The gentle waves, the warm sun, and the pristine white sand make Topsail Island a paradise. It’s a 26-mile barrier island along Eastern North Carolina’s coast. This place offers many outdoor adventures for families. Enjoy peaceful walks, exciting water sports, or connect with nature.
Let the salty breeze in your hair while fishing, and watching the sunset. Topsail Island slows down time, letting you enjoy the simple joys of nature.
Key Takeaways
- Topsail Island has many outdoor activities, like beach walks, fishing, boat tours, and finding shark teeth.
- There are different parking options, paid and free, for various budgets and preferences.
- The island hosts events like the Free Summer Movies in the Park and the Topsail Island Holiday Flotilla.
- The piers, like the Surf City Pier and SeaView Fishing Pier, are great for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying the views.
- Soundside Park in Surf City has a playground, fishing spots, and places to launch boats.
Topsail Island is a gem with its beautiful beaches, nature, and outdoor adventures. We’ll look at the many activities and attractions it offers. It’s perfect for nature lovers and beach fans.
Where is Topsail Island?
Topsail Island’s Location and Nearby Areas
Topsail Island is a beautiful island along Eastern North Carolina’s coast. Pender and Onslow counties share it. The island stretches for 26 miles and is comprised of three towns North Topsail Beach, Surf City and Topsail Beach. It’s near Wilmington and Jacksonville, making it easy for visitors to get to.
Although folklore has it that the island was named Topsail (pronounced Tops’l) because pirate ships hid behind the island with their topsails visible from the sea, the name came from New Topsail Inlet. This inlet’s name can be found on early navigational charts with the other Topsail Inlet located in Beaufort, N.C. Soon after J.G. Anderson developed the southernmost end of the island and named it New Topsail Beach, the island has been called Topsail.
You can get to the island over the Surf City Bridge or the Trooper Larry Walton Memorial Bridge. These bridges connect to places like Burgaw, Hampstead, and Sneads Ferry. Topsail Island is known for its coastal beauty and outdoor activities.
“Topsail Island is a hidden gem along the North Carolina coast, offering a peaceful and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
Looking for a quiet beach, historical sites, or a lively coastal town? Topsail Island has it all. Dive into the natural beauty and adventures this island offers.
Beach Access and Parking
Topsail Island has many public beach access points. There are 37 in North Topsail Beach, 39 in Surf City, and 20 in Topsail Beach. Plus, there are 9 soundside access points. If you’re staying near the beach, walking to these spots is easy.
Recently, paid parking has started in some areas of Topsail. Parking is paid from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, all year. If you park in the wrong spot, you’ll get a ticket and have to pay a fine. The fines are $25 for the same day, $50 for standard, and $25 more if you don’t pay within 30 days.
Annual parking permits for one car cost $150, and $250 for two cars together in North Topsail Beach. Standard parking costs $5 an hour, $25 a day, $100 a week, and $150 a year for one car. Residents and property owners can get two cars registered for free with the right documents.
In Surf City, paid parking is available from March 1 to October 31. It costs $5 near the beach and $3 in other lots. The South End Parking lot in Topsail Beach charges $5 an hour or $25 a day during the same period.
Remember, visitors to Topsail must follow parking rules and use paid parking to avoid fines.
| Location | Paid Parking | Hourly Rate | Daily Rate | Weekly Rate | Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Topsail Beach | Yes | $5 | $25 | $100 | $150 (1 vehicle), $250 (2 vehicles) |
| Surf City | Yes (March 1 – October 31) | $5 (closest to beach), $3 (outlying lots) | $25 | $100 | $250 |
| Topsail Beach | Yes (South End Parking Lot, March 1 – October 31) | $5 (up to 4 hours) | $25 | N/A | N/A |
Topsail Island also has free beach access points. Onslow County offers free parking at three spots, with over 100 spaces and a snack stand. These spots are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.
Plan your parking and beach visit well to have a great time at Topsail.
Explore the Island’s Piers
Topsail Island is a coastal gem in North Carolina. It has three iconic piers that offer beautiful views, fishing, and a peek into the island’s history. The Surf City Pier, SeaView Fishing Pier, and Jolly Roger Inn & Pier each give visitors a special experience. They let you dive into the coastal charm of Topsail Beach.
Surf City Pier, SeaView Fishing Pier, and Jolly Roger Inn & Pier
The Surf City Pier stretches 937 feet over the Atlantic Ocean. It has a 40-foot wide area perfect for sightseeing and fishing. Near Sneads Ferry, the SeaView Fishing Pier is over 1,000 feet long. It’s great for anglers and nature lovers. The Jolly Roger Inn & Pier in Topsail Beach is 850 feet long. It offers amazing sunset views and a cozy atmosphere.
These piers are easy on the wallet, with tickets starting at $1-$2 per person. Whether you want a peaceful walk, a day of fishing, or just to enjoy the coast, Topsail Island’s piers are perfect for all ages.
