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Visitor Information

Insiders Tips for Getting the Best Out of Your Visit to the Area

On behalf of the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, and all those fortunate enough to make Topsail their home, we welcome you to what is locally referred to as, "just another day in paradise."

In seeking out those who have been around here a while, they offer some tips that may make your stay at the beach a bit more enjoyable.

Getting here:
On a Saturday during July and August it is not uncommon for some 10,000 to 15,000 people to descend onto Topsail over a three to four hour period. Therefore, be advised, coming onto the Island through Surf City, there may be backups from the intersection of Rt. 210 and Rt. 50 onto the Island.

Also bear in mind that the Surf City Swing Bridge customarily opens at the top of the hour, which predicates longer backups. On the half-hour is often a better time to cross. A convenient alternative may be coming onto the Island through Sneads Ferry, via the high-rise bridge into North Topsail Beach.

Nowhere on the Island is the speed limit greater than 55 mph. It is usually 45, and much less in the towns. Please observe the speed limits, and remember that we are bike friendly, pedestrian friendly and pet friendly. You may see an occasional golf cart or beach buggy as well. All are a part of our "Island Culture," so please be so aware while driving.

While You Are Here:
Many people choose to do their weekly grocery shopping after they check in. That's a lot of people, buying a lot of groceries, so be forewarned. Shopping earlier in the day or in the early evening may save you some time and some frustration. Further, bear in mind that filling up an empty refrigerator with a week's worth of groceries will take a while for them to cool.

Many of our visitors find a need for a number of items after they arrive. In addition to the usual beach chairs, umbrellas and the like, innkeepers and property managers can direct you to those who rent DVD players, grills, and other items you may discover you'd like to have on hand while you are with us.
A good practice shortly after arriving is also to make a note of any emergency numbers that you feel you might need.

One of the true joys of visiting Topsail is going out to our restaurants, which offer a variety of servings. Crunch time for restaurants is usually between around 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Families with younger children often find it a good practice to go a bit earlier. The kids can get testy, when they are tired and hungry. Call ahead to your favorite restaurant, to see if they take reservations or have some suggestions, especially if you have a large dinner party.

Sunscreen is a must, for in addition to the bright summer sunshine, there is also a glare off the water with which to contend. Don't try to tough it out. Use an SPF 45 or higher, so you don't allow a bad sunburn to ruin your week at the beach.
Remember too that the bright summer day can spoil a good photo. You may find it a good idea to adjust your camera's settings accordingly. It is brighter than you think out there.

Few will venture to the beach, without taking a swim in the ocean. Common sense reminds us that it is always wise to take a "buddy" with you. Further, be aware of rip current warnings, and how to deal with them. Warning signs are posted near many of the beach accesses.

Fishing is a common pastime for some visiting the beach. For others it is a passion. Remember that beginning in 2007, a saltwater fishing license is required in North Carolina. Local bait and tackle shops can set you up. While you are there, be sure and ask them what's biting, and where, and the best way you should bait your rig.

Other visitors have a passion for golf. With a half dozen courses in or near the Topsail area, visitors have an outstanding choice of courses from which to choose. Remember, it is best to call ahead for tee times, especially during the summer, when things can get busy.

Mid to late afternoon is often the time visitors return from the beach, and choose to take a shower or do a load of wash. You may discover the water pressure is not what is had been earlier in the day. This is no cause for alarm, but just be aware this is another fact of life during our high season. Additionally, any efforts to help conserve water will be appreciated by everyone.

Visitors to Topsail enjoy the natural environment. Bear in mind, we are the guests and those that make their home at sea and in the air are the natives. Come evening, oceanfront guests are asked to please turn off their outside front porch lights during the summer, when sea turtles come in to nest.

If you should see a nest, or the tracks in the sand made by the nesting mother, please call 910-470-2880 and report the nest immediately. Also, you will do the sea turtles a great favor by not disturbing the nest, but remaining watch over it until the nest has been secured by one of the Sea Turtle Hospital volunteers.

We'd like to think it never rains at the beach, but from time to time, it does. This time of year, it is usually a brief, late afternoon shower, and is a great time for some indoor activities. The Sea Turtle Hospital and Missiles and More Museum are open from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. five days a week.

Other historic attractions to visit that will be more gratifying than a visit to your local shopping mall include Moores Creek Battlefield, Poplar Grove Plantation and the Battleship North Carolina.

A brief rain shower is also a great time to visit an art gallery, a shop, or pop into a snack bar for a cold beverage.

Leaving Here:
Traffic leaving the Island is usually not as busy at that arriving, but there are a few good practices to consider. Fuel up your vehicle the night before, and load the car early in the morning, before the heat of the day sets in. There is often a rush on at those places that serve morning coffee, and biscuits and pastries, so plan accordingly.

Remember too that even though you've enjoyed a relaxing week, you are now "off Island time," and in a hurry to get home. Those traveling on I-40 west can observe the posted 70 MPH speed limit, and make good time. However, once reaching I-95, regardless of your direction, you'll begin to encounter much more traffic, and speed limits appropriate with that traffic. Don't let a citation spoil the end of your week.

A few of these tips may be helpful while you are with us, and we hope they will help make your stay more pleasurable. Finally, we do hope you enjoy your visit with us, and further hope that you will return soon and often.