Our journey to find the best beach in North Carolina brought us to Surf City on a hot mid-July Saturday. After running some errands near home, we packed the car for a possible overnight camping trip and drove the 2-2.5 hours to this beach just north of Wilmington. Friends of ours had recommended the area, and more specifically, the southern-most beach called Topsail. We decided to stay in Surf City because it was the first beach we arrived to early afternoon and we were ready for the ocean!
One of my biggest frustrations with North Carolina beaches: I have yet to find one with easily accessible bathrooms and changing areas. After drinking so much water in the car, I had to walk 10 minutes to find a bathroom at the pier shop that housed everything from bait to water toys to a restaurant. Walking into a shop with the sole intention of using the bathroom always makes me feel uncomfortable, and it didn't help that the staff stared at me as I walked in and out.
After taking care of my own business and not that of the business where I did my business, I was able to enjoy a great beach day. Colin and I convinced Darwin to swim for a bit. He preferred the areas where he was not overcome by the waves - a preference I can understand. The three of us ran and splashed, and splashed and ran through the shallow water for a while. Once he was all tuckered out, he found Colin's beach blanket to be a suitable place to relax and dry off. The Sandman, a friend of dogs too, found Darwin quickly. Darwin slept so heavily, I doubt he noticed when we left him alone while we went for a swim in the deeper part of the ocean!
Darwin and I enjoying an afternoon siesta in the shade
We spent the entire afternoon and evening at the beach and it was just delightful. The air was pleasantly in the upper 80s with water temperature comfortably in the low to mid 70s. As evening drew near and the crowds dissipated, we thoroughly enjoyed the serenity of cool and quiet beach. Even Darwin kept his yapper shut.
When the last bit of sun dipped below the horizon, we decided to make the 2-2.5 hour drive back to enjoy a restful night's sleep in our own bed.
I love the beach at all times of the day and in all seasons. While summer is my favorite because I can sunbathe, cool off in the water, or relax under the beach umbrella, I feel nostalgic on an empty beach with a sweatshirt or jacket on. Perhaps it brings back great memories of growing up in Rhode Island and having the beach a mere 30 - 40 minutes away. Or, maybe it reminds me of times Colin and I would ride out to Long Island and walk or run on the empty beach. Either way, sitting on the beach hearing only the waves crash on shore and seeing a vibrant red sunset is one of my favorite ways to end a day.
Tell me about the best beach you've been to in the U.S.
When is your favorite time of year to visit the beach?
