My husband and I just got back from a trip to North Carolina. We drove all around the state and saw so much beauty, but my favorite was probably our 2 night stay in Wilmington, right by the beach!

When I lived in Northern California, my family would often visit Monterey Bay, and I loved visiting the beach. However, it was a colder beach, full of tide pools which were so fun to explore. Visiting the beach in North Carolina was a different experience for me- and I loved it! Sandy beaches, walking barefoot through the tides and enjoying the breeze, basking in the sun- it was just the rejuvenation I needed. I can confidently say that I am definitely a beach girl.

Now if you’re going to spend a couple days by the beach, I’m pretty sure it’s a crime to not indulge in some great seafood! I asked for some recommendations, and a restaurant called The Oceanic at the Crystal Pier came highly recommended.

This dining experience was just spectacular. The restaurant sits right on the beach, and is full of large windows and outdoor seating, so unless it’s completely dark, you have a perfect view of the ocean. And then there’s the food. When you’re literally dining over the ocean, it’s no surprise that you are going to be having- seafood! And absolutely fresh, delicious seafood.

My sweet husband is not the biggest fan of seafood, but he knows that I love it. And even with this restaurant being pricier than our normal dining range, he wanted us to indulge. I ordered the fresh catch of the day (mahi with a lemon butter glaze), and he was able to get a steak. We also ordered two appetizers, because I couldn’t decide on just one! Shrimp with a thai sweet and spicy chili sauce, and a cheesy crab dip with buttered toast. Everything was AWESOME. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Our cute waitress also served us hushpuppies before bringing our food, and they were so good! It’s the only thing I thought to take a picture of.

Once the other food was brought out I was too busy eating and enjoying the company of my amazing better half (and our cute little third wheel ;) ).

Overall, it was just such a wonderful experience. It was definitely more expensive than we typically spend, but I totally believe that sometimes it’s ok to splurge for an experience! I was so touched that my husband made this experience such a priority, especially when seafood really isn’t his thing. But he knows it’s mine. He’s so good to me- and I’m so grateful for him.

Have you ever splurged for a specific dining experience? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below!

    Camille Hoffmann
    Weekly Newsletter Contributor since 2014
    Email the author! camille@dvo.com