Topsail Beach Named a Top 10 North Carolina Beach by USA TODAY

Ranked #8 in USA TODAY’s list of North Carolina’s top beaches, Topsail beckons with quiet sands, sea turtle rescue, pirate lore, and WWII missile towers.

Topsail Beach has claimed the #8 spot on USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice list for Best Beaches in North Carolina. This acclaim underscores its appeal as a treasured coastal gem—ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking serene seaside escapes.
 

What Makes Topsail Beach Special:
1. Pristine & Peaceful Sand Strips
Part of the 26-mile-long Topsail Island—including North Topsail Beach and Surf City—Topsail boasts soft white sands and clear Atlantic waters. Thanks to fewer crowds and a laid‑back vibe, it offers a quieter experience.

2. Rich History & Local Lore
  • Pirate legend origins: The name “Topsail” likely comes from 18th-century pirates like Blackbeard, who hid behind the dunes, sails barely visible above, watching merchant ships waiting to strike.
  • Operation Bumblebee: During WWII, this island seedbed of missile testing helped birth the U.S. space program. Many concrete observation towers now serve as unique residences.
  • Town heritage: Topsail Beach, incorporated in 1963, retains its small-town charm.
3. Outdoor & Wildlife Experiences
  • Sea turtle conservation: The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center in Surf City treats turtles year‑round and protects nesting sites along the island
  • Beachcombing treasures: Visitors often find shark teeth washed ashore—nature’s hidden gems
  • Kayaking & fishing: Explore marshes, paddle through inlet waters, or fish off iconic piers like Surf City Ocean Pier.
4. Family-Friendly Fun & Local Culture
  • Low-key community: From mini‑golf and science classes to ghost‑crab hunts, Topsail offers engaging outdoor activities without the hustle and bustle
  • Endearing local spots: Dine at waterfront seafood restaurants, visit the Missiles & More Museum, or attend seasonal events—even summer beach movies and holiday flotillas
 
Topsail Beach’s #8 ranking marks more than a tourist accolade—it honors a place where nature, history, and community blend seamlessly. With its tranquil shores, wildlife conservation, storied past, and relaxed charm, Topsail stands out as a North Carolina beach worth discovering.