Area Guide
Get to Know Topsail Island
Discover Carolina’s Unspoiled Coast
Located just off the North Carolina coast, you’ll find unspoiled beaches, a close-knit community, and an idyllic hideaway perfect for your family vacations or peaceful getaways. Here, there are no high-rise developments and no light pollution disturbing the natural beauty, this island has maintained its simple way of life, and that’s what keeps visitors coming back year after year.
Made up of three distinct communities: North Topsail Beach, Surf City (the largest), and Topsail Beach, this 26-mile-long barrier island offers everything you need for a picture-perfect beach vacation. From educational outings at local museums to leisurely days spent on the water or exploring the island’s shops and recreational activities, whether you’re chasing the lore of pirate tales or simply looking for a quiet escape, you’ll find it all on Topsail Island.
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Explore Beyond the Shore
With expansive beaches and the brilliant waters of the Atlantic and the Intracoastal Waterway right at your doorstep, no trip to Topsail Island is complete without time spent at the beach relaxing on the warm sand or splashing in the waves. But when it’s time to explore beyond the shore, there are tons of ways to fill your days on Topsail Island. From fishing for king mackerel and mahi-mahi to watersports like kayaking, surfing, or paddleboarding – there’s no limit to the fun you can have. Consider booking a fishing charter with Queen Jean or Sloop Point Charter Co. for deep-sea action, or book a scenic sunset or dolphin cruise with Tiki Tours. From stories of Blackbeard to prize-winning fishing adventures, your time on shore or out at sea will leave you with stories you’ll remember forever.
Fun for Everyone
Outside of water activities, Topsail Island offers a plethora of things the whole family can enjoy. If you’re traveling with little ones, nothing beats the Topsail Island Skating Rink or putt-putt at Patio Playground. You can even make the short 30-minute drive to Jacksonville, NC, and visit the Altitude Trampoline Park for high-flying adventures – perfect for a rainy day.
History buffs will enjoy an afternoon at the Missiles and More Museum, where you can learn all about Operation Bumblebee, the role Topsail Island played in our nation’s military past, and even how the island came to be. For leisurely activities, a round of golf at North Shore Country Club or retail therapy at the charming stores of Surf City will help you feel like a local during your stay.
Tastes of Topsail
From delicious seafood to sweet treats, the dining scene on Topsail Island does not disappoint. Whether you’re sampling the surf and turf at Buddy’s Crab House & Oyster Bar or satisfying your cravings with Fractured Prune’s homemade donuts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For a taste of Topsail Island’s craft creations, Hidden Ships Distillery has you covered as the island’s first distillery and craft cocktail bar. From tours to pairings, it’s an excellent introduction to the influence of the region on Gin, Rum, and Bourbon. If you’re a wine lover, a visit to The Locals Art Gallery and Wine Bar offers a sip-and-see experience where you can view pieces from local artists while you enjoy craft beer, wine, and tasty bites, too!
Celebrate Conservation
Topsail Island is committed to conservation, and you’re invited to learn all about the region’s efforts when you visit. For an exciting afternoon full of cuddly fun and southern cooking, Mike’s Farm is the place to go. Feed the friendly animals, take a tour of the farm, shop hand-made goods at their on-site store, and even grab a bite at their family-style restaurant! If you visit in spring or fall, you can even visit the pickin’ patch, where you can scoop up the freshest strawberries and biggest pumpkins on the coast.
For an introduction to marine life conservation, a tour at Karen Beasley’s Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center in Surf City is a must. Learn all about the efforts being made to preserve our turtle’s natural habitats and get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. From the land to the water, the community of Topsail tirelessly works to ensure its splendor is around for generations to come.
