North Topsail Beach

Topsail Island 

North Topsail Beach is located on Topsail Island. This island stretches for 26 miles and has impeccable beaches with plenty of activities. North Topsail Beach has just around 500 people, so it truly is a small town! It’s filled with military history and natural beauty. 

Beaches

North Topsail Beach has over 40 public access points along its island. Its location gives boaters three different terrains between the sound, inlet, and ocean. Each is for a different experience level and activity level. 

One thing that stands out at Topsail Island is the sea turtles! It is one of the most northern nesting sites for loggerhead turtles. As a turtle sanctuary, the town gives weekly turtle updates and protects the eggs during hatching seasons to help all the hatchlings make it to the ocean safely. 

Military History 

Topsail Beach has a long history of military presence. During World War II, Topsail Island was used as a training ground for the Marine Corps. The island was home to a facility known as Camp Davis, which was used for anti-aircraft training. The camp was later converted into a missile testing facility and was used for the development and testing of various missile systems during the Cold War era.

Today the Missiles and More Museum in Topsail Beach provides a comprehensive history of the island's military past, including exhibits on the role of Camp Davis during World War II and the missile testing that took place on the island during the Cold War. The museum also features displays of the area's natural history and cultural heritage.

Essentials 

Two things that are always needed are airports and hospitals. If you’re traveling, the closest airport is Wilmington International Airport, 40 miles southwest of North Topsail Beach. If you need medical attention, Pender Memorial Hospital is about an hour west with full services. 

A Sanctuary 

North Topsail Beach is not just a sanctuary for turtles but for its residents too! With its history, activities, and excellent beaches, it’s a great place to live.