From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Sometimes, the best vacations are those where you can relax, recharge, and just get away. You don’t need a fast-paced environment. Rather, you need to go somewhere with a laid-back lifestyle and plenty of options to help you create unforgettable memories. Topsail Island, North Carolina is that place. With gorgeous views, a beautiful beach to explore, and incredible accommodations, Topsail Island is truly the picturesque summer getaway in North Carolina that you deserve.
Topsail Island is located off the coast of southeastern North Carolina and is a gorgeous 26-mile island.
This island has quite the history and several stories and myths have circulated over the years, explaining how the island and its name came to be. One such story is that the island was named Topsail because pirates would hide their ships behind the island with the topsails still visible.
This island is home to three separate towns: Surf City, Topsail Beach, and North Topsail Beach. Each small town is charming yet has its own character and is worthy of being explored.
The largest of the three small towns is Surf City. This charming community sits right in the center of the island and provides multiple beach access points so you can spend a day in the sun, sand, and water.
There are 39 public beach access points all around Surf City, with several offering full restroom and shower facilities. With soft sand, gorgeous views, and amazing sunrises and sunsets, you’ll have a hard time leaving this area of the island.
Topsail Beach is located at the southern end of Topsail Island and is the smallest of the three towns with approximately 500 year-round residents. This is one area of the island where you can enjoy a little quiet and adventure.
While there are several things to do in Topsail Beach, one local attraction that is not only interesting but also educational is the Missiles and More Museum.
This museum not only teaches about the history of Topsail Island but also about the Women Airforce Service Pilots, (known as WASP), who were trained to fly military aircraft and served in World War II.
North Topsail Beach is located at the northern part of the island. This area was incorporated in 1990 and was formerly known as West Onslow Beach and North Topsail Shores.
The beaches at North Topsail Beach are absolutely mesmerizing and picturesque. During your visit, you can always spend your day lounging on the soft sand. But, we recommend you spend some time exploring this area on the bike and pedestrian path that takes you from the Town Hall parking lot to North Topsail Beach Park.
No matter what you do, the beauty of this area will make you fall in love with Topsail Island.
With so much to do and see on Topsail Island, you won’t want to rush your visit. Vacations On Topsail offers dozens of delightful accommodations for the perfect summer getaway with your entire family or just your significant other.
For example, you can bring your entire family along to this ocean-view vacation rental in North Carolina. It sleeps 14 guests and with the wide and open layout, you’ll never feel cramped and crowded. Plus, the view is amazing!
If you are looking for something a little smaller, you’ll have options like the 411-B Villa Capriana vacation rental, which is located on North Topsail Beach. This fourth-floor condo features two bedrooms and offers some of the best views around.
Have you ever visited this North Carolina island? What did you do during your visit? Where did you stay during your getaway? Share your experience with us and your fellow travelers in the comments!