Your Ultimate Guide to a Surf City & Topsail Island Summer
If you’re looking for a summer getaway that blends pristine coastlines with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, you’ve found it on Topsail Island. Whether you are staying right in the heart of Surf City, up in quiet North Topsail, or down at historic Topsail Beach, this 26-mile barrier island has something for everyone.
From catching waves to catching sunsets, here is your ultimate guide to the best summer activities on Topsail Island!
1. Hit the Beach (and Hunt for Treasure!)
You can’t visit Topsail Island without spending plenty of time on the sand. The beaches here are famous for being less crowded than other East Coast destinations, offering plenty of space to spread out, build sandcastles, and relax.
Pro Tip: Topsail is an incredible spot for beachcombing. Head out during low tide (especially after a summer storm) to hunt for unique seashells and even prehistoric shark teeth! The southern end of Topsail Beach and the areas near the inlets tend to be the most fruitful for treasure hunters.
2. Walk the Historic Fishing Piers
Whether you are an avid angler or just looking for a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise, Topsail’s fishing piers are a must-visit.
Surf City Ocean Pier: The island's very first ocean pier, originally built in 1948. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching, grabbing an ice cream cone, and soaking in panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Jolly Roger Pier: Located down in Topsail Beach, this 850-foot pier has long been a beloved landmark and a prime spot for catching king mackerel in the summer.
3. Visit the "Turtle Hospital"
One of the most heartwarming and popular family activities on the island is a visit to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City.
Topsail Island is a major nesting ground for endangered loggerhead sea turtles (they nest from mid-May to mid-August). The dedicated volunteers at the center rescue, rehabilitate, and eventually release sick and injured sea turtles back into the wild. Guided tours are available throughout the summer—it's an incredibly educational and moving experience for all ages.
4. Get Out on the Water
If you want a little more adrenaline than lounging on the sand, Topsail Island’s waterways are calling.
Surfing & Paddleboarding: Rent a surfboard, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard from a local outfitter (like 50 South Surf Shop or Herring's Outdoor Sports). The gentle waves are great for beginners, while the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway are perfect for paddleboarding.
Tiki Tours & Boat Charters: Want to relax while someone else does the navigating? Book a pontoon cruise or a sunset Tiki Tour to explore the hidden nooks of Topsail Sound. Keep an eye out for dolphins!
5. Catch a Sunset at Soundside Park
Located right next to the Surf City swing bridge, Soundside Park is arguably the best place on the island to watch the sun go down.
The park features sprawling boardwalks that stretch out over the marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway, covered picnic pavilions, and a massive pirate ship-themed playground that kids will love. During the summer, the park frequently hosts free outdoor concerts and movie nights, making it a perfect evening gathering spot for the whole family.
6. Dive into Local History
Need a break from the sun? Head down to the Missiles and More Museum in Topsail Beach. Many visitors don't realize that Topsail Island has a fascinating secret history. During the 1940s, the island was the testing site for a secret U.S. Navy program called Operation Bumblebee—which paved the way for modern supersonic flight. You can learn all about the missile program, local pirate lore, and the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) of WWII.
7. Eat, Shop, and Unwind
After a long day in the sun, you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Surf City is the bustling heart of the island, offering fantastic local dining and shopping.
Eats: Grab some incredibly fresh, locally caught shrimp, or enjoy fish tacos and a laid-back vibe at places like Shaka Taco.
Treats: Grab homemade donuts at The Daily Grind, or hit one of the local ice cream parlors.
Shopping: Take a stroll through local boutiques like Bumblebee Market or the Topsail Island Trading Company to pick up unique coastal gifts, local art, and souvenirs.
Topsail Island is all about slowing down and making memories. Whether you are catching your first wave, reeling in a fish off the pier, or just watching the sunset with your family, you're on "island time" now!