First Beach Access

Near North Topsail Beach, there are several excellent dining options that cater to a variety of tastes. The Seaview Pier Restaurant is a no-frills spot offering comfort food, seafood, and ice cream, with a beautiful ocean view. Another popular choice is Splash by the Sea, known for its fast service, great beer selection, and cozy atmosphere. For a more casual experience, Aarrr Pirate Bar & Grill provides a fun, pirate-themed dining experience with a focus on comfort food and sports. Additionally, Beach Bum's Pizza Bar & Grill offers a relaxed, breezy atmosphere with daily food and drink specials.

For accommodations near North Topsail Beach, visitors have a range of options. The Hampton Inn Sneads Ferry North Topsail Beach offers a casual stay with free hot breakfast and a seasonal outdoor pool. Another choice is the Seaview Fishing Pier and Motel, which provides simple beachfront rooms and a fishing pier. For a more budget-friendly option, the Loggerhead Inn & Suites in nearby Surf City offers basic rooms with microwaves and a pool. The Blue Water Inn & Suites is another option, featuring a relaxed atmosphere and a seasonal pool.

North Topsail Beach offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. Onslow County maintains three free beach access points with restrooms, showers, and parking. These facilities are open from 8 AM to 8 PM and provide a convenient entry to the beach. Additionally, the town has two parks: Rodney Knowles Park and Richard C. Peters Park, both offering picnic areas, sound-side piers, and launch sites for canoes and kayaks. The larger park also features a playground and sports courts, making it a great spot for families.

North Topsail Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include swimming, surfing, fishing, and kayaking. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, shell hunting, or simply enjoying the ocean views. For those interested in water sports, there are launch areas for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. The town also offers a multipurpose path ideal for biking or jogging. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching or spotting dolphins and sea turtles.

North Topsail Beach offers several accessibility options to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the area. The beach access points maintained by Onslow County have ramps and walkways to the ocean, making it easier for people with mobility issues to access the beach. Additionally, many of the local restaurants and hotels provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, restrooms, and seating areas. This includes places like the Seaview Pier Restaurant and Splash by the Sea, which offer accessible dining experiences.

Parking at North Topsail Beach is well-managed, with three free beach access points maintained by Onslow County. These areas provide restrooms, showers, and ample parking spaces. The parking lots are open from 8 AM to 8 PM, making it convenient for day visitors. However, during peak summer months, it's advisable to arrive early as the lots can fill up quickly. Additionally, some private parking options require payment, but the county-run accesses are free and easily accessible.

North Topsail Beach has a rich history and some fascinating fun facts. The island was used during World War II for military operations, contributing to the development of the ramjet engine. It is also rumored that pirates like Blackbeard hid treasures in the area. The Ocean City community, part of North Topsail Beach, was the first place in North Carolina where African Americans could own coastal property, making it a significant historical site. The annual Ocean City Jazz Festival celebrates this heritage with music and culture.

North Topsail Beach is surrounded by several attractions that add to its charm. The nearby town of Surf City offers a variety of shops and restaurants, while Topsail Beach at the southern end of the island is known for its beautiful landscapes and historic sites like the Missiles and More Museum. Visitors can also explore the Ocean City community, which hosts an annual Jazz Festival and is recognized for its historical significance as a site where African Americans could purchase coastal property during segregation.