Your Guide to Summer on Topsail Island, NC

When you think of summertime, one thing that comes to mind is the beach. Here on Topsail Island, summer is a favorite time of year for locals and visitors alike. Sunny days, cool blue waves, and nothing to do but relax is what summer is all about. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about spending your summer on Topsail Island, NC.
Summer Weather on Topsail
If you’ve never visited eastern NC in the summer, you may wonder just how hot the weather gets. Average Topsail Island, NC summer temperatures are in the upper eighties to low and mid-nineties, with nighttime temperatures slightly cooler. If you come alive in the sunshine and warm weather, you’ll love Topsail Island! Yes, it is humid... and yes, there are mosquitoes. However, with a little planning you can have the best summer vacation ever!
The ocean temperature usually stays between 80 and 86 degrees throughout the summer, so cooling off in the water on a hot summer day will feel fantastic and refreshing.
How to Beat the Summer Heat
The best way to beat the summer heat is to avoid it (without avoiding the beach!). Spend time on the beach in the morning and the early evening. During the hottest part of the day, escape to your vacation rental for lunch and a board game or head to one of the many indoor activities and attractions on the island. Spending time in the air conditioning and out of the sun is a great way to cool off and be ready for more beach fun tomorrow!
Guests are encouraged to stay hydrated and wear sun protection. Avoiding sun burns and drinking plenty of water is a great way to play it cool. Another way to chill out is by visiting a local ice cream shop for an ice-cold sweet treat!
Is Topsail Crowded During the Summer?
While summer is the busiest season for visitors to the area, there is still a laid back and welcoming atmosphere. Topsail is less crowded than the Outer Banks to our north, offering vacationers space to spread out on the beach and an opportunity to enjoy the local culture.

Things to do in Summer on Topsail Island
There are so many fun and exciting things to do in summer on Topsail Island, NC. Are you ready to make memories all summer long? Get out for some fun on the water and enjoy a boat ride, fishing, paddleboarding, a jet ski adventure, kayaking, canoeing, and more. Go beachcombing for unique shells, build an epic sandcastle, or have a sunset picnic with your special someone. (Click here for information on how to pack the perfect picnic basket.)
There’s no need to bring your boat or haul a ton of beach gear with you if you don’t want to. We have excellent beach gear rental companies that rent everything you need for fun on the water or beach.
If your family enjoys wildlife, don’t miss a trip to The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center where you can get up close and personal with sea turtles. Learn about our local rescue and rehabilitation efforts with these beautiful creatures.
Challenge your family to a round of putt-putt golf, throw a few axes at the local axe parlor and arcade, or enjoy a few laps at the Topsail Beach Skating rink that’s been open for over 60 years.
Plenty of fantastic local events are also going on throughout the summer. Add one of these happening to your vacation itinerary:
- Topsail Beach Craft Market
- Topsail Sounds Free Summer Concert Series
- Surf City Movies in the Park (free events)
- Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival
No Topsail Island summer would be complete without live music and good times at our favorite local bars and restaurants. If you love good music and beach vibes, be sure to check it out.
Where to Enjoy Delicious Seafood
During your Topsail Island vacation, you’ll probably want to enjoy a delicious seafood meal or two. Our island paradise offers a selection of seafood restaurants for you to enjoy. Click here to view our favorite local seafood restaurants and plan to try at least one during your stay. Yummy!
Grilling Out at Your Vacation Rental
Summer wouldn't be summer without your favorite seasonal flavors on the grill. Most of our rentals have a barbecue grill for your convenience, and the kitchens are all well-equipped for your culinary needs. What summer recipes will you try first?

Where to Stay
At Seashore Realty, we proudly offer a vast inventory of beautiful vacation rentals that can accommodate various needs and party sizes during your summer vacation to Topsail Island. Whether you’re looking for a rental with a private pool or desire an oceanfront vacation, we’ve got the perfect rental for you! Browse our available rentals and book your summer vacation today. Our summer dates fill up quickly, so plan early and don’t miss out on your dream rental.
Book your summer vacation today and prepare to make memories under the Carolina sun that will last a lifetime.
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