Topsail Island is one of the places that never leaves you. If you've ever visited our lovely beaches and welcoming communities you know there is something special about Topsail Island. One of the best things about visiting our area is the variety of unique things to do and see. This week we have five unique activities you can enjoy during your Topsail Island beach vacation. Don't forget that late summer and early fall are some of the best times of the year to visit the North Carolina coast. 

Take a day trip to Wilmington

Vacationing on Topsail Island not only allows you access to our beautiful island, you will be close to the best regional attractions as well. Take a day trip to Wilmington and check out the U.S.S. North Carolina, which is a WWII era Battleship. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the local shops and dining. You're only minutes from your beach house. So whether you want to explore on a rainy day or just take advantage of our awesome location, everything is at your fingertips from Topsail Island.  

Go crabbing

During the crabbing season you will find folks of all ages enjoying one of those uniquely North Carolina traditions...crabbing. Now, don't worry about equipment or spending a lot of money. For the cost of a piece of string and a few chicken bones you too can be crabbing in no time. If you rent one of our canal homes you can even crab from your deck, bulkhead or dock. Now - that is fun. Need help learning more about crabbing on Topsail Island? Don't worry, our local bait and tackle shops have everything you need to get started. As a bonus, you don't need to shop for dinner! Crab legs anyone?

Explore the Surf City Pier

The Surf City Pier is an iconic part of Topsail Island. For generations, families, fisherman and friends have gathered, strolled and fished from the pier. It is just one of those places that everyone should visit. Whether you just want to take a walk at night under the lights, or sit back and watch the waves roll in while tales of the "one that got away" fill the air, there is just something special about the pier. 

The Surf City Pier was originally built in 1948. It has been owned and operated by the Lore family since 1973. Though it has weathered many storms (some better than others), Hurricane Fran destroyed it in 1996. It was totally rebuilt and reopened in August of 1997, looking much like it does today including a few additions. The Surf City Pier has a bait shop, fully stocked tackle shop, an eclectic collection of souvenirs and some of the best burgers in the area.

Learn about our history

Topsail Island has an interesting history. From the time when Native Americans lived in the local area to the time when the United States created a secret missile program, there is a lot about Topsail Island that most visitors never know about. This year is the perfect time to discover a bit more about your favorite beach destination.  

Check out the Missiles and More Museum to find out about the secret missile program called Operation Bumblebee. This secret missile program led to the development of many of the technologies used in modern jets, missiles and more. If you look closely as you travel around the island you'll still see the "towers" that were used during the testing of these programs. 

The museum also discusses the all-volunteer, all-woman unit of pilots known as WASP (Women's Airforce Service Pilots). This group of intrepid women helped fill the need for more pilots during WWII. The women of the WASP units were the first women to fly and operate military aircraft. WASP training occurred at nearby Camp Davis. 

Discover our sea turtles

In the heart of Topsail Island you'll find Surf City. Surf City is a wonderful place to spend the day, and perhaps one of the coolest things to do in Surf City is to visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital. 

Many people are surprised to learn that every year hundreds of Sea Turtles return to Topsail Island to nest and lay their eggs. This has been happening for thousands of years. People all over the local area volunteer to help monitor and protect the majestic creatures. The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital helps sea turtles that have been injured or otherwise need help. The hospital gives tours, has live wells and all sorts of educational exhibits that are sure to be a hit with the kids. 

Have you booked your next Topsail Island beach vacation? Whether you want to plan a late summer or early fall trip, or are ready to plan your next 2021 beach vacation, we have a great staff of reservationist who can help answer all of your questions. Of course, you can also click the button below to see all of our wonderful vacation homes and book on our secure and easy to use website. 

800-497-5463