Topsail Island: A Unique Vacation Destination

If you’re looking for a new unique vacation destination, do read on!

Surely, you’ve heard of Topsail Island but may not know much about the area. You might have even driven right past it on your way further south.

Topsail is a barrier island off the coast of North Carolina, roughly equidistant between the barrier islands of the Crystal Coast and the beaches of the Cape Fear region which include Wrightsville, Carolina and Kure beaches. It’s a popular destination for families, thanks to its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and abundance of family-friendly activities.

But what makes Topsail Island unique?

It’s a fantastic vacation destination for a number of reasons. Here are some of the most notable:

Of course, the beaches!

Topsail Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in North Carolina. The island consists of North Topsail Beach, Surf City and Topsail Beach. The sand is soft and white, and the water is clear and blue.

The History

Topsail Island has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century. The island was once home to Native Americans, and it was also used as a hiding place by pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, you can still find remnants of Topsail Island’s history, such as the ruins of Fort Fisher, which was built during the Civil War.

The Wildlife

Topsail Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, birds and deer. You can often see dolphins swimming in the surf, and sea turtles nesting on the beaches. There are also several birdwatching opportunities on the island.

The Marshes

The salt marshes on Topsail Island are home to a variety of plants and animals. You can explore the marshes by kayak, canoe, or on foot.

The Small-Town Atmosphere

This is one of the Islands biggest appeals. There are no big chain hotels or restaurants on the island, and the people are friendly and welcoming.

Treasure Hunting

When searching for cool shells and sharks teeth, it’s common to dig through bits and pieces of crushed shells hoping for a whole or the off chance of finding a tiny shark tooth. Because Topsail Island is located in a fossil-rich area, in this unique vacation destination you are more apt to find whole, beautiful shell and easily spot a shark tooth. The ocean currents and waves have brought these fossils to the surface over time, and they are now easily found on the beaches.

Family-Friendly Activities

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy on Topsail Island. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Going for walks or bike rides: Topsail Island is a great place to get some exercise in the fresh air. There are plenty of walking and biking trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s perfect for your family’s fitness level.
• Playing in the sand: There’s nothing quite like building sandcastles, digging for buried treasure in the sand or tossing a football or passing a volleyball around on the beach. Topsail Island’s beaches are perfect for all sorts of sand-related activities.
• Going fishing: If you’re looking for a more active adventure, you can go fishing on Topsail Island. There are plenty of opportunities to catch fish, including flounder, whiting, and bluefish.
• Visiting the aquarium: The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center is a great place to learn about sea turtles and other marine life. The center offers tours, educational programs, and even opportunities to volunteer.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable and unique vacation destination, Topsail Island is the perfect place for you. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, diverse wildlife, and variety of activities, Topsail Island has something to offer everyone.

 

Topsail Island General FAQ

Where is Topsail Island
Topsail Island is located in Pender and Onslow Counties, approximately halfway between Cape Fear and the Crystal Coast. The island is approximately 26 miles long and 2 miles wide at its widest point. It is accessible by car via the Topsail Island Causeway, which connects the island to mainland North Carolina.

Where to stay on Topsail Island
With us of course! We have 10 vacation rentals in North Topsail and 1 in Surf City. Search oceanfront, pool, hot tub or pet friendly properties here.

Beach Access Information
If you’re vacationing in one of our oceanfront properties, you are surly right near an access point. If you’re off the beach, each location has several easy to find public beach access points. Find out specifics for each area here.

Parking Information
If you are staying at one of our luxury vacation rentals then you are in easy walking distance to the beach. But if you’re just visiting for the day, it’s important to know all the parking details. Click here to read our article on current Topsail Island public parking guidelines.