There is a legend that some North Carolina locals tell about the past of an island with beautiful beaches. A pirate story. Some say that buccaneers used to hide in the channel between Topsail Island and the mainland and wait for merchant ships and attack them. Even Blackbeard is mentioned in these tales, and the name of this lovely island is related to these folktales. If you wish to unveil the hidden treasure of North Carolina, you can do so on the sandy beaches of Surf City, one of the three townships of Topsail Island. Now a family-friendly town, you will find lots of activities on a tour of Surf City. For a place to stay, there are amazing Airbnbs here. For those looking to stay a while, a long-term rental might be a better fit. If you are planning a trip soon, continue reading to discover the best things to do in Surf City, North Carolina.
1. Stretch out those muscles with Lea Island Yoga
With its miles of unspoiled shoreline, soft sands, and the rhythmic lull of ocean waves, Surf City offers the perfect backdrop for rejuvenating and invigorating yoga sessions. Lea Island Yoga and Adventures takes full advantage of this serene setting, offering private beach yoga sessions for families and friend groups. These personalized sessions allow you to connect with the natural beauty of the island while indulging in the practice of yoga at your own pace.
Topsail Island’s tranquil ambiance makes it an ideal destination to unwind, find inner peace, and nourish your body and soul amidst the coastal serenity.
Lea Island Yoga and Adventures
Address: 561 Atkinson Point Rd, Surf City, NC 28445, United States
Website: Lea Island Yoga and Adventures
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
2. Stroll around Kenneth D. Batts Family Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Care to spend a quiet afternoon in the park? Surf City is home to Kenneth D. Batts Family Park. This park was originally named after the city but was changed to Kenneth D. Batts to honor the man of the same name who was killed in a bicycle accident. Batts was on the town council in the 80s and 90s. This memorial park is a fine place for a picnic with your loved ones. There’s a pavilion, a basketball court, and a playground. There’s also a boardwalk going into Topsail Sound.
Kenneth D. Batts Family Park
Address: 911 S Topsail Dr, Surf City, NC 28445, United States
Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)
3. Explore exquisite designs at Tommy J Designer Jewelry
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Tommy j Designer Jewelry on Friday, November 2, 2018
Add to your collection of precious charms and visit Tommy J Designer Jewelry in Surf City. This independent shop sells intricate sterling silver and 14K yellow and white gold jewelry made by local artist Tommy James, with creations for other popular makers like Nicole Barr and Matt Bezak. If you’re in town for a romantic outing and are looking for a nice little gift for your special someone, consider getting your present here. From cute trinkets to stunning rings, you’re going to find the best surprise for your loved one here.
Tommy J Designer Jewelry
Address: 13500 NC-50, Surf City, NC 28445, United States
Website: Tommy J Designer Jewelry
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Sing along at The Daily Grind Surf City
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Daily Grind Surf City on Thursday, May 6, 2021
If you need a little pick-me-up after a day out and about in town, treat yourself to the Daily Grind Surf City. This coffee shop serves a classic selection of coffees and espressos which are best paired with their delectable goodies like cinnamon rolls. Occasionally, you’ll chance upon live performances and acoustic sessions at night. In case you have late-night cravings and are looking for a place other than the 24-hour fast-food chains, this is one of the best places to go. They are open daily until 11 pm!
The Daily Grind Surf City
Address: 114 N Topsail Dr, Surf City, NC 28445, United States
Website: The Daily Grind Surf City
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
5. Tour the seas with The Belle of Topsail
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Belle of Topsail and Hydro bikes, bikes on the water available for rent.
Posted by The Belle of Topsail on Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Don’t know what to do in Surf City, NC? You can start your pirate adventure in Topsail Island with a different tours offered by The Belle of Topsail. Most of the cruises are made on a replica of an 1880s riverboat and go through the North Carolina Intracoastal waterway and sounds. There are different types, like dinner and show cruises, the Captain’s Sunset or Dolphin Search Cruises or the most popular choice: the Pirate Show Cruise. In addition, they offer a private option for 6 passengers on board of The Raven, the only “real pirate boat” on the area. It is recommended to check the website for season schedules on all options.
