Renato had to go on a business trip to North Carolina, so we decided to tag along and make it into a vacation. Since the trip there from New York is so long, we broke it up both ways. On the way over we stopped at Virginia Beach, and on the way home we went to Washington DC. In between, we spent a week on Topsail Island NC. Here’s what we did there:
Where we stayed: Main Street Inn
I know most people stay in houses on beach vacations, but I didn’t want to have the responsibilities of shopping and cooking, so we looked for a hotel. Renato found the Main Street Inn. I had mixed feelings about it:
The pros:
- It is an adorable place
- It was SO CLEAN!
- The location is amazing
- We had an awesome porch swing
- The outside shower was key!
- Fresh towels and extra toilet paper are provided daily
- Keurig coffee and packaged cookies are always available
- The owner is friendly and nice and extremely responsive to requests
The cons:
- There are no services unless you call 24 hours in advance to have your space cleaned
- There is no food or drink available on the premises (except coffee and cookies)
Eating during A Week on Topsail Island NC
Eating was really the most stressful thing about this vacation. Since we were in an apartment with only a dorm fridge and a microwave, we couldn’t really cook for ourselves. There are wayyyyy more people than seats in restaurants in this town so be prepared for super long wait times. Note that the restaurants have strange hours and are closed on certain days, and you can’t make a reservation. Also, if you are not a seafood eater, you will have a difficult time finding good options to eat. We tried many local establishments including the following:
Breezeway Restaurant
We went to Breezeway on our very first night in Topsail because it was close to our hotel. We had to wait about an hour for the table, but luckily the scenery entertained us during that time.
We tried hush puppies for the first time…we are not fans. The menu was mainly seafood, so we ordered chicken nuggets and the two pasta dishes available. Our server found this hilarious.
Shaka Taco
Shaka Taco is not a table service restaurant. You need to wait on a (really long, but relatively quick moving) line to order food, and then someone brings it to your table. We thought it was pretty good!
Sugar Kingdom
If you know me at all, you know that candy is one of my most favorite things. Sugar Kingdom’s website boasts “the ultimate candy experience” and they may actually be correct! This is the BIGGEST candy store I have ever been to.
Island Delights
If you’re in the market for classically kid friendly food (read: FRIED), try this 50’s style diner. Island Delight’s setting is awesome, but the food not so much.
Beach Shop and Grill
I really enjoyed the atmosphere at Beach Grill…and the food was also pretty good!
Cora’s Isle End Deli
Cora’s was our go-to for breakfast. We particularly loved the caprese panini…YUM!
Santino’s Italian Restaurant
The wait time to get into Santino is outrageous, but its worth it. The food here is absolutely delicious! We dined in one night and also did a take out pizza. (Note that calling to order is impossible…we had to go in person and return 90 minutes later to pick up.
Things to do during a week on Topsail Island, NC
SWIM in the ocean!
We were lucky to have just one day of rain, so we went to the beach (about 4 blocks from our hotel) every day. We taught the kids how to jump over waves and swim into them. It was so much fun!
The surf can get pretty rough and the undertow is strong, so check the flags posted and swim at your own risk. There are no lifeguard posts, but we did see Ocean Rescue teams combing the beach on occasion.
Hang out at the bay
For a much more calm swim, try the bay. Since it is on the west side of the island, you can also see terrific sunsets there!
Observe nature on Topsail Island, NC
We were lucky enough to catch a ton of busy ghost crabs one day at the bay! Sadly, we did not see any sea turtles, but they are indeed plentiful on the island.
Fly a kite
We bought ours at the Surf City IGA Giftshop.
Hunt for Seashells
I enjoyed combing the beach to look for treasure. Then, when I returned home, I got crafty and made myself a souvenir!
Play in the sand!
Watch the sunset
It’s just gorgeous!
Sea turtle hospital
We all enjoyed learning about sea turtles and seeing the rescued animals at the Karen Beaskey Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center! Note that you must purchase tickets online to visit.
Ecological Marine Adventures
This place is so awesome! Here, they rescue animals and place them in tanks with their unique story written out. It’s full of interactive exhibits and there are many lovely people on staff who have a wealth of knowledge to impart to guests. My kids really enjoyed their time here!
Fishing Pier
To get to the pier, you first have to go through the shop. There, you can purchase all things related to fishing, a huge selection of souvenirs, and even have a bite to eat. This is also where you purchase the $1 ticket to enter the pier. The fee is well worth it for the people watching alone…
…but then throw in the view and wow!!
Patio Playground
Perhaps the most popular evening activity here in Topsail is the original (1955) mini golf course. It gets pretty crowded as the evening progresses, so plan accordingly.
There are two arcade rooms at The Patio, and they even have DVDs available for rent (as if anyone still owns a DVD player! 😂)
Last but not least, after burning off all of those calories at the putt-putt, treat yourself to some delicious ice cream!
Topsail Beach Skating Park
Since I am a child of the 70’s, I considered it my duty to introduce my kids to classic roller skating. It was SO MUCH FUN!!!
Topsail Craft Market
On Thursday mornings all summer long, the vacant lot next to our hotel hosts a crafts market where local artisans display their handiwork. I purchased more than a few beautiful things there.
Should I spend A Week on Topsail Island NC?
Definitely! My family really enjoyed our time there. I highly recommend a visit!
