Topsail Beach vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Topsail Beach vacation rentals

Stay near Topsail Beach's top sights

Beach Shop & Grill55 locals recommend
Topsail Beach Skating Rink, seasonal hours34 locals recommend
Missiles and More Museum32 locals recommend
Quarter Moon Books & Gifts24 locals recommend
Patio Playground - the Putt-Putt16 locals recommend
Serenity Point17 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Topsail Beach

  • Total rentals

    340 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $70 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    4K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    310 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    130 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    50 properties have a pool

Your guide to Topsail Beach

All About Topsail Beach

Located off the coast of North Carolina at the southern end of the 26-mile-long Topsail Island, the small town of Topsail Beach boasts pristine golden beaches and cottage-style beach houses nestled among tall grasses that run alongside the shoreline. Without the high rises and crowds you find in many beach towns, Topsail Beach is able to maintain some of its small-town charm.

The clear blue waters in the Banks Channel and Atlantic Ocean allow for excellent water-related activities like boating and fishing. After a day of fishing from the Seaview Fishing Pier, you can grill up some of your fresh catches or head down to one of the local restaurants that will cook them for you. You may have to dodge a rain shower during your stay, but a gray-weather day is the ideal time to enjoy one of the local indoor attractions, like the Missiles and More Museum.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Topsail Beach

Summers are generally considered an ideal time to stay at Topsail Beach rentals, as the weather during this time is hot and humid, with frequent rains in July and August, but you can always cool off with a dip in the ocean. The temperatures fall into more comfortably cool ranges as autumn rolls around while the water remains warm enough to enjoy all of the local water-related activities. Keep in mind the fall season does bring an increased risk for hurricanes. Fall brings events like the Autumn with Topsail Festival, where you can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, and a craft show. Winters in Topsail Beach are cool yet mild, with the occasional freezing day in January, but little chance of snow. Although the spring temperatures are warm and pleasant, the ocean water may still be too chilly to enjoy.


Top things to do in Topsail Beach

Missiles & More Museum

Housed in the building that was once used by the government to assemble missiles for a secret operation on the island, the Missile and More Museum now focuses on the diverse history of the area. Not only will you learn about the Native Americans and pirates who lived here, you can also learn about the island’s ecosystem and observe the seashell collection, which includes more than 10,000 shells.

Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center

Around 35 minutes from Topsail Beach, you will find the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, where sick and injured sea turtles are taken to heal before being released back into the ocean. This is a unique place to learn about sea turtles and what goes into the conservation efforts in Topsail Beach. As an active sea turtle hospital, the number of turtle patients may vary depending on the needs at the time, so during your visit there may be a bay full of injured turtles or just a few.

Moores Creek National Battlefield

Located around one hour east of Topsail Beach in the town of Currie, the Moore’s Creek National Battlefield is the site of the 1776 battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, which was the first significant victory for the patriots in the American Revolution. Once you arrive, you can take a walk through the visitor center, where you can watch a short film regarding the historic battle and observe exhibits focused on the history of the area. You can then explore the trail system and the site of the battle, fish on Moore’s Creek, and grill your fresh catches in the sheltered picnic area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Topsail Beach?

    Topsail Beach experiences a mild climate throughout the year. Summers are typically warm, with temperatures often reaching 90°F (32°C), while winters are cool, averaging around 50°F (10°C). Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures, usually ranging between 70°F (21°C) and 80°F (27°C).

  • What are some of the best things to do in Topsail Beach?

    Visitors to Topsail Beach often enjoy activities such as exploring the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches, picnicking in local parks, and delving into history at the Missiles and More Museum. Fishing and boating are also frequently enjoyed activities.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Topsail Beach?

    The warm summer months, particularly June through August, see the highest number of visitors in Topsail Beach. During this time, the town hosts the popular 'Autumn with Topsail' festival, a community event featuring local arts, crafts, and food.

  • What are the best places to stay in Topsail Beach?

    Popular areas to stay in Topsail Beach include the downtown area for its proximity to local attractions, the coastal area for easy beach access, and the serene Sound Side area, known for its rich birdlife and calm waters.

  • What are the best places to visit in Topsail Beach?

    Popular places to visit in Topsail Beach include the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, the Missiles and More Museum, and the local parks that dot the town. The beautiful beaches and Sound Side Nature Park are also often recommended.

  • What are some hiking trails in Topsail Beach?

    While Topsail Beach doesn't have extensive hiking trails, it does have several scenic walking paths. The Sound Side Park provides a tranquil setting for nature walks and bird watching. For a more challenging hike, visitors often travel 40 miles (64 km) to Holly Shelter Game Land.

  • What are some family activities to do in Topsail Beach?

    Families visiting Topsail Beach can explore the interactive exhibits at the Missiles and More Museum, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, spend a day at the beach building sandcastles, or enjoy a picnic in one of the local parks.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Topsail Beach?

    Popular day trips from Topsail Beach include exploring the city of Wilmington, located about 40 miles (64 km) away, strolling the gardens at Airlie, or visiting the historic Fort Fisher State Historic Site and Aquarium.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Topsail Beach?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Topsail Beach. Choose from more than 130 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Topsail Beach?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 120 vacation rentals in Topsail Beach featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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