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coaster OFFICIAL GUIDE TO THE TREASURE COAST

TOPSAIL

FESTIVALS & EVENTS TOPSAIL HISTORY FISHING TIPS TURTLE HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATIONS, DINING, SHOPPING, REAL ESTATE & MORE!

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TOPSAIL

Contents Area Attractions

Topsail Coaster 2012-2013 Celebrating 19 Years as the GUIDE TO THE TREASURE COAST Vol. XVIIII • www.nccoast.com

Published by: NCCOAST Communications 201 N. 17th Street Morehead City, NC 28557 Phone: 800.525.1403 Fax: 1.877.247.1856 email: editor@nccoast.com

10 On Island Time: Topsail Island Overview 16 Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach 18 Sites to See 19 Surf City, Hampstead 22 Holly Ridge, Sneads Ferry

Features

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Advertising Director: Jamie Bailey (252.241.9485), sales@nccoast.com Sales Executive: Jasa Lewis (252.648.1272), jasa@nccoast.com Managing Editor: Amanda Dagnino Staff Writer: Melissa Jones Creative Director: Kim Moore Layout/Design: Mimi Davis Graphic Design: Kyle Dixon, Corey Giesey Cover Photo by Mimi G. Davis Topsail Coaster is a visitors’ guide with a minimum annual circulation of 65,000 distributed freely to the public via select Greater Topsail Area locations including advertising businesses, chambers of commerce, state welcome centers and around the country and world via email requests to editor@nccoast.com. Entire contents, maps, ad and graphic design elements copyright 2012-2013 by NCCOAST Communications. Reproduction without the express written consent of the managing editor is prohibited. Neither publisher nor advertisers will be held liable for any misinformation.

Material is as accurate as possible at presstime.

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Guides

Top of the List: Year’s Biggest Events The Towers of Topsail Island Fishing Under the Sea Turtle Tales Coastal Calendar True Treasure Coast Coastal Camping

42 Local Flavor: Guide to Dining Out 43 Good Buys: Shopping 50 Perfect Stay: Accommodations 51 Sea & Do: Recreation 58 Links to the Links: Golf Courses

VIP Info

52 Local Map 54 Tide Tables 61 Advertiser Page Directory

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Welcome to our Natural Paradise

Island Time

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C

rossing the historic swing bridge in Surf City that leads to the glistening shores of Topsail Island could easily be equated to stepping back in time – a time when life was just a little bit simpler, a little bit safer and far less stressful. As soon as the warm beach breeze catches your hair, you know you’ve fallen upon something special. There are no amusement parks. No bike week. No multimillion dollar museums or zoos to lure guests to the region. Instead, you will find miles of beaches and small, friendly, family-run businesses reminiscent of the beach towns of the 1950s and 1960s. All that is lacking is you.

Anyone coming from a more metropolitan area will find it hard to believe that places like Topsail still exist. It’s hard to imagine that there are places where a sunbather can find a small, isolated sliver of beach to call their own for a day. But on Topsail, it’s not only possible, it’s probable.

Topsail Island (pronounced Topsul), was mostly uninhabited until the 1940s. There was no structured settlement, only fishing camps and the livestock belonging to mainland farmers who would run their charges across sandbars and shallows at low tide to graze on the thick underbrush.

Thanks go to the military for raising awareness of this little slice of heaven. During World War II, the US Army constructed Camp Davis in nearby Holly Ridge and used the remote island for artillery training.

When the Army departed a few short years later, the US Navy picked up the torch, taking up residence on Topsail Island for secret Operation Bumblebee missile tests.

While it was the Army that constructed the island’s first humble buildings, it was the Navy that gave the island its most prominent struc-

tures, many of which remain. More than 200 missiles were launched, proving the success of the ramjet engine which laid the foundation for the space shuttle program with its ability to push an aircraft past the speed of sound.

Evidence of the Navy’s presence greets visitors almost as soon as they cross the bridge in Surf City. The Navy constructed a series of concrete watch towers down the expanse of the island, many of which remain in varied states.

A few have been integrated into homes, while others stand solemnly on the ocean’s edge, continuing to keep watch over the island.

The government was gone by 1948, but it left a few remnants behind, including a pontoon bridge to Surf City, basic roads and artesian wells, which were tapped for electricity.

Topsail Island was finally ready for inhabitants.

Life today is much like it was when they left, quiet, peaceful and endlessly picturesque. Sure, technology has arrived. The internet is available, cable TV and all. But, that doesn’t mean that residents or visitors are spending a lot of time indoors using them. With a never ending amount of outside activities, from sunbathing and fishing to kayaking and golf, people discover their time at Topsail is best spent outdoors.

Topsail Coaster

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Top Of The List

Amy Brinkley photo

Spot on Fun Hit the streets of Hampstead for one of the largest festivals that celebrates this town’s most abundant catch, the spot. Hampstead is host to the NC Spot Festival each September offering a two-day event filled with fun, food and entertainment.

This year, the 48th annual event will be held Sept. 24-25. Guests are treated to a true Southern fried spot dinner featuring two spot, fries, coleslaw, hushpuppies and sweet tea, served from 11am to 6pm on Saturday and from 11am to 5pm on Sunday.

