Your Guide to the Best Parks

Your Guide to the Best Parks Near Surf City, Hampstead, and Topsail Island

The coastal communities of Surf City, Hampstead, and Topsail Island are renowned for their stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle. But beyond the sand and waves, the area boasts a fantastic selection of parks perfect for a family outing, a quiet nature walk, or a day of active fun. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, Timber and Tide has you covered with this comprehensive guide to the best parks within a 10-mile radius of these vibrant coastal towns.

Parks in and Around Surf City

Surf City is the bustling heart of Topsail Island and offers a variety of parks with classic beach town charm.

• Soundside Park

  • Location: 517 Roland Ave, Surf City, NC 28445

  • Amenities: This popular park is a hub of activity with a playground (including a new pirate ship playground!), picnic shelters, restrooms, a boardwalk and fishing pier, and an amphitheater that often hosts events. It also features an ADA-accessible kayak and paddleboard launch and a public boat ramp.

  • Best for: A full day of family fun with stunning sunset views over the Intracoastal Waterway.

• Kenneth D. Batts Family Park

  • Location: 911 S Topsail Dr, Surf City, NC 28445

  • Amenities: A great spot for kids and those looking to stay active, this park offers a playground, a basketball court, a boardwalk, picnic shelters, and restrooms.

  • Best for: A classic park experience with options for both play and relaxation.

• Nelva R. Albury Recreation Area

  • Location: 101 Broadway Ave, Surf City, NC 28445

  • Amenities: This park features a playground and public parking, with the added convenience of being near public restrooms and beach access.

  • Best for: A quick and easy stop for families with young children to play before or after hitting the beach.

• Surf City Community Center & Bark Park

  • Location: 201 Community Center Dr, Surf City, NC 28445

  • Amenities: Home to a community center with various programs, this complex also includes a 9-hole disc golf course and a popular dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs and water stations.

  • Best for: Disc golf enthusiasts and dog owners looking to let their furry friends run free.

• Earl G. & Inez Batts Recreational Complex

  • Location: 380 J.H. Batts Road, Surf City, NC 28445

  • Amenities: This new and developing park features a skatepark, a sand volleyball court, an inclusive playground, a shelter with restrooms, and walking paths.

  • Best for: Skaters, volleyball players, and families looking for a modern and inclusive play space.

Parks in and Around Hampstead

Just a short drive from the island, Hampstead offers a large, well-equipped park that's a favorite among locals.

• Hampstead Kiwanis Park

  • Location: 586 Sloop Point Loop Rd, Hampstead, NC 28443

  • Amenities: This expansive 53-acre park is a sports lover's dream, with lighted fields for baseball, softball, soccer, and football. It also features two playgrounds, a walking trail with fitness stations, picnic shelters, sand volleyball courts, and restrooms.

  • Best for: Sports leagues, community events, and families looking for a wide variety of recreational activities in one place.

Parks in and Around the Topsail Beaches

The towns of Topsail Beach and North Topsail Beach offer their own unique park experiences, from bustling town centers to quiet soundside retreats.

• Topsail Beach Town Center Park

  • Location: 624 S Anderson Blvd, Topsail Beach, NC 28445

  • Amenities: This centrally located park features a playground, a volleyball court, a game court, two picnic shelters, restrooms, and an events field.

  • Best for: A convenient and fun-filled stop for families exploring the southern end of the island.

• North Topsail Beach Town Park

  • Location: 465 New River Inlet Rd, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460

  • Amenities: This park offers a range of amenities, including a kayak launch, a soundside observation deck and pier, a nature trail, a tot lot, volleyball and basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic shelters, and grills.

  • Best for: A quieter park experience with a focus on nature and water activities on the north end of the island.

• Stump Sound Park (in nearby Sneads Ferry)

  • Location: 1771 NC-172, Sneads Ferry, NC 28460

  • Amenities: While a bit further afield, this 52-acre park is worth the drive. It features lighted baseball/softball fields, tennis courts, soccer/football fields, a playground, a 9-hole disc golf course, a nature trail, a fitness trail, picnic shelters, and restrooms.

  • Best for: A day trip for those looking for a large park with a wide array of sports facilities and nature trails.

Whether you're looking to entertain the kids, get in a workout, or simply enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery, the parks near Surf City, Hampstead, and Topsail Island offer something for everyone. So next time you're in the area, be sure to step off the sand and explore these wonderful green spaces!