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Take a Family Beach Vacation in North Carolina

Spring is just around the corner!  It’s time to start making plans for your getaway!  Located on a barrier island, North Topsail Beach has a reputation for its amazing beauty and a wide variety of coastal wildlife. You won’t find a plethora of high-rises and towering condo buildings here.  Rather, you’ll discover sea turtle nests on the beach, exceptional fishing locales and many unobstructed views for birdwatching.  Are you an outdoor adventurer?  Book a jet ski tour to see spectacular views of the whole island from the water.

So many of us don’t like to leave home without our furry family members!  Vacationers and locals enjoy the North Topsail Beach pet-friendly, relaxed and unspoiled public beach access along with free parking.

Don’t Miss:  If you are looking for some fun after the sun, The Trailer Bar is a casual and laid back one-of-a-kind spots to catch a good band or play a round of pool.  Affectionately noted as one of the best “hole-in-the-wall joints” in North Carolina with an extensive wine list, by Our State Magazine, there’s a little something for everyone here.


Hammocks Beach State Park is a beautiful place for water recreation!  You can take the pontoon ferry from the Park office or take your kayak or small boat to Bear Island. For the outdoor enthusiast, primitive camping is available by permit at one of the several prepared sites. What an amazing spot for long walks along the unspoiled beach!   One end of the Island looks out onto Emerald Isle and Bogue Inlet.  If you enjoy looking for shells, there are lots to be found!  While on the island, enjoy a nice bathhouse with hot showers and numerous covered picnic tables.

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider a private excursion to Hammocks Beach and the islands around Swansboro with Marsh Cruises!  Have a personal tour by boat of our area’s coastline that boasts sands, maritime forest ecosystems and salt marshes, dolphin watching & more!  Captain Darryl is a Swansboro local and his  23 ft. BayRider Skiff can take you comfortably through the winding backwaters of Swansboro and Emerald Isle for an incredible look at more than 200 species of birds.

Don’t Miss:  Historic Downtown Swansboro is full of unique shops, boutiques, and award-winning restaurants. Need a little break from the sun?  Take an afternoon to get to know this quaint coastal town and enjoy its amazing history and charm.

Where to Stay

The area offers a  great value for families looking to explore the entire coastal region of North Carolina.   We are located within a short drive from many regional attractions and points of interest.  Check out the Quality Inn – Sneads Ferry/North Topsail Beach, or The Topsail Shores Inn, as well as the Hampton Inn – Sneads Ferry/North Topsail Beach – which opened in May of 2018!  

If you’re looking for a Trip Advisor top-rated hotel in Swansboro – we recommend the Hampton Inn & Suites Swansboro.

More Things to Do

Outdoor adventurers enjoy seeing the natural wonder and beauty along the intercoastal waterways.  Paddle NC offers kayak tours and rentals and has numerous locations throughout Onslow County to get out on the water.

If you’re looking for something to do with your crew indoors, check out one of the top-rated family fun activities in Jacksonville, Cracked It! Escape Games.

For more information about our area, visit our website at OnlyInOnslow.com.  We look forward to seeing you here!