It’s time to book your next laid-back beach getaway.

Topsail Island sits about 40 milesnortheast of Wilmington.

Topsail makes an ideal summer getaway as it rarely gets crowded even during the peak season.

Surf City pier North Carolina

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Each of the three main towns provides a fun and laid-back beach vacation.

Only the tops of the boats' sails were visible to ships approaching from the Atlantic.

Rumor has it that Blackbeard’s treasure is still buried somewhere on the island.

Seafood steam pot on Topsail Island

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North Topsail Beach has 4x4 access onto the beach off of River Road.

An access pass must be purchased before entering.

In Topsail Beach, set up your chair at Serenity Point to catch a breathtaking sunset.

Southern Living Topsail Beach

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While you’re here, visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City.

Visitors can take a tour of the facility and help with the rehabilitation efforts of the turtle patients.

Check the website before you go since the center’s hours change by season.

Rods and crab traps are available for rental.

Check the pier’s webcam to see a sneak peek of the day’s conditions before heading out.

Book a sunset cruise for spectacular views on the water.

Classes generally take place from June to August, but check the group’s website for scheduling.

They also offer kids' classes and camps.

The museum is in a historic building used by the government for a secret missile operation in the 1940s.

Exhibits also cover pirates and the natural history of the area.

All are designed to “Surf and Protect” Mother Ocean.

The first-come, first-serve patio within sight of the beach welcomes dogs and features live music.

Their patio also offers ocean views and live music.

In addition to steamers and shooters, they offer fried fish and sandwiches.

Try the steaks, grilled fish, or burgers topped with bourbon-smoked bacon.

They also have an extensive bourbon list and serve weekend brunch.

Just steam and eat.

They even allow dogs (with a fee).

topsailislandinn.com;202 Goldsboro Ave., Surf City, NC 28445; 910-328-2341