The Belle of Topsail
Address: 518 C Roland Ave. (Back lot), Surf City, NC 28445
Website: The Belle of Topsail
6. Tee off against your friends at Shipwreck Point Golf
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Shipwreck Point Miniature Golf on Saturday, May 30, 2020
In tune with the Pirate theme of the island, Shipwreck Point Golf provides fun for the whole family with two 18-hole mini-golf courses that resemble a tropical island with waterfalls, a shipwreck, flags and skulls and lots of pirate decorations. There is a lovely gift shop where you can get souvenirs to keep as a token of your visit to Surf City.
Shipwreck Point Golf
Address: 107 Charlie Medlin Dr., Surf City, NC 28445
Facebook: Shipwreck Point Golf
7. Make adorable friends at Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
There is no better way to learn about the local sea fauna than with a visit to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center. With the hard work of volunteers and what is earned from the fees payed by visitors, this attraction in Surf City is able to perform its mission of conservation and preservation of all species of marine turtles, both in the water and on the beach. Loggerhead and other varieties of endangered sea turtles nest on Surf City’s shores from May through October, and the center offers tours and activities where you can learn and appreciate those wonderful creatures. Be sure to ask for directions from the locals before your visit, since their new facility is not found on Google Maps yet and the road where it is located is too new and doesn’t show up on GPS.
Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center
Address: 302 Tortuga Ln, Surf City, NC 28445
Website: Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center
8. Cast your line into the water at Surf City Pier
Some of the best activities in Surf City are right at this pier. Those who are into fishing will have a great time on this pier that was rebuilt in the 1970s, after being destroyed by Hurricane Fran. Surf City Pier has everything that you need: lighting for night fishing, two large fish-cleaning stations with fresh water, bait supplies, and a fully stocked tackle shop. It is a great space even if you just want to go for a stroll, as it has an outside covered dining area and a great American grill restaurant in Surf City, North Carolina. You can also go to Surf City’s Beach House Marina if you want to book boat charters, water sports, and fishing trips.
Surf City Pier
Address: 112 South Shore Drive, Surf City, NC 28445
Website: Surf City Pier
9. Admire lovely exhibits at Seacoast Art Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Seacoast Art Gallery on Thursday, December 5, 2019
A wonderful opportunity to find some hidden treasures, the Seacoast Art Gallery was established in 1987 and is a family owned establishment. It features original works and reproductions by local artists, and you can also find a large variety of pottery, glass, metal and crafts. As a bonus, you can meet artist and owner Sandy McHugh, who takes residence there from late spring through early November, and is quite a character.
Seacoast Art Gallery
Address: 121 South Topsail Dr, Surf City, NC 28445
Facebook: Seacoast Art Gallery
10. Breathe in the fresh air at Soundside Park
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, Soundside Park guarantees a great time with the family because of the available picnic shelters, boardwalk around the sound’s edge and playground that includes a climbing wall, a climbing fish, multiple slides and swings. It has several viewing decks to take great photos of the beautiful landscape. Ask about the season events, since the space also serves as a venue for concerts and movies.
Soundside Park
Address: 517 Roland Ave, Surf City, NC 28445
Website: Soundside Park
11. Learn more about local wildlife with Tiki Tours
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thank you for another awesome private trip onboard the TIKI TIME pontoon! www.tikitoursnc.com
Posted by Tiki Tours on Sunday, August 15, 2021
A perfect chance to spot and learn about local fauna, with the great attention from the Tiki Tours staff. They offer different types of cruises, including the popular Shelling Tour where you get to see Lea-Hutaff Island, an uninhabited paradise with shallow waters that is perfect for shelling. Don’t miss it!
Tiki Tours
Address: 412 Roland Avenue, Surf City, NC 28445
Website: Tiki Tours
12. Relax with a soothing massage at Back In Touch
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Breathe and relax! Owner Michael McDowell and staff specialize in Sacred Lomi, an ancient Hawaiian Temple-style massage that will take you to another level. Their mission focuses on providing continuing education for massage therapists, so you need to ask in advance if they are receiving new clients. If you are in luck, you will experience one of the most special and energizing experiences of your life.
