North Topsail Beach North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near North Topsail Beach, North Carolina.
1. Topsail Island
COASTAL ISLAND PARADISE
Topsail Island is a beautiful coastal destination offering visitors miles of pristine beaches and ocean views. The island features uncrowded beaches where families can have fun, couples can search for seashells along the shoreline, and fishermen can try their luck catching Spot or Mullet. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including swimming, surfing, and beachcombing while experiencing the island's unique charm.
2. Missiles & More Museum
ISLAND MILITARY HISTORY
The Missiles & More Museum showcases Topsail Island's fascinating WWII history and military significance. Visitors can learn about Operation Bumblebee, a secret missile testing program that once operated on the island. The museum offers exhibits that detail the island's rich history from pirates to the present day.
3. Surf City Pier
ICONIC FISHING SPOT
Surf City Pier is a beloved landmark extending into the Atlantic Ocean offering panoramic coastal views. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines for various species while enjoying the ocean breeze. The pier also provides an excellent vantage point for watching sunrises and spotting marine wildlife.
4. Soundside Park
WATERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Soundside Park offers visitors a peaceful setting on the Intracoastal Waterway side of the island. The park features a playground, picnic facilities, and a fishing pier where families can enjoy quality time together. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful sunset views across the sound waters.
5. Tuck's Water Shuttle
ISLAND FERRY SERVICE
Tuck's Water Shuttle provides transportation services to explore the waterways around Topsail Island. Visitors can take scenic boat rides to nearby uninhabited islands or enjoy sunset cruises along the coast. The shuttle offers a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty from the water.
6. Topsail Aquarium
MARINE LIFE DISCOVERY
Topsail Aquarium invites visitors to discover the diverse marine life found in the waters surrounding the island. The facility houses various aquatic species native to North Carolina's coastal waters. Visitors can learn about marine conservation while observing sea creatures in thoughtfully designed exhibits.
7. Seaview Pier
ANGLER'S PARADISE DESTINATION
Seaview Pier is a landmark fishing destination extending out over the Atlantic Ocean's deeper waters. Anglers can fish year-round thanks to the unique combination of warmer Gulf Stream waters meeting cooler inshore currents. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier for spectacular ocean views and potential wildlife sightings.
8. Jolly Roger Fishing Pier
HISTORIC FISHING SPOT
The Jolly Roger Fishing Pier showcases Topsail Beach's origins as a small coastal fishing town. King mackerel fishermen demonstrate their skills at the end of the pier, while spot fishermen stand shoulder to shoulder during fall fishing season. The pier offers fishing equipment rentals and a small shop with supplies for visitors wanting to experience this traditional island activity.
9. Rodney Knowles Park
SOUNDSIDE OBSERVATION AREA
Rodney Knowles Park on Island Drive features a sound side observation deck with scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful picnic area while watching boats navigate the waterway. The park provides a quiet alternative to the beach with opportunities for bird watching and spectacular sunset viewing.
10. Richard C. Peters Park
COASTAL RECREATION SPACE
Richard C. Peters Park on New River Inlet Road offers visitors beautiful coastal views and recreational opportunities. The park provides convenient beach access with amenities for day visitors. Nature lovers can appreciate the park's location near the dynamic inlet where river meets sea.
11. Topsail Island Skating Rink
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Topsail Island Skating Rink offers a fun alternative activity for visitors looking to take a break from the beach. Families and friends can enjoy skating a few laps around the classic rink in a nostalgic setting. The skating rink has been a beloved island attraction for generations of visitors seeking indoor entertainment.
12. Pirates Turf
MINI-GOLF ADVENTURE
Pirates Turf mini-golf course provides a pirate-themed putting adventure for visitors of all ages. The course design pays homage to the island's pirate history, including legends of Blackbeard hiding treasures between the island and mainland. Families can enjoy a round of putt-putt golf as a relaxing evening activity after a day at the beach.
13. Serenity Point
SCENIC WATERWAY LOOKOUT
Serenity Point offers visitors fantastic views of the sound and Intracoastal Waterway in a peaceful setting. The lookout point lives up to its name, providing a tranquil space for reflection and nature appreciation. Visitors can watch boats passing through the waterway while enjoying the coastal breeze and natural beauty.
14. Queen Jean Headboat
OFFSHORE FISHING ADVENTURES
The Queen Jean Headboat offers fishing enthusiasts the opportunity to experience offshore fishing in the Gulf Stream waters. Visitors can make reservations for guided fishing trips or enjoy scenic sunset cruises along the coastline. The experienced crew provides equipment and expertise to help even novice anglers have a successful day on the water.
15. 4x4 Beach Driving Area
OFF-ROAD BEACH ACCESS
North Topsail Beach offers a 4x4 permissible driving area located at the north end of the island off River Road. Visitors must download the SurfCAST by Otto smartphone app to pay for a parking permit pass before accessing this unique beach experience. The area allows adventure seekers to drive directly on the beach to reach more secluded fishing and recreation spots.