Topsail Beach is the southernmost town on Topsail Island. The gorgeous island is one of North Carolina’s best year-round vacation destinations for beach lovers of all ages. Enjoy moderate climate; uncrowded, warm-water beaches; and fantastic attractions. Topsail Beach is also just minutes away from other lovely towns such as Surf City, which is nestled between Jacksonville and Wilmington. Whether you’re looking forward to tasting local seafood at a seaside restaurant, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying the area’s many water sports, Topsail Beach has it all. Book a stay at one of many Topsail Beach vacation rentals today. Here are 10 fun things to do in and around Topsail Beach.
1. Topsail Island Tours
What better way to explore Topsail Island than by boat? Topsail Island Tours offers evening cruises that give you a gorgeous view of the island’s sunset on the water, as well as fishing adventures for adults, plus family-friendly excursions. As you cruise along the Atlantic, there’s a good chance you’ll see fascinating local wildlife such as dolphins and ospreys. You’re welcome to pack your own picnic, or take advantage of the boat’s onboard sandwiches, burgers, snacks, and drinks.
2. Patio Playground
Patio Playground is the perfect place to bring the kids for a day of family-friendly fun. The popular facility boasts a fantastic miniature golf course, an air-conditioned arcade, and an ice cream shop. Be sure to check the calendar, as Patio Playground frequently hosts family-friendly dance nights with DJs. Sometimes there are even costumed characters that your kids can pose with for photographs. If you feel like going on a bicycle adventure after you’re done playing, there’s a bike rental shop available.
3. Topsail Skating Rink
Topsail Skating Rink offers old-school roller skating for the whole family. This retro facility opened in 1964, and it has been a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors ever since. The rink is made from hardwood, just like the nostalgic skating rinks of times gone by. To really set the mood, they even play music on a 45 RPM record player. Roller skate rentals, sodas, and snacks are available.
4. North Topsail Beach Town Park
North Topsail Beach Town Park is a delightful, family-friendly park that’s sure to please outdoor enthusiasts. Relax in the gazebo that juts over the Atlantic Ocean, or pack a picnic and sit on the picnic tables that dot the grassy areas. Enjoy a game of basketball, volleyball, or horseshoes on the park’s courts. If you’re traveling with children, be sure to bring them to the Tot Lot, a playground structure just for kids.
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5. The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center
Sea turtles are fascinating, intelligent creatures, and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center is dedicated to protecting and caring for them. Enjoy a tour of the facility, complete with knowledgeable experts who will teach you all about sea turtles. When you’re done, be sure to stop by the gift shop so you can bring home a sea turtle souvenir to remind you of your visit.
6. Missiles and More Museum
The Missiles and More Museum is run by the by the Historical Society of Topsail Island, and it provides an interesting, educational look into different eras and how they relate to Topsail Island. The museum boasts many exhibits covering a wide range of topics, including pirates, aircrafts, American Indian culture, and more. The building was constructed in 1946, and the facility was designed to be used to assemble missiles for a top-secret missile operation being conducted on the island.
7. Ohana Paddle Sports
Located just a 10-minute drive north of Topsail Beach in Surf City, Ohana Paddle Sports is your one-stop-shop for the area’s fantastic water sports. Rent or buy equipment such as surfboards, paddleboards, and kayaks. The shop offers standup paddleboard (SUP) lessons, as well as yoga classes. If you prefer to stay on the land, you can rent bicycles for an adventure.
8. Soundside Park
Take a quick trip north to Surf City to enjoy the island’s gorgeous weather at Soundside Park. The park boasts multiple viewing decks and fishing piers where you can listen to the waves crash as the sun sets. There’s a climbing wall if you want to get some exercise, as well as multiple swings, slides, and a big playground for the young ones. There are designated picnic areas that are perfect for family meals. Be sure to check the park’s calendar, as it often hosts public concerts and other performances on the stage.
9. Beach Shop & Grill
Located right on the beach, Beach Shop & Grill is an upscale bistro that offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its fresh-caught local seafood, and most of the rustic dishes are made from scratch using top-quality ingredients. Simply put, the food is fantastic. The restaurant also has an awesome gift shop where you can buy a wide variety of Topsail Island-themed merchandise.
10. Surf City Ocean Pier
Built in 1948, Surf City Ocean Pier is the island’s first fishing pier. It has been destroyed by weather multiple times, but it always gets rebuilt. The pier is 978 feet long and it has a 40-foot octagon at the end. The pier is the perfect fishing spot, featuring two fish cleaning stations, lights for all-night angling, and a fully stocked tackle shop with poles, bait, and everything else you need to catch a whopper. The pier features a covered outdoor eating area, as well as an ice cream shop and a burger joint.
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