“The piers are the heart and soul of Topsail Island, offering a unique blend of recreation, history, and stunning natural beauty.”
Outdoor Activities in Topsail Island
Topsail is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Its 26-mile coastline is perfect for beachcombing, swimming, surfing, and building sandcastles. You can find many rental properties, like Carolina Retreats, Saltwater Suites, and The Loggerhead Inn.
The calm waters are great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. There are several places to rent equipment. You can choose between 2-hour or weekly rentals. Many visitors enjoy water sports in the summer months.
At Soundside Park, you can walk on the boardwalks and trails. You might see local wildlife and enjoy beautiful views. Kenneth D. Batts Family Park has a nice boardwalk, picnic spots, restrooms, and a playground. The southern part of the island is great for finding shark teeth. Many people love searching for treasures on the beach.
| Outdoor Activity | Availability |
|---|---|
| Beachcombing | Significant due to variety of treasures found |
| Swimming | Ample opportunities along the 26-mile coastline |
| Surfing | Popular among visitors |
| Kayaking and Paddleboarding | Calm intracoastal waterway and rental companies available |
| Boating | Intracoastal waterway and rental companies available |
| Shark Tooth Hunting | Southern end of the island is a prime location |
| Wildlife Viewing | Soundside Park’s boardwalks and trails offer opportunities |
Topsail Island has surf shops and places to rent gear for kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, scuba diving, and surfing. Golf lovers can check out the beautiful courses around Topsail Beach for all skill levels.
At night, Topsail Beach comes alive with beach bars, restaurants, DJs, dancing, karaoke, sports bars, live music, and more. Fishing is big here, with shops, piers, and charters for all anglers.
For families, there’s a lot to do, like visiting parks, playing mini golf, exploring museums, seeing a sea turtle hospital, going to an arcade, and skating.
“Topsail is a hidden gem on the North Carolina coast, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and small-town charm.” – Local resident
Topsail has something for everyone, from relaxing beach days to exciting water sports and connecting with nature. It’s a coastal gem that welcomes visitors of all ages and interests.
Boating and Water Adventures
Topsail Island is a paradise for those who love the water. It offers boat rentals and guided tours. You can explore the intracoastal waterway and enjoy the coastal beauty.
Boat Rentals, Tours, and Intracoastal Waterway Exploration
Places like Surf City Boat Rentals and Aquaholics Boat Rentals have many boats for rent. You can choose from pontoon boats, kayaks, and more to explore the intracoastal waterway. For a guided tour, try A&B Saltwater Adventures or Tiki Tours. They show you the area’s beauty and wildlife. The waterway is calm, perfect for relaxing, fishing, or watching the sunset.
If you want excitement, Making Waves Jetski Rentals has jet skis for rent. You can go on your own or join a dolphin tour. Jet skis can carry up to three people, but there are age limits.
For more water fun, try surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing. Surf City Surf School teaches surfing, and Topsail Surf and Cycle offers rentals and tours. They even have pedal kayaks.
Fishing is also a big draw. Reel Cranky Charters has trips for beginners. Topsail Fishing Company offers deep-sea fishing for all levels.
“Topsail Island’s calm intracoastal waterway is the perfect setting for leisurely paddling, fishing, and enjoying breathtaking sunset views.”
No matter what you’re looking for, Topsail Island has it. Whether you want a calm day or an exciting adventure, there’s something for everyone.
Soundside Park and Nature Trails
Soundside Park is a favorite spot in Surf City for both locals and visitors. It has a big playground, fishing spots, boat ramps, and a long boardwalk. This boardwalk leads right to the waterway. You can see the Surf City Bridge and the marshes, where many birds, fish, and crabs live.
Topsail Island also has many nature trails and boardwalks. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail stretches 1,200 miles, touching about 8 miles of beach between Surf City and North Topsail Beach. These trails are great for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.
The North Topsail Beach Town Park is perfect for those who love the outdoors. It has sports courts, trails, and a place to launch kayaks into the Stump Sound. With so many nature-based activities, Topsail Beach is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
“Topsail Island is a hidden gem on the North Carolina coast, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure.”
Best Local Topsail Attractions
Family-friendly fun abounds on Topsail Island all year long. Here are a few of our favorite things to do while you’re here. Be sure to check with each Topsail attraction for their seasonal availability and hours of operation.
- Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center
- Missiles and More Museum
- Topsail Beach Skating Rink
- Shipwreck Point Miniature Golf
- Patio Playground
- Soundside Park
- Seaview Pier
- Surf City Ocean Pier
- Jolly Roger Pier
Shark Tooth Hunting
Searching for fossilized shark teeth is a top activity in Topsail Beach. The island is famous for its shark teeth, some over millions of years old. Visitors can find these ancient teeth after a storm, especially at the southern end near the Jolly Roger Inn & Pier.
