Topsail Beach, NC, is where the coast's natural beauty merges with a laid-back, adventurous lifestyle. It is a community filled with opportunities to enjoy life to the fullest. Whether you're paddling through calm waters, indulging in local seafood, or spending the day exploring quirky shops, Topsail Beach feels like a permanent vacation. With so many activities to explore, it's no wonder more people are looking into homes for sale in Topsail Beach, NC, to make this coastal paradise their permanent address.
Beach Shop & Grill
701 S Anderson Blvd, Topsail Beach
For a taste of Southern Coastal cuisine, the Beach Shop & Grill offers a dining experience that captures the region's flavors in every bite. This casual fine dining gem, open seasonally, specializes in Lowcountry-inspired seafood and bistro fare, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients from small farms and purveyors. The menu changes regularly, showcasing the chef's dedication to using only the finest organic ingredients, ensuring every dish is crafted with care and creativity.
Their award-winning wine program and craft cocktails perfectly complement the innovative dishes, creating a well-rounded, memorable dining experience. Guests can enjoy the full menu indoors in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere or relax on the outdoor patio, where dogs are always welcome. And if you're a fan of live music, check the venue's social media to stay up to date with their event schedule.
Missiles and More Museum
720 Channel Blvd, Topsail Beach
The Missiles and More Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of Topsail Beach. It all began with dedicated citizens determined to preserve the historic Assembly Building. Initially built in 1946, the building played a crucial role in a top-secret missile operation, where the government assembled missiles during "Operation Bumblebee" on Topsail Island. Thanks to the community's efforts, the museum opened in 1995, allowing visitors to explore this unique chapter of local history.
The museum features exhibits covering everything from the island's natural history to its military and cultural significance. Highlights include displays about the barrier islands, the history of Camp Davis, and the intriguing story of Ocean City, NC. Visitors can also learn about the Osprey Aircraft and the daring WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) who served during World War II. For those interested in more adventurous tales, there are exhibits about pirates and the legendary Runners and Raiders who once roamed the area.
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center
302 Tortuga Ln, Surf City
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center is dedicated to protecting and preserving marine turtles in their habitats. The organization is committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick and injured sea turtles while educating the public about these endangered creatures' challenges. The center is a valuable learning hub for biology students, wildlife conservation, and veterinary medicine students worldwide, offering hands-on experience in marine wildlife care.
Visitors are greeted by the center's beautiful "Oceans of Memories" mural. The journey continues through the great hall, where exhibits offer insight into the lives of sea turtles and the ongoing conservation efforts. One of the most moving stops is at Sea Turtle Sick Bay, where new patients are given the time and care they need to begin their recovery journey. While it's difficult to see the effects of injury and illness on these gentle creatures, there's hope found in the therapy pool, where smaller turtles joyfully swim as they regain their strength. At the observation ramp in Sea Turtle Bay, visitors can observe turtles that are well on their way to being released back into the wild, just waiting for the final approval from the center's veterinarian.
XIT Rooms - Escape Game Room & Family Amusement Center
418 N New River Dr, Surf City
For an unforgettable adventure for friends, families, or even co-workers, XIT Rooms offers a game experience like no other. You don't need special skills to enjoy the thrill — just a sense of fun and teamwork as you try to solve puzzles and escape within the time limit. Whether you're looking for a unique way to bond with your group or want to challenge your problem-solving abilities, XIT Rooms has something for everyone.
Their escape rooms are designed to immerse participants in intense, heart-pounding scenarios. "The Zombie Experiment" challenges you to find the cure for a zombie outbreak within an hour, racing against time before everything self-destructs. For those who love a good eerie mystery, "Hexed" places you in a stormy, sinister cabin in the woods, where you must escape with your life before time runs out.
XIT Rooms also offers take-home games, like "Operation Mindfall," where you become a secret agent for an international intelligence organization, and "Magic Portal," where you must safeguard magic portals connecting parallel worlds. The "Blackout" game pits you against a hacker-induced citywide blackout, and it's up to your group to restore order. XIT Rooms is a fantastic spot to test your wits and teamwork and have fun.
Ecological Marine Adventures
106 N Topsail Dr, Surf City
Ecological Marine Adventures (EMA) offers a fun and educational way for kids and adults to dive into the wonders of marine science. With a clear mission focused on conservation education, this small but dynamic marine science center provides hands-on learning experiences that bring the ocean's mysteries to life. From field exploration and data collection to working with touch tanks and aquariums, EMA ensures that learning about the sea is interactive and exciting.
One of the highlights of EMA is the chance to meet the resident marine life up close. Kids can start their adventure by greeting Ms. Shell, a charming diamondback terrapin, before exploring touch tanks filled with ocean creatures like horseshoe crabs and bamboo sharks. The excitement continues in the aquarium, where kids can interact with various sea friends while learning about the importance of marine conservation.
EMA also offers engaging programs outside regular school hours, including an after-school program where kids are picked up and brought to EMA for snacks, exploration, and learning. With smiling faces, eager learners, and ocean adventures around every corner, EMA is a great way for the whole family to connect with the sea while gaining a deeper appreciation for marine life and conservation.
Surf City Ocean Pier, Inc.
112 S Shore Dr, Surf City
As Topsail Island's first ocean pier, Surf City Ocean Pier, Inc. holds a special place in the community. Originally built in 1948, the Lore family has owned and operated this iconic pier since 1973. While it faced destruction during Hurricane Fran in 1996, the pier was completely rebuilt and reopened in 1997, maintaining much of its classic charm while adding a few modern upgrades.
Stretching 937 feet into the Atlantic, the pier boasts a unique 40-foot octagon at the end, providing plenty of space for fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines. With two large fish cleaning stations equipped with fresh running water and ample lighting, it's a favorite spot for daytime and nighttime fishing. The large, well-lit parking area makes it easy to access, and the tackle shop is fully stocked with bait and fishing gear.
The Topsail Beach experience
Working with Karen Dupree can make all the difference for those considering a move to this scenic paradise. With over two decades of experience as a REALTOR® and a reputation as "the Persevering Agent," Karen is known for her quick, efficient results and commitment to developing trust with her clients. Her flexibility and strategic problem-solving skills make navigating the Topsail Beach, NC, real estate market a breeze.
