Johnnie Mercer’s Pier is the only concrete fishing pier in the state of North Carolina. Located in the heart of Wrightsville Beach and extending over 1200′ into the Atlantic Ocean Johnnie Mercer’s Pier is a must for anyone visiting the area.
Standing 25 feet above sea level, this magnificent concrete structure represents the latest in storm-resistant technology. It is the first pier in North Carolina able to sustain 200 mph winds, and its windows are built to withstand storm gales up to 150 mph. The light poles consist of spun concrete, and even the trash receptacles are made of stone.
The pier’s claim to fame is its solid concrete construction, which is unusual along the Carolina coastline, and was originally a direct response to the devastation caused by passing hurricanes. In fact, the original Johnnie Mercer’s Pier was built in the 1930s and was a completely wooden structure that was a local landmark along the beach scene.
The pier was named “Johnnie Mercer” in honor of one of the original 1939 owners, who was a famous singer and songwriter, and who also ran the pier for more than 20 years until his death in 1964.
This original pier withstood the elements for nearly six decades and generations of anglers until 1996, when Wrightsville Beach was assaulted by the one-two hit of Hurricane Bertha and Hurricane Fran. While the majority of the Carolina coastline from the Outer Banks to the Lowcountry came through these storms relatively unscathed, Johnnie Mercer’s Pier was devastated and was essentially demolished.
The pier extends 1,200′ feet into the Atlantic Ocean, making it a fantastic destination for just a long, easy-going exploration of the coastline, and photographers will certainly want to capture the incredible views that stretch all the way from Wrightsville Beach’s shoreline to the borders of neighboring Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Wilmington, and beyond.
The pier also features an extensive pier house, which in turn features a tackle shop, grill, gift shop, and a small arcade for visitors who would rather spend a little time out of the sun.
