space to sleep up to 6 guests. We love the small touches that make this vacation rental feel like your own home, from the smart 55-inch TV in the living room to the tiled spa-like shower and tub in the bathrooms.
The surrounding neighborhood is perfect for an early morning walk with your pup. However, you can also make the quick 2-minute jaunt to Kennedy Park, where you’ll find playgrounds, basketball courts, and lots of green space to explore.
10. Wrightsville Beach Home with Outdoor Pool and Garden
Fees: $125 fee per stay.
Policies: Pets must be approved beforehand.
Fence: Yes
Treat yourself to a well-deserved vacation when you stay at this stunning home near Wrightsville Beach. This 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home is the owner’s winter getaway, although they have graciously opened it up for guests and their well-behaved pets.
The backyard space is nothing short of spectacular, with a professionally landscaped garden and outdoor swimming pool. The outdoor kitchen with a brick oven is great for entertaining, while the detached hot tub is perfect for soothing any aching muscles. You can even feel free to let your pup off-leash, thanks to the fully enclosed back yard.
11. Remodeled Home with Pretty Back Yard and Patio
Fees: $75 fee per stay.
Policies: No cats.
Fence: Yes
This immaculately clean and modern apartment was just remodeled in 2020, so you’ll get to enjoy brand new furniture and appliance during your stay. There are 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroom spread across one floor, as well as an open kitchen, dining room, and living area.
There is also plenty of outdoor space where you can chill when the weather is nice. Read a book on the front porch, throw a BBQ party in the back yard, or roast marshmallows around the fire pit while you watch for shooting stars.
12. Contemporary, Trendy, & Modern NC Airbnb
Fees: $40 fee per stay.
Policies: One pet maximum.
Fence: Yes
This vacation rental is an architectural work of art. From the Scandinavian-style furnishings and aesthetically pleasing decor to the sleek contemporary kitchen and modern spa-like bathrooms, you’ll feel as if you stepped foot inside the latest issue of Architectural Digest.
We love the minimalistic design touches throughout the house, including the light-filled attic, the record player and vinyl collection, and the collection of live plants. There’s even a sliding door to the backyard, which features a swing, hammock, and several sun loungers.