Additional fun includes the Spot Festival Queen and Princess Pageant, rock climbing walls, carnival rides and art and craft vendors.

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to relax and enjoy live entertainment followed by late night fireworks at 9pm on Saturday. Admission is $3 per adult and children 12 and under are free. All proceeds go to Topsail schools and the Hampstead Volunteer Fire Department. For additional details, visit www.ncspotfestival. com. (cont. on page 14)

Seafood Celebration Sneads Ferry, a quaint seafood village, is most famous for its main catch, shrimp, and each year it brings in more than 385 tons of this popular crustacean. Annually, in an effort to celebrate and honor local fishermen and the seafood industry, the Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival attracts shrimp and seafood lovers from all over North Carolina and beyond.

The event, which was honored in 2010 with Onslow County Event of the Year honors, is preparing for its 42nd celebration. Hosted by the Sneads Ferry Community Center, the festival is a two-day affair, Aug. 12-13. Guests will not only enjoy a plethora of shrimp offerings, but also live entertainment, crowning of festival queens, a petting zoo, a street dance, fireworks, shrimp peeling contests, craft vendors, carnival rides and tons of additional opportunities to enjoy the bountiful harvest that puts this area on the map.

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Autumn on the Island There isn’t a better way to end the summer season and enter the crisp cool autumn salty air than at the 2012 Autumn with Topsail, held Oct. 20-21. This annual event is entering its 24th celebration. It is hosted each year on the third weekend in October by the Historical Society of Topsail Island. All proceeds go directly to maintaining the Missile Assembly Building and the Missiles and More Museum.

The event started in 1988 at the grounds of the Missile Assembly Building and continues to offer excellent local crafts, carnival rides, food, a wine and beer garden and other fun. The festival features a juried artists’ court with several regional

14 | www.nccoast.com

artists displaying and selling artwork. The 2012 entertainment lineup will feature local favorites, the Band of Oz and the Coastline Band.

Admission is $3 per day, per adult. Active duty military and children 12 and under are free. For additional details, or to register as a vendor, visit www.autumnwithtopsail.com.

New Year’s Dip Each New Year’s Day, the Dolphin Dip Foundation brings people together for a fun opportunity to take the challenge and hit the cool ocean waters for a refreshing way to embrace a new start.

The water is chilly, but it doesn’t seem to stop crowds in Surf City from taking a brave immersion in the frigid ocean waters of the Atlantic dur-

ing the annual Dolphin Dip Extravaganza.

The 11th annual Dip will be held at 11am on Jan. 1 at the Roland Avenue Beach Access in Surf City. The swim begins at noon. Participants are invited to wear creative costumes since the event includes an award ceremony rewarding those for being the best dressed.

Held in conjunction with the dip is the Dolphin Dip Dash 5K Beach Run. Packet pickup is at 10am and the sand run starts at noon on Dec. 31. Preregistration is $20 or $25 on the day of the event. Awards will be given to age groups and overall.

To register, or to obtain additional details, visit www.dolphindip.net.

Poplar Place to Be Hampstead is nuts about history and offers visitors an exceptional trip back in time at the Poplar Grove Plantation. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Poplar Grove Plantation offers residents and visitors with plenty of fun events throughout the year at its facility featuring one of the oldest existing peanut plantations in the state.

Since 1981, Poplar Grove has been frighten-

ing up its visitors with heart pounding hysteria for thrill seeking fans at one of its most popular events, the Halloween Festival, that offers fun for all ages. Entertainment includes a scary hay wagon ride through the forest, pony rides, Kiddie Funhouse, haunted barn, costume contest, fortune tellers, puppet show, as well as plenty of festive food, including funnel cakes and candy apples. The Halloween festival will open at 6pm on Friday nights, Oct. 12 and 19 and at 2pm on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13-14 and 20-21.

Poplar Grove Plantation offers several events throughout the year and if you are seeking locally grown or produced goods, its farmer’s market strives to promote local farm offerings, practices and products by serving the community from 8am to 1pm, every Wednesday, April through November. In addition to the fresh goods, market cooking classes are offered by Chef Alexis, featuring dishes that incorporate fresh, local ingredients.

Additional annual events include an Herb & Garden Fair, Classy Chassis Car Show, 5K fun run and Happy Trails Dog Exposition. For more details, visit www.poplargrove.com.

Topsail Coaster

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North Topsail Beach Located at the northern tip of Topsail Island, North Topsail Beach is a quiet residential community with a handful of resorts dotting the coastline. It’s the most secluded of the island’s small towns, providing families with miles of sandy beaches and colorful sunsets to enjoy and the solitude some prefer.

Recent census data revealed approximately 450 residences in the town and a population of less than 850. Annually those figures grow as summer visitors seek a peaceful vacation getaway.

On the sound side of the island, visitors are frequently greeted with some of the most picturesque marshland the area offers. A favorite spot for kayakers and nature enthusiasts, this is a great spot for bird watching and the

kayak or canoe provide visitors with an ideal vantage point. While on the water, be sure to visit the Permuda Island Coastal Reserve.

