A New Era for a Coastal Gem

Trailborn Surf & Sound, formerly the Blockade Runner Beach Resort, reopens in Wrightsville Beach after extensive renovations, offering modern luxury while honoring its coastal heritage

By Carin Hall

Known as a beloved destination for surfers, fishing enthusiasts, vacationing families, and anyone seeking a laid-back beach experience, Wrightsville Beach just got even better with the opening of Trailborn Surf & Sound. Formerly the Seashore Hotel, Ocean Terrace Hotel, and most recently the Blockade Runner Beach Resort, this iconic coastal landmark has been transformed into a modern escape while retaining its historic charm.

A Legacy Reimagined

The site has been a staple of the Wrightsville Beach community for over a century. The current structure was built in 1962 as one of the area's first high-rise hotels, designed to withstand hurricanes. Now, under the Trailborn brand, the property emerges as a luxury, adventure-focused retreat that honors its past while offering a fresh, upscale experience.

At Trailborn, the mission is simple: to inspire your next adventure. The brand is dedicated to getting guests outdoors to experience magical moments in extraordinary places, crafting memories that spark new stories to tell. Trailborn Surf & Sound embodies this ethos by seamlessly blending luxury with outdoor exploration, offering an ideal jumping-off point for beachside adventures and coastal relaxation.

Nicolas Montoya, the General Manager, who has served at the location for over 22 years, shared his excitement about the transformation under the Trailborn brand. "The ownership is very exciting in many ways,” he says. “They’ve built a hospitality company centered around outdoor experiential travel, and we have the perfect backyard playground here.” 

The rebranding highlights the property’s unique location, offering both ocean and sound access, ideal for surfing, paddleboarding, and other water activities. Every Trailborn property, including Surf & Sound, serves as a thoughtfully designed base camp, with curated amenities and local partnerships that make exploring the natural surroundings easy and inspiring.

Modern Comfort, Coastal Charm

Designed by the award-winning Post Company, the revamped hotel features a spacious, open lobby that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor experiences. The new design also incorporates contemporary aesthetics while preserving the building’s original Art Deco architecture. Guests can now enjoy a modern, breezy atmosphere with easy access to the boardwalk and outdoor areas where events like yoga sessions and oyster roasts will be held.

Each of the redesigned 151 guest rooms offers either a full balcony with ocean views or a Juliet balcony overlooking the sound. Thoughtful details like rattan-accented benches, blue-hued tile flooring, and locally inspired artwork add a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. The Deluxe Garden Suite, featuring a kitchenette and three beds, is perfect for families or groups seeking a comfortable getaway.

Culinary Delights, Family Fun, and Local Connection

Families looking for a memorable stay will love the Family Adventure package, which includes kid-friendly perks like in-room camping, a Trailborn stuffed animal, and a scavenger hunt bingo board, plus breakfast at La Duna Paradiso. It's a perfect way to introduce little adventurers to the beauty of Wrightsville Beach.

Several new drinking and dining options have opened this year, including La Duna Paradiso, the in-house restaurant, features a Mediterranean-inspired menu highlighting local seafood and house-made pasta. The hotel’s lobby bar, Bar Duna, serves coffee, pastries, and cocktails, while the beachfront Blockade Surf Bar offers tropical drinks and casual bites, complete with cabanas and lounge seating for laid-back socializing.

The new hospitality approach also welcomes locals, with several amenities and events open to the public. From live music and beachside barbecues to surf lessons and kayak rentals, Trailborn Surf & Sound is poised to become not just a favorite for visitors but a community hub as well.

Preserving Nature and Building Community

Committed to environmental stewardship, Trailborn supports local conservation efforts through its "Keep Extraordinary" initiative, donating a portion of each booking to the North Carolina Coastal Federation. "We see the beauty of where we are, and we believe in being stewards of that," Montoya emphasizes.

With its blend of history, modern luxury, and community integration, Trailborn Surf & Sound marks a new chapter for Wrightsville Beach, offering a refreshed experience while honoring its rich legacy.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit  trailborn.com/surf-sound.