This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in North Carolina

A little-known waterfront town in North Carolina makes all of your worries melt away and is grounds for ultimate discovery. There’s nothing like feeling the breeze in your hair, strolling down the main street to grab some ice cream, and walking along the water to dig your toes in the sand. 

The quiet, small town of Surf City is located on Topsail Island and can be easily overshadowed by its neighbors, Topsail Beach and North Topsail Beach. With close to 40 public beach access points, soft sand, and sunsets that’ll rival any that you’ve seen before, Surf City is one of the best hidden beaches in North Carolina that can’t be missed. 

What to Know Before You Go 

Believe it or not, Topsail Island, where Surf City is located, is known as one of the top spots for shark teeth in North Carolina. Don’t be surprised if you run into some teeth from a bull, tiger, or sand shark in some tidal pools near low tide.

Surf City is also situated along the Intracoastal Waterway that separates the town from the mainland. That being said, there are plenty of opportunities to paddle, kayak, and boat along the Intracoastal Waterway. See the marsh come to life as you watch crabs scurry among the tall grasses, watch the herons keep a close eye on their next target, and witness schools of fish swish around in the water.

Surf City is also home to some of the best fishing in North Carolina. The town has roots as a small fishing village, and you're able to see glimpses of its thriving fishing grounds with fleets of shrimpers and fishing boats gliding along the waterway and offshore waters. Some of the best fishing spots include the docks at Soundside and Kenneth D. Batts Parks to fish inshore, and there’s a boat launch at Soundside Park to take your kayak or boat into the Intracoastal.

What to See and Do in Surf City 

Surf City adds some of its own to the best waterfront restaurants in North Carolina, such as Sears Landing and Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille, which serves customers coming from both land and sea. Grab some seafood at these bustling spots before ending your sun-soaked day with some homemade ice cream from Sea Blue Coffee & Ice Cream.

If you’re like me and love turtles, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center to learn about and see rescued sea turtles and their threat of extinction. Keep in mind that reservations are required for your visit, and there are specific dates and times for public tours at the sea turtle hospital.

Why This Little-Known Waterfront Town in North Carolina Is So Charming

What makes Surf City so charming is its small-town, family-focused beach atmosphere. There are plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your loved ones, whether that’s setting up a picnic in the Nelva R. Albury Recreation Area, strolling around the grounds of Surf City Community Center, catching a nighttime movie at Soundside Park, or simply building some sandcastles or riding the waves at the beach. 

There are also countless family-owned restaurants, shops, and more that line the town, so you’ll never run out of fun activities to get involved in. Beach memories are made in Surf City. From the family-focused atmosphere to the charming waterfront attractions to its hometown feel, Surf City is a must-visit waterfront gem.