Tips and Techniques for Finding Fossil Shark Teeth
With a sharp eye and patience, you can find these fossils and add them to your collection. The best time is during low tide when more of the beach is exposed. Topsail Island is also known for its beautiful shells, making the hunt even more exciting.
Shark teeth are the main treasure hunters seek. The island is home to many shells, like Scotch Bonnets and Conchs. You can also find sea glass in white, green, and brown on the beaches.
The Bull Shark, Tiger Shark, and Sand Shark are common near Topsail Island. These sharks lose many teeth, so there are lots to find.
Shark tooth hunting and shell collecting are fun, free, and great for families. After storms, there are more shells and fossils to find, making it a perfect time to search.
“The thrill of discovering a well-preserved shark tooth or a unique shell is what keeps me coming back to Topsail Beach time and time again. It’s like uncovering a piece of history with every step.”
Whether you’re an expert or new to beach combing, Topsail Island has plenty to offer. So, bring your bucket and start your shark tooth hunting adventure!
Annual Events and Festivals
Topsail Beach is a lively coastal town that celebrates its heritage and beauty with many events and festivals. These celebrations let visitors dive into the local culture and traditions.
The summer brings the Free Sounds of Summer Concert Series, where bands play at Soundside Park every Saturday. Families can also catch free summer movies in the park from June to August on Fridays.
In the fall, the island hosts the Autumn With Topsail festival, celebrating the season’s change. This event in mid-October features live music, local crafts, and tasty local food.
The holiday season has the Topsail Island Holiday Flotilla, a parade of decorated boats. The Topsail Wine and Food Event in September lets you taste the coast’s flavors, with local chefs and winemakers on hand.
Throughout the year, Topsail Beach has events like the Surf City Kid’s Fishing Tournament in June and the NC Spot Festival in November. These festivals focus on the island’s marine life and fishing heritage.
Looking for live shows, food, or local culture? Topsail Beach’s events and festivals have something for all.
(Event dates are accurate at the time of this blog post but are subject to change. It’s always best to confirm on the event site by following the links provided.)
January 1: Dolphin Dip in Surf City
March: Surf City Business Expo
April: Easter Egg Hunt at Soundside Park in Surf City
July 3: Independence Day Fireworks & Celebration in Surf City
July: Ocean City Jazz Festival North Topsail Beach
August: Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival
September: Topsail Island Jeep Week
October: Autumn with Topsail
November: NC Spot Festival in Hampstead
November: Surf City Christmas Tree Lighting
November: Topsail Beach Christmas Tree Lighting
Conclusion
Topsail is a captivating coastal spot with lots of outdoor fun for visitors. It has beautiful beaches, calm waters, and diverse wildlife, making it perfect for everyone. Whether you want a chill beach vacation or an exciting outdoor adventure, Topsail is ideal for enjoying nature and small-town charm.
The town is known for its friendly people, many attractions, and endless exploration chances. You can fish, boat, and enjoy water sports, or hike, see wildlife, and go to festivals. This lively place has a lot of outdoor activities north carolina for all kinds of interests. If you’re planning a topsail beach vacation or looking for things to do near wilmington nc, you’ll love it here.
So, bring your bags, apply sunscreen, and get ready for the natural beauty, adventures, and warm welcome of Topsail Island. With its stunning beaches, many outdoor activities, and small-town feel, this island town will impress you and make you want to come back.
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FAQ
What are the outdoor activities available in Topsail?
Topsail Beach offers many outdoor activities. You can enjoy beachcombing, swimming, surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There’s also boating, hiking nature trails, and hunting for shark teeth.
Where is Topsail located?
Topsail Beach is a 26-mile long barrier island in Eastern North Carolina. It’s shared by Pender and Onslow counties. It’s between North Topsail Beach and Surf City.
How do I access the beaches in Topsail?
You can access the beaches through 37 spots in North Topsail Beach, 39 in Surf City, and 20 in Topsail Beach. There are also 9 soundside access points. Some areas have paid parking in the peak season.
What are the notable piers in Topsail?
Topsail Island has three famous piers. The Surf City Pier, the SeaView Fishing Pier in Sneads Ferry, and the Jolly Roger Inn & Pier in Topsail Beach. These piers offer beautiful views, fishing, and easy access to the coast.
What kind of water-based activities can I enjoy in Topsail?
You can rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the calm waters. Or book guided tours to see the natural beauty and wildlife from the water.
What is Soundside Park?
Soundside Park in Surf City is a favorite spot. It has a big playground, fishing spots, boat ramps, and a long boardwalk. It gives easy access to the water and lets you see local wildlife.
Can I find shark teeth in Topsail?
Yes, Topsail is full of fossilized shark teeth. The southern end is a great place for finding them. After a storm, the sand is full of shark teeth in different sizes and shapes.
What annual events and festivals take place in Topsail?
Topsail has many events and festivals all year. You can enjoy free summer movies, concerts, the Topsail Wine and Food Event, Autumn with Topsail, and the Holiday Flotilla.