53°F
As the autumn colors and cooler temps arrive, residents and visitors alike are refreshed, reinvigorated and ready to explore the North Carolina coast and the adventurous family fun things to do in Onslow’s Great Outdoors. We’ve rounded up some great ideas for you — so start packing your shorts and sweatshirts, kayaks, canoes, running shoes, bicycles, golf clubs, fishing rods, picnic basket— well, just pack what you can and come on!
What’s Your Adventure?
Biking – Fishing – Parks – Boating – Beach – Golf – Paddling
Go for a Bike Ride on our Trails
Scenic routes and fun rides are available for cyclists of all levels to enjoy! From flat, shaded trails to long-distance routes, you’ll find miles of trails winding within and throughout the city of Jacksonville and stretching all the way to the coast. See our Visitor Guide for a list of trails, including the recently opened Big Branch Bike Trail, — a 1.6-mile flow trail and 4.6-mile intermediate mountain bike trail in Jacksonville. Biking Trails
Cast A Line
Come for a weekend of recreational and deep water fishing on the Intracoastal Waterway and beaches. On the New River and the White Oak River, reel in speckled trout, red drum, flounder and largemouth bass. Hire a savvy fishing guide or charter for beginner or advanced trips. Visit NCWildlife.org for licensing and rules. Check out our local fishing charters and start making your plans.
Pack a Picnic and Play at our Parks
Burn off some energy or commune with nature at our local community parks. Visit a park at the beach, in the country or in the city of Jacksonville. Activities include boat and kayak launches, splash pads, picnic shelters, playgrounds. Plus see our festivals and events to add to your park experience.
Chart Your Course on a Boating Excursion
Take a chartered eco-tour of hope on a marsh cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway for a shelling excursion. Many of our fishing charters offer shrimping, crabbing and sunset cruises. See our specialty cruise operators for more details.
Photo: Lady Swan Boat Tours
Hit the Beach
With more than 30 miles of family-friendly gorgeous and uncrowded coastline to enjoy, our sandy beaches are the perfect playground for everything from fishing to water sports or simply relaxing. Read more about North Topsail Beach and adventures to Bear Island at Hammocks Beach State Park.
Play a Round of Golf
Hit the links at one of our public golf courses in Jacksonville or play mini-golf. Head to the coast for a golf getaway package at North Shore Country Club and enjoy the natural beauty of the Intracoastal Waterway and the fun of golf in one setting.
Paddle Our Waterways
All the fun you can imagine is out on the water. If you’re new to paddling or a seasoned expert, top-of-the-line paddleboards and kayaks are available to rent at one of our paddling outfitters, as are guided tours and eco-tours. Plus rent jet skis, surfboards, beach bikes or a boat to explore our coastal waterways. See more about our water recreation rentals.
Read Our Next Blog
For more information about visiting Bear Island, check out our Beach Days in Onslow page as well as our Outdoor Fun & Adventures in Onslow blog post.
Did you know that Swansboro was named One of the 25 Coolest Small Towns in America? READ ON!
Click to Download Our Visitor Guide
We look forward to seeing you at the southern coast of North Carolina, #OnlyinOnslow!
