
Trailborn, one of the fastest-growing brands in outdoor hospitality acclaimed for its beautifully designed boutique hotels, destination dining and bars, and curated experiences in extraordinary locations, announced the official opening ofTrailborn Surf & Sound, a revitalized property creating a new hospitality landmark in one of the country’s best surf towns.
“Trailborn is thrilled to uphold the legendary status of this coastal gem and create a higher quality experience that ensures the hotel continues to be a beloved spot for locals, while also meeting the evolving expectations of travelers,” said Mike Weiss, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Trailborn.
“Trailborn Surf & Sound will have so much to offer – including a one-of-a-kind location with both beach and sound access, elegantly designed guest rooms and spaces inspired by the region’s maritime heritage, and curated experiential programming perfect for enjoying the town’s incredible coastal activities and offerings,” said Ben Weinberg, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Trailborn.
Upgraded Public Spaces and Guest Rooms
As part of Trailborn’s extensive renovations, the team worked with the award-winning design firm,Post Company, to breathe new life into the public spaces, guest rooms, and food and beverage concepts to create an on-property experience deeply inspired by Wrightsville Beach and the hotel’s unparalleled location. Renovation highlights include a refreshed arrival, with the exterior enhanced by white brick accents and Juliet balconies offering stunning views of the coastline and sound. A new wood-accented entryway with a minimal wood and stone-clad desk warmly greets guests as they arrive at the hotel. The property’s dynamic lobby space is furnished with an abundance of comfortable seating areas, spanning French doors leading to the beach, and artwork inspired by the surrounding coast and beach town. The lobby serves as the heart of the on-property experience and channels guests to the hotel’s extensive boardwalk and the property grounds’ expansive lawn and beautifully landscaped gardens – where guests can enjoy curated programming exclusively offered by Trailborn. The lobby’s new retail market serves as a brand new storefront that brings the property’s eclectic and playful spirit to life with thoughtfully curated items like goods from North Carolina brands such as Big Spoon Roasters, Carolina Chips, and local beer brands, as well as limited edition merchandise and custom frisbees and pool and toys. Each of the 151 guest rooms has undergone a meticulous redesign intended to encourage relaxation after a day in the sun, and all include either full balconies opening up to the ocean or picturesque Juliet balconies providing views of both the ocean and sound sides. Inspired by the maritime location, rooms feature rattan-accented benches, ceilings with blue detailing, blue-hued tile flooring in the spacious bathrooms, a subtle wave motif at the minibar, and locally curated artwork.
New Food & Beverage Concepts
Trailborn Surf & Sound will unveil a variety of new dining options opening this spring that will serve as new spaces for travelers and locals to gather and enjoy seaside dining. Guests will be able to indulge in Italian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine atLa Duna Paradiso, the resort’s destination restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and house-made pasta. Menu highlights will include Grilled Prawns with lemon, olive oil, and red pepper crema; Bucatini Carbonara with double-smoked bacon; and Halibut served with creamy polenta, Brussels sprouts, squash, and sage brown butter. The restaurant’s beverage program reflects the heritage of the cuisine, with a variety of Old World wines and aperitifs. The vibrant atmosphere, adorned with natural materials, patterned fabrics, oak floors, patinated leather, and ocean views, creates the perfect backdrop for festive brunches and dinners. For events and gatherings, La Duna Paradiso will also include La Costa, a private dining room capable of seating groups of up to 14.
Trailborn Surf & Sound signals the next step forward for the historic property, which has existed since 1897. The property has seen several chapters, from initially opening as the Seashore Hotel, then reopening as the Ocean Terrace Hotel in the mid-1900s, and most recently, operating as the Blockade Runner Beach Resort. Throughout each iteration, the hotel has continued to rise as a top destination for locals and travelers. The debut of Trailborn Surf & Sound marks a new era for the hotel that celebrates the charm of its past while introducing modern luxury, elevated design, and an upgraded experience for both guests and locals. Trailborn Surf & Sound is located 15 minutes from Wilmington International Airport (with direct flights from cities including New York City, Miami, and Atlanta) and downtown Wilmington, and approximately a 2.5-hour drive from the Raleigh-Durham area, making it the perfect getaway for beach lovers returning to Wrightsville Beach or looking to explore a new destination.