Back In Touch
Address: 418 N New River Drive, Surf City, NC 28445
Website: Back In Touch
13. Go Jet Skiing
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the funniest ways to enjoy Surf City’s waters is on a Jet Ski ride. You can get everything that you need in Surf City Jet Ski Rentals, who provide life vests, fuel, and a brief watercraft orientation so that you have a pleasant and safe experience. They also offer tour guides that adapt to your group’s needs. Pay attention to their early bird specials for discounts on 9:00 am or 10:00 am slots with prior reservation.
Surf City Jet Ski Rentals
Address: 512 Roland Ave., Surf City, NC 28445
Website: Surf City Jet Ski Rentals
14. Pick up fashionable pieces at Topsail Island Trading Company
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
There's no place we'd rather be than right here in Surf City, getting to provide our amazing visitors with fantastic souvenirs.
Posted by The Topsail Island Trading Company on Friday, July 16, 2021
Your journey to Surf City can’t be complete without a visit to the Topsail Island Trading Company. They have a wonderful selection of fine jewelry and options for all members of the family as well: t-shirts, toys, bags and more. However, their trademark is on their variety of delicious fudge made fresh daily, right in the store. They have more than 160 flavors, yummy!
Topsail Island Trading Company
Address: 201 N New River Dr, Surf City, NC
Website: Topsail Island Trading Company
15. Stop in at the Salty Turtle Beer Co. in Surf City
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Ideal for a stop in on the way back from the Turtle Hospital, the small Brewery has a range of craft beer. It is kid friendly with board games during the day. Find cold beer, lots of Southern charm and an interesting array of beer. Enjoy good music, good beer, and good people. You can see the actual brewery through a glass window. You can choose to sit either outside or indoors.
Beer drinkers can even take a taste of some of the beer before ordering their favored pint. Choose between the likes of Barnacle Bill’s Brown Ale or Betio Blond. They have a nice outside deck and dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas.
Salty Turtle Beer Co.
Address: 103 Triton Lane, Surf City, Topsail Island, NC 28445
Website: Salty Turtle Beer Co.
16. Kill the hunger rumbles and dine on the best seafood dishes
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Sears Landing Grill and Boat Docks on Friday, July 23, 2021
Your daily adventures and activities will make you hungry. So hit the spot by eating some awesome seafood dishes at Sears Landing Grill & Boat. Enjoy a menu full of tempting meals like crab cakes, oyster po-boy, or the fresh catch of the day. Try the West Indies omelet for a unique flavor, or mahi mahi. Scallops are a popular favorite. Choose from a selection of sauces to eat with your seafood meal.
Sit out on the porch if you like, on rocking chairs. With bar service and a selection of scrumptious sandwiches, you really are in for a good dining experience. If you have to wait for a while, note this is a sign of really good food.
Sears Landing Grill & Boat
Address: 806 Roland Ave, Surf City, Topsail Island, NC 28445-6
Nearby things to do
17. Learn more about Topsail Island's history at Missiles and More Museum
Missiles and More Museum, located on Topsail Island, is a captivating window into the island’s rich history, particularly its significant role during World War II and beyond. This engaging museum offers a trove of artifacts, exhibits, and historical insights that provide a vivid portrayal of Topsail Island’s transformation from a serene coastal haven to a military testing ground during the war.
The museum’s name reflects its mission: not only does it house a collection of military relics and information about the island’s missile testing range, but it also explores the island’s diverse history and culture. Examine whether the notorious pirate Blackbeard was here or learn more about the indigenous population.
Missiles and More Museum
Address: 720 Channel Blvd, Topsail Beach, NC 28445, United States
Website: Missiles and More Museum
The X marks the spot
Surf City is the place to spend a wonderful time with your loved ones and furry companions, too, as it has some of the best pet-friendly rentals. You don’t need to have a map to find the treasure: just enjoy the beach and prepare for an adventure for the whole family before retiring to your vacation rental with a private pool.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Surf City
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