What are the beaches like in Topsail Island, NC?

If your idea of a good vacation is spending time at the beach, then you’ll need to check out Topsail Island, NC. This long, 26-mile island is nestled in between Wilmington and Jacksonville, NC, and offers everything you need for a good dose of vitamin-D. Check out our tips below on how to make the most of your time on the coast!

What are the beaches like in Topsail Island, NC?

So, what are the beaches like in Topsail Island NC? Topsail Island, NC beaches are a coastal gem free of crowds, even during busy season! The island consists of three towns: North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach, all of which are free from an abundance of tourists that you’ll find in other North Carolina beach towns.

What is Topsail Island, NC known for?

Its uncrowded beaches! Topsail Island, NC is a lesser-known destination for East Coast beachgoers. Free of overcrowding, it’s easy to find parking right by the beach for you to stake out your spot in the sand from morning to night.

Out of the three towns on the island, Surf City is home to a majority of the restaurants, shops, and grocery stores. You can also find the Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue, a non-profit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of sea turtles in North Carolina, in Surf City.

Is Topsail Island, NC nice?

Topsail Island, NC beaches are the perfect choice for a clean, relaxing beach experience. Catch up on your reading list and dig your feet in the sand, you won’t be disturbed by any other visitors!

Is Topsail Island, NC a part of the Outer Banks?

Topsail Island, NC is not a part of the Outer Banks. It is a barrier island, however, that is part of a chain of barrier islands along the Carolina coastline. These islands are separated from the mainland by a narrow inlet and help protect it from severe storms. They also serve as sanctuaries for coastal wildlife. To visit the Outer Banks, head north closer to the Virginia border.

Can you drive on Topsail Island, NC beaches?

Driving permits are available on Topsail Beach, NC for fishing purposes only. You cannot drive on the beach for recreational use. Before visiting it is important to confirm that permits are being sold that year, as availability changes with the tides.

What airports are close to Topsail Island, NC?

The closest airport to Topsail Island is in Wilmington, NC. For more non-stop flight options look into the Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

• Wilmington International Airport ILM (50 minute drive)
• Raleigh Durham International Airport RDU (2.5 hour drive)

Driving Directions to Topsail Island, NC:

• From Jacksonville, NC (30 minutes)
  • Take US-17 BUS S for 11 miles
  • Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto NC-210 W

• From Wilmington, NC (50 minutes)
  • Take NC-140 E toward Jacksonville for 5 miles
  • Continue onto US-17 M for 23 miles
  • Turn right onto Old Folkstone Rd. for 4 miles
  • Turn right onto NC-210 W for 3 miles

• From Raleigh, NC (2.25 hours)
  • Take I-40 E for 87 miles
  • Take exit 385 for NC-41 toward Wallace
  • Turn left onto NC-41 N for 6 miles
  • Turn onto Deep Bottom Rd. for 6 miles
  • Turn right onto NC-50 S for 25 miles
  • Turn left onto US-17 N for 4 miles
  • Turn right onto Old Folkstone Rd. for 4 miles
  • Turn right onto NC-210 W for 3 miles

Where to Stay in Topsail Island, NC?

There is no shortage of beach house rentals in Topsail Island, NC. Our top options below are sure to make your trip a success!

• Private Oceanfront Getaway
  • Two bedroom, 3 bath home that sleeps 4
  • Unobstructed ocean views
  • Private, secluded beach directly in front of the house
  • Outdoor shower

• Sunset Townhome
  • Two bedroom, two and a half bath home that sleeps 6
  • Private beach access across the street
  • Neighborhood pool (seasonal)

• Oceanfront Duplex
  • Five bedroom, 3 bath home that sleeps 16
  • 3 decks with unobstructed ocean views
  • Large enough to host a family reunion but can be intimate enough for smaller groups

Get away from it all and plan your next beach vacation to Topsail Island, NC. If you enjoyed this article and have some friends or family looking for a beach escape, be sure to share this article with them!