Artifacts found at the site date back to as early as 300 BC. Protected by the NC National Estuarine Research Reserve, the thin island in Stump Sound includes salt marshes and former agriculture fields gilded with broomsedge, dog fennel, asters, goldenrod and Mexican tea.

Visitors will find a variety of accommodations in North Topsail Beach, from several luxury oceanfront resorts, to condominiums, beach homes and a motel. In turn, a variMimi G. Daivs Photo ety of dining options can be found at the oceanfront resorts. For more information visit www.ntbnc.org.

Topsail Beach Besides the addition of private homes and small business, little has changed in Topsail Beach since roads were first constructed by the military in the 1940s. High-rise development is not allowed at this southern most reach of the island and conservation is encouraged, leaving miles of natural, untouched seashore and panoramic views from just about every vantage point.

About 580 residents call Topsail Beach home, however, the number of seasonal visitors continues to grow for this family-oriented community. With pristine beaches and a nostalgic charm that is hard to beat, it’s easy to see what brings families back year after year.

Topsail Beach has its own marina and boat launch, located at 912 S. Anderson Blvd. (910-328-2746).

A cost of $10 is charged for each launch from the

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ramp, however, visitors can purchase a weekly pass for $40 and a season pass for $100 (residents pay $50 for a season and $20 per week). Passes are sold at the marina when an attendant is on duty or at town hall during normal business hours.

The town is also home to the Missiles and More Museum, the authority on Topsail Island’s military history.

From a target range for the US Army to the home of the Operation Bumblebee missile tests by the US Navy, the military found varied uses for this remote island home. The museum brings the story to life through artifacts and clippings at the Assembly Building, home of the Historical Society of Topsail Island. To learn more about Topsail Beach, visit www.topsailbeach.org.

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Seeing the Sites Soundside Park Surf City offers one of the best ways to enjoy sound views at its Soundside Park.

Visitors can enjoy the elaborate boardwalks along the sound’s edge offering a fishing pier and several viewing decks. The park also features picnic shelters available for reservations for quant family gatherings, as well as an amphitheater available for reservation. This is the place to be for fireworks on the 4th and the park offers live entertainment throughout the summer.

Soundside is located on Roland Avenue beside the swing bridge. All ages will find something to enjoy at this relaxing and scenic park. Kids can have fun and meet new friends on the playground that features a climbing wall, climbing fish, multiple slides and swings. For an event schedule, visit www.surfcity. govoffice.com.

The Belle of Topsail With the slogan, “If it’s sunny and warm, we’re sailing,” you know that you have embarked upon a crew that knows how to enjoy the water. The Belle of Topsail is a 55-foot replica of an 1880s turn of the century riverboat that offers a unique experience to cruise the Intracoastal Waterway.

The peaceful cruise includes picturesque specialty and themed cruises, sunset dinner cruising, scenic nature tours and holiday cruises or guests can choose to reserve the riverboat to celebrate their special event onboard. The Belle is docked at the Beach House Marina, next to the swing bridge in Surf City. For cruise rates and offerings, visit www.belleoftopsail.com.

Thurston Art Gallery See the history and beauty of Sneads Ferry though art at the Thurston Art Gallery. Sherry Thurston is most famous for her work “Sneads Ferry Sneakers’,” but offers visitors a gallery that demonstrates how the fine artist has contributed to giving this small fishing village additional aesthetic appeal.

In business for more than 30 years, the Thurston Art Gallery also sells images representing surrounding areas, including Topsail Island, Hampstead, Wilmington and Jacksonville. Thurston also offers private and group art instruction for children and adults in the gallery located at 328 Peru Road, Sneads Ferry. For additional details, visit www.thurstonartgallery.com. (cont. on page 56)

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#3 The Towers of

Topsail Looking back on the Island’s Place in Military History

By Amanda Dagnino

R

arely do the towers go unnoticed by visitors – standing along the coastline like sentinels of an era long forgotten. Despite the battle scars from the elements endured, the towers remain erect, strong and sturdy, as conversation starters for history buffs or puzzling pieces of a mystery for first time visitors.

Topsail was relatively separated from the mainland until the 1940s and reachable only by those few locals who knew how to hop, skip and jump their way across the marsh during low tide, making it easy to assume that there is little history on Topsail Island. But, nothing could be farther from the truth – and its coastal watch towers are a vital reminder of the important role the site played in military history.

It was the US Army that first came to the North Carolina shore. In less than six months during World War II, the government constructed Camp Davis on the mainland at Holly Ridge, bringing the modest community with a population of 20 | www.nccoast.com

less than 50 to a max of about 70,000 in a few short years. Troops could conduct artillery training under the shroud of safety provided by the barren island. But the Army’s presence was short lived. By the end of the war, much of the base was dismantled and the troops were transferred.

The island’s potential was noted and it didn’t take long until the US Navy had the ideal use for the site.

On the sandy shores of what the Navy then called the “sand spit,” troops crafted and tested some 200 missiles from 1946 to 1948. In March of 1947, with the issuance of a press release, the Navy finally announced what it was doing on the island, although it failed to mention that the tests had been ongoing for months.

“Eight observation stations, located along the sand spit for tracking of units in flight, will house radar and photographic equipment for recording of performance data,” the release read.

Operation Bumblebee included the development and testing of the Navy’s first

Courtesy of David A. Stallman

Tower 1: 930 S. Anderson Blvd. (integrated into home) Tower 2: 1000 Block of S. Anderson (natural state) Tower 3: 3008 S. Shore Drive (previously altered, now natural) Tower 4: 1408 N. Anderson Blvd. (integrated into home) Tower 5: 332 N. Shore Drive (integrated into home) Tower 6: Site of former Ocean City Pier, North Topsail (previously altered, now natural) Tower 7: 3900 Island Drive (integrated into home) supersonic guided missile and the ramjet engine, the basis for today’s jet aircraft and warheads, including the Terrier, Tartar and Talos missile systems in use aboard Navy vessels today. Ranging in length from 3 to 13 feet in length, the missiles were constructed and tested along the otherwise peaceful 26-mile stretch of beach, according to Wilmington author David A. Stallman in “Echoes of Topsail,” now in its third printing.

“The missile site was principally made up of an Assembly Building, control tower, launching platform, bombproof room and eight photographic towers,” wrote Stallman, noting that most are still intact today.

The Assembly Building, now maintained by the Historical Society of Topsail, is home to the Missiles and More Museum and a plethora of artifacts and images from the missile tests. The control tower, a shorter version of the photographic towers, sits in a direct line between the Assembly Building and the

launch pad. While it previously had an observation deck, the tower’s roofline has been altered through the years. The launch pad can be found as the patio for the Jolly Roger Motel and the bombproof observation room is now part of the motel’s basement.

The towers, according to Stallman, were located in a precise scientific fashion to allow for the gathering of data and photographing missile tests. They were rigidly constructed to avoid any shifting or vibration within the structure and manned with photographic equipment that could record the flights over 10-20 miles at speeds of up to 1,500 mph. The towers were centered on “concrete slabs supported on creosoted piles driven to a minimum depth of 20 feet and 15 tons of bearing.”

Seven of the original eight structures remain, although a few have been merged into beachfront homes and are hard to recognize. While three of the residences are private, Tower 5, is a short-term rental (cont. on page 24) Topsail Coaster

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Surf city If the island of Topsail had a downtown center, Surf City would fill that role. Divided between Pender and Onslow counties, the town has one leg on the mainland and another on the island, bridging the gap and welcoming guests to this island paradise. It is home to one of the state’s remaining operational swing bridges, a fitting access to Topsail Island, which opens on the hour to allow boat traffic to pass. It’s also a great spot for scenic views of the sound below. With the NC Dept. of Transportation set to replace the bridge in coming years, there’s no doubt more people than ever will be jumping out of their cars for a final shot of the historic structure in action.

With about 2,000 residents, Surf City is the largest town in the area and offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Incorporated in 1949, the town’s

growth came as a direct result of the military’s presence in the region. With the growth, came a variety of amenities, including surf and gift shops, miniature golf, sound cruises, bike paths, public boat ramps, and always a favorite, Soundside Park. The active parks and recreation department provides a full calendar of family entertainment. Outdoor movies and concerts run throughout the summer and the NC Aquarium uses the site for outreach programs.

Don’t let Surf City’s collection of amenities fool you into thinking you’ve stumbled upon a beach metropolis. It is still a small, rural, oceanfront community. The town’s catchphrase, “Big enough to be competitive, but small enough to be happy,” just about says it all. For more information, visit surfcity.govoffice.com.

hampstead A haven for golfers, with four courses to choose from, Hampstead, north of Wilmington and just inland from Topsail Beach, continues to grow given its ideal best-of-bothworlds location. Close to the shopping, dining and culture the big city can provide, yet close to the preserved, oldfashioned feel of Topsail Island, Hampstead is a favorite for young families and retirees.

Around the state, it is best known as the home of the NC Spot Festival, the town’s largest annual event, which features more than 5,000 pounds of seafood donated by local businesses.

As the story goes, however, abundant seafood wasn’t always the case in Hampstead. It was President George Wash-

22 | www.nccoast.com

ington that is reputed to have given the town its name. Legend claims that on an overnight trip he planned to feast on the wild mullet caught in Topsail Sound. However, when he arrived, the mullet had not yet begun to run. The feast changed from mullet to ham instead, giving rise to “Hampstead.” A monument at the “Washington Oak” points to where the first president stayed overnight at a local tavern.

As Hampstead continues to preserve its historical place in the South, it has also grown to offer a variety of contemporary shops and restaurants of its own, creating a perfect blend of past and present. For more information visit hampsteadchamber.com.

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Mimi G. Davis photo

(cont. from page 21)

offered through Ward Realty, allowing guests the opportunity to spend the night in a piece of history.

Tower 8, which was located at the northern edge of the island, was destroyed in 1989 after becoming an eyesore and a gathering spot for vandals and rebel rousers. At least three deaths occurred on the site from falls from the top floor and the owner opted to demolish the structure when he realized it was impossible to keep trespassers off the property.

Now protected by the Historical Society of Topsail, the Missiles and More Muse24 | www.nccoast.com

Mimi G. Davis photo

#1

#2

#5 Ward Realty Photo

um is on the National Register of Historic Places, as is Tower 2, which is noted as being the most original of the remaining icons.

To learn more of the story, the museum is open from 2-4pm, Monday through Saturday, May through September, with reduced off-season hours. Admission is free. For additional details, call 910-3288663 or visit topsailmissilesmuseum.org.

Of course, grabbing a map and taking a jaunt around the island trying to find these towers can provide a unique and historic adventure for visitors of any age.

HOlly Ridge This quiet residential community at the intersection of Hwys 17 and 50 touts the motto “The Gateway to Topsail Island.” And, while that statement is certainly true, Holly Ridge’s role in bringing people to the island getaway runs far deeper than its convenient location on the way into town.

Located about 12 miles north of Hampstead, the small fishing and farming community caught the military’s attention in 1940, changing the landscape of the village virtually overnight. Land was contracted for a new military installation and Camp Davis was erected in about five months, including close to 1,000 structures, including barracks, mess halls, recreational buildings, post exchanges, a hospi-

tal, warehouses and plenty of roadways. Housing anti-aircraft regiments and barrage balloon troops, the population blossomed to 110,000 residents by 1943. For more than a decade, aircraft engines were tested, artillery was designed and rockets were fired as Holly Ridge carved its niche in the history books.

By 1948, however, the military installation was closed and in 2009, the recorded population was listed as having just about 1,000 residents.

With miles of sweeping beaches at its feet, however, and thousands who had been there in person to see them during their tour of duty, the town quickly took on its new role, providing a gateway to the Treasure Coast. For more information, visit www.townofhollyridge.com.

Sneads ferry Tucked into the woods on the mainland, this small Onslow County community is best known throughout the state for one thing – its shrimp.

Each August it celebrates its fishing industry and the species that has put it on the map with the Sneads Ferry’s Shrimp Festival, bringing visitors from around the state eager for a taste of the wild shrimp that is abundant in the region.

The state’s most recent statistics note that Sneads Ferry is responsible for about 385 tons of shrimp a year, making it the county’s largest seafood producer and giving this community of less than 3,000 residents a lot to celebrate.

The scenic waterside village brings more to the table than shrimp. Diners are treated to clams, scallops, oysters, mullet, spots, grouper, soft shell crab and more in this seafaring community with direct access to the open ocean.

Divided by water from Topsail Island’s northern edge, the town was settled around 1775 at the site

of a vital ferry operation which began in 1725, whisking travelers across the New River. On the northern side of the river, Robert Snead took over the ferry’s operation in 1760, and Lower Ferry, the community that eventually grew up around his business, was later renamed in his honor. The ferry operated through 1939 when the first bridge was constructed to join the banks. Today, a highrise bridge has permanently connected the two sides.

While native watermen still make their home in Sneads Ferry, it has also become a temporary home for many servicemen assigned to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. Constructed just north of the village during World War II, the base has brought an ever-changing population of active duty, dependent, retiree and civilian employees, who participate in the active Rotary Club, community theater and, of course, look forward to the annual Shrimp Festival. To learn more, visit sneadsferrynorthcarolina.com.

Topsail Coaster

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Topsail Island Piers Jolly Roger Fishing Pier 803 Ocean Road, Topsail Beach 910-328-4616 Seaview Fishing Pier 124 Fishing Pier Lane, North Topsail Beach 910-328-3172 Surf City Ocean Pier 112 Shore Drive, Surf City 910-328-3521

Island fishing

Surf City Soundside Park Pier Surf City Park, Surf City

L

ong lauded as a great place for fishing, Topsail offers several options when it comes to dropping a line. From piers and surfside to trolling on a charter boat, few things are better than casting a line on Topsail Island’s beautiful coastline. Anglers rave about the spring sea mullet and the Spanish mackerel, drum, flounder, cobia and spots as the water begins to warm.

Pier fishing was born with the construction of the Surf City Ocean Pier in 1948, now an icon in the community.

The love of the sport quickly caught on, leading to the construction of two additional ocean piers and more recently, the addition of the soundside pier in Surf City.

Fishermen who prefer a little solitude and peace, can easily find their place in the sand for a little surf fishing, by far, one of the most relaxing ways to participate. It’s not uncommon to find an angler resting back in a beach chair, his rod tucked into the sand by his feet as he patiently waits for a nibble. The payoff for surf

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fishing isn’t bad either, with catches often including flounder, trout, black drum, spot and pompano.

Those feeling a little more adventurous have their choice of more than 25 charter boat captains in the immediate area, with fishing trips that range from inshore jaunts that are calm enough for the kids to high seas adventures in the Gulf Stream. Most captains can cater a trip to your wants and needs, however, how good of a day you have is always up to the fish. Visit www.topsailcharterfishing.com for a list of charters available in the area.

Rules & Regs While fishing on any of Topsail’s three ocean fishing piers, anglers are not required to purchase a NC Fishing License. Each pier carries a blanket license to cover all fishing on the premises. A license is required, however, for the Surf City Ocean Pier.

All other fishermen over age 16 must purchase a permit from the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Those interested can pay with a credit card online at ncwildlife.org, call 1-8882HUNTFISH (1-888-248-6834) or view a list of locations throughout the Treasure Coast by visiting www.ncwildlife.org/Apps/WildlifeServiceAgent/Search.asp.

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The Aquarium Comes to Surf City

E

ach year, Surf City aims to shed light on the many things visitors can find during their stay at the beach and offers NC Aquarium Outreach Programs at the community center. Denise Rossy, Surf City Parks & Recreation, agrees this program has earned its right as one of the most popular aquatic educational opportunities the area offers.

“These programs are so important for people living here or visiting. They provide a fun way to learn how to take care of the area and why it is important to protect the many living ecosystems here. I am surprised how many people are not aware of what the NC Aquariums offer. They really are fantastic facilities and we notice both kids and adults are amazed with what they learn,” she said.

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“The aquarium brings live animals that you don’t normally see, like an alligator or shy salamander. Instructors teach about our surroundings, and you’ll quickly learn about the sounds you hear at night and discover that it’s a frog and learn which type. Many people enjoy collecting seashells, but don’t know the name or understand what creature once lived there or contributed its stunning design.

The classes are very enlightening,” said Rossy.

This summer, events include everything from live animal exhibits, engaging activities, costume play to hands on learning experiences. Each program is designed for families with children ages 4 and up. All courses are held on the mainland at the community center, off J.H. Batts Road, from 10:30-11:30am. Admission is free. The 2012 schedule includes: • July 11 – Turtle Tales • July 18 – Our Living Seashells • July 25 – Wild Wetlands • August 1 – Horseshoe Heroes • August 8 – Jammin’ Jellies • August 15 – Alligators To learn more, take a short trip to visit the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher located at 900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach. For additional details, visit www.ncaquariums.com.

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Turtle Hospital Expansion New Hope for Injured Turtles

By Melissa Jones

W

e live in a world where sea turtles have existed for centuries and to know that they are now in danger of extinction taught one local environmentalist a new and critical lesson in conservation. Jean Beasley started with the simple hope to assist turtles with their fascinating nesting journeys, however, she soon learned the need for a turtle hospital was necessary for their survival and opened the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle & Rescue Rehabilitation Center in 1997.

Throughout the years, her endeavors and passion have expanded. At first, there was no vision of a turtle hospital. The facility was created in memory of her daughter and their efforts to assure survival of sea turtles. After committing endless hours of dedication and care, her efforts received international attention. She was honored as Animal Planet’s 2007 Hero of the Year and was awarded $10,000. The funds are being used

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to open an expanded turtle hospital that will include a gift shop, additional internship opportunities for high school and college students and outreach programs for area schools.

Beasley said she believes the greatest outcome from this nomination and award is the increased awareness about sea turtles.

“When we started, there was not anything like this and there was not much coverage on turtles and how our current environment is harming their existence. There was no template to follow, we started from scratch, but with the publicity we were able to communicate a message that put turtles on the map combined with a lesson to save our planet and build a new larger facility,” she said.

The new building is still under construction and Beasley advised visitors to check the status of facility on its website, www.seaturtlehospital.org, before stopping by. The hospital, now located at 822 Carolina Ave., opens to visitors from 2-4pm, June 8 through the end of August, daily except for Wednesday and Sunday. Guests should anticipate crowds since this is one of the most popular attractions on the island, logging nearly 40,000 visitors during a summer season.

“We hope to be at the new facility in July 2012, but it is all contingent upon water treatment. The water treatment is very complicated portion and one of the most important,” she said. “The contractors are not responsible for the treatment and we rely on Aquatic Eco Systems, Inc., to provide us with the very necessary and expensive equipment. We basically have to build something similar to what a small town would use, a mini-water treatment facility that needs to be run and tested.”

The new indoor facility will feature a flow through water exchange system. Water will continually pump from the sound into the individual turtle tanks. The water

will then return to the sound via an overflow pipe and drain. During the winter months, the water will be pumped from the sound into an outdoor reservoir tank and heated to 75 degrees. Additional features will include fresh running hot and cold water, laundry facilities and an examination space with medical equipment and supplies. Such systems help to keep the turtles warm and clean throughout the winter months.

The hospital houses an average of 20 turtles at a time. Volunteers manage each turtle’s unique diets, personalities, laundry, medicines, vitamins and wound care regimes.

The center does not receive state or federal funding and operates on a modest budget of donations. Beasley’s commitment has influenced students to seek direction in wildlife management, conservation, veterinary medicine and related fields. Last year, she received nearly 120 applications for the college internship program for six spots. This year, the program will expand to include additional 12-week programs during fall and spring semesters, as well as provide housing for interns on the beach one block from the center.

Volunteer commitments remain strong throughout the year. In North Carolina, the nesting season runs mid-May through August and throughout that time, volunteers survey each of Topsail Island’s 26 miles of coastline every morning to identify sea turtle tracks and nests. The loggerhead sea turtle comes ashore to nest three to four times during a nesting year depositing an average of 120 eggs per nest. Eggs will incubate in the sand for about 60 days and after all the hatchlings have popped out of their eggs, they emerge from the nest together and adventure out towards the sea.

It is a long swim to maturity and an estimated one in 1,000 turtles survives to adulthood. With

such odds against the loggerhead, it is no wonder Beasley and others develop a passion to assist with sea turtle survivorship.

Beasley said, “I believe everybody can make a difference and everybody can do something.

Conservation is critical for every living creature, including us. The last time I checked, we didn’t have another planet to go to.”

Anyone who is interested in supporting the hospital can either sponsor a turtle patient through adoption or by sending a tax deductible donation to Sea Turtle Hospital, PO Box 2095, Surf City, NC 28445.

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Topsail Coaster

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Coastal Calendar June 1, 13, 15, 29, 30: Concert in the Park. 6-8pm. Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for a free family-friendly concert at Soundside Park. Performers this month are the Sea Pans (1st), US Air Force Rhythm in Blues Jazz Ensemble (13th), Lucia & Levi (15th), Honey Well (29th) and the Meteor Men (30th). Snacks and drinks are available for purchase. No alcohol is allowed. Details: 910-328-4887.

6, 20: Market Cooking Classes. 10am. Join Chef Alexis Fouros, author of “Feast for the Gods,” at Poplar Grove Plantation and learn how to cook with the Greek tradition of farm to table.

Price is $40 per person, including lunch. Reservations required. Details: www.feastforthegods.com.

Fri. 8: 2nd Friday Art Exhibit. 6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure in Hampstead for a themed art reception, “Pets and Animals.” Details: 910-330-4077.

8, 22: Movie in the Park.

Dusk. Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for an outside viewing of a family-friendly movie at Soundside Park. Movies this month include “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” and “Soul Surfer.” Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and other comfort items. No alcohol is allowed. Rain location is the Surf City Community Center.

Details: 910-328-4887.

Sat. 16: Father’s Day Youth Fishing Tournament. 1-2pm. The Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. invites fathers and sons to come enjoy an afternoon of fishing and fun. Sign up runs from 11am to noon and fishing is from 1-2pm.

Prizes for first place through 25th.

Details: 910-328-4887.

Mon. 18: NC Blueberry Festival. 9am-9pm. Celebrate in 34 | www.nccoast.com

Pender County, known as the first cultivated blueberry producer in the 1930s and currently ranked second in blueberry production in the entire state. This festival celebrates the historic, economic and cultural significance of blueberries in this region. This premier event attracts more than 30,000 people to enjoy entertainment, artisans, antique cars, food vendors and of course, blueberries at the Pender County Courthouse, 100 S. Wright St., Burgaw. Details: 910-259-9817.

18-22: Basic Skills Basketball Camp. 9am-3pm. Youth ages 10-15 will receive a high level of individualized instruction including fundamentals and skill development. Cost is $135 and includes a camp T-shirt, campers need water and lunch. Details: 910-328-5823.

Sat. 23: 12th annual Sneads Ferry Lions Club Pinfish Tournament. The Lions Club will lure anglers into the water again this year with its fishing tournament.

Proceeds benefit state and regional services for the blind. Details: 910327-2776.

25-29: She She’s Flip Floppers Camp. 10:30-Noon. Registration is required for this fun

tumbling summer camp program designed for children ages 8 and up. Cost is $45 per child and $35 for each additional sibling. Details: 910-650-6061.

Sat. 30: July 4th Parade.

5pm. Decorate your golf cart, bike or even yourself for this fun patriotic parade hosted by Lanier’s Campground, 1161 Spot Lane, Surf City. After the parade, stop by the gazebo for live entertainment provided by Red 67. Details: 910328-9431.

July 2-3, 5-6: She She’s Flip Floppers Camp. 10:30-Noon. Registration is required for this fun tumbling summer camp program designed for children ages 3 to 7.

Cost is $45 per child and $35 for each additional sibling. Details: 910-650-6061.

3, 7, 13, 27: Concert in the Park. 6-8pm. Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for a free family-friendly concert. Performers this month are Mark Roberts & Breeze (3rd), Fryd Flounder (7th), Uncle Hairy (13th) and Camouflage (27th). Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

No alcohol is allowed. Details: 910-328-4887.

Wed. 4: Surf City Independence Day Celebration. 6pm.

Celebrate the 4th at Soundside Park with a concert by Mark Roberts & Breeze and a fireworks display at 9pm. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. A free shuttle service will be provided.

Details: 910-328-4131.

Four Towns Fireworks. Dusk.

Spectators will gather at Holly Ridge Municipal Park for children’s rides, concessions and fireworks.

Details: 910-329-7081.

6, 20: Movie in the Park.

Dusk. Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for an outside viewing of a family-friendly movie at Soundside Park. Movies this month include “Dolphin Tale” and “Adventures Tin Tin.” Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and other comfort items. No alcohol is allowed. Rain location is the Surf City Community Center.

Details: 910-328-4887.

Sat. 7: Loose Change Performs. 6-10pm. Enjoy live entertainment and relax at the gazebo at Lanier’s Campground, 1161 Spot Lane. Details: 910-328-9431.

11, 18, 25: Aquarium Outreach Program. 10:30-11:30am.

Programs are designed for families with children age 4 and up at the Surf City Community Center, 201 Community Center Drive. Enjoy live animals, engaging activities, costumes, props and handson learning to foster the naturalist in everyone. Schedule includes “Turtle Tales” (11th), “Our Living Seashells” (18th) and “Wild Wetlands” (25th). Details: 910328-4887.

11, 25: Market Cooking Classes. 10am. Join Chef Alexis Fouros, author of “Feast for the Gods,” at Poplar Grove Plantation in the Cultural Arts Center Barn and learn how to cook with the Greek tradition of farm to table.

Price is $40 per person including lunch. Reservations required. Details: www.feastforthegods.com.

Fri. 13: 2nd Friday Art Exhibit. 6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure, 22527 Hwy 17 N, Hampstead, for its themed art reception, “Coast.” Details: 910330-4077.

Tues. 14: Classy Chassis Car Show. 9am-4pm. Selected as a top 20 event by the Southeast Tourism Society, featuring more than 180 pristine vintage vehicles and antique tractors at Poplar Grove Plantation. The Country Flea Market will be held in conjunction with this event. Other activities include a 50/50 raffle, discounted tours, food, music and a live broadcast with Brian White & Sunny from 104.5FM. Admission is a $5 donation. Details: www.poplargrove.com.

16-20: Basketball Guard Camp. 1-3pm. Youth ages 10-15 will receive a high level of individualized instruction including fundamentals and skill development.

Cost is $75 and includes a camp T-shirt. Details: 910-328-5823. (cont. on page 36) Topsail Coaster

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Coastal Calendar

(cont. from page 35) and learn how to cook with the Greek tradition of farm to table.

Price is $40 per person including lunch. Reservations required. Details: www.feastforthegods.com.

16-18: NC Ducks Unlimited State Convention. Hosted by the Hilton Riverside, along downtown Wilmington’s historic “Riverwalk,” this convention will celebrate Ducks Unlimited’s 75th anniversary. Activities will include golf shooting, tours, Greenwings and ladies’ outings, dinner on the battleship, decoy and art competitions, live entertainment and good food. Details: www.ncducks.org/stateconvention.

August 1, 8, 15: Aquarium Outreach Program. 10:30-11:30am.

Programs are designed for families with children age 4 and up at the Surf City Community Center, 201 Community Center Drive. Enjoy live animals, engaging activities, costumes, props and hands-on learning to foster the naturalist in everyone. Schedule includes “Horseshoe Heroes” (1st), “Jammin’ Jellies” (8th) and “Alligators” (15th). Details: 910-328-4887.

3, 17, 31: Movie in the Park.

Dusk. Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for an outside viewing of a family-friendly movie at Soundside Park. Movies this month include “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “School of Rock” and “Big Miracle.” Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and other comfort items. No alcohol is allowed. Rain location is the Surf City Community Center. Details: 910-328-4887.

Fri. 10: 2nd Friday Art Exhibit. 6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure, 22527 Hwy 17 N, Hampstead, for its themed art reception, “Music,” including live entertainment and a free raffle.

Cost is $2. Details: 910-330-4077.

36 | www.nccoast.com

10, 24: Concert in the Park.

6-8pm. Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for a free familyfriendly concert. Performers this month are Camo Kids (10th) and Pamlico Joe & Clean Water Flow (24th). Snacks and drinks are available for purchase. No alcohol is allowed. Details: 910-328-4887.

11-12: Sneads Ferry Shrimp Festival. Celebrating its 42nd anniversary in 2012, the Shrimp Festival is a two-day affair that celebrates the area’s bountiful seafood with a fun party for the entire family. A Shrimp Ball is held one week prior to the event. Also watch for the antique car show, live music, crafts, food and the always fun trash can decorating competition.

Details: 910-329-4446.

13-17: She She’s Flip Floppers Camp. 10:30-Noon. Registration is required for this fun tumbling summer camp program designed for children age 8 and up. Cost is $45 per child and $35 for each additional sibling. Details: 910-650-6061.

15, 29: Market Cooking Classes. 10am. Join Chef Alexis Fouros, author of “Feast for the Gods,” at Poplar Grove Plantation in the Cultural Arts Center Barn

18-19: 20th Sneads Ferry King Mackerel Tournament.

Sponsored by the Sneads Ferry Rotary Club, anglers will vie for nearly $80,000 in cash prizes during this Southern Kingfish Association sanctioned event. Details: kmtdirector@sneadsferryrotary.com.

20-24: Basic Skills Basketball Camp. 9am-3pm. Youth ages 1015 will receive a high level of individualized instruction including fundamentals and skill development. Cost is $135 and includes a camp T-shirt. Campers need to pack a lunch and bring water. Details: 910-328-5823.

September Fri. 7: Barbeque Cook-off.

4pm. Enter your barbeque best or buy a dinner plate for $7 at Soundside Park, Surf City. Cook-off entry fee is $25 and deadline to enter is Wed., Sept 5. Details: 910-3284887.

Concert in the Park. 6-8pm.

Join the Surf City Parks and Recreation Dept. for a free family-friendly concert. Performers this month are The Mako Band. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

No alcohol is allowed. Details: 910-328-4887.

12, 26: Market Cooking Classes. 10am. Join Chef Alexis Fouros, author of “Feast for the Gods,” at Poplar Grove Plantation in the Cultural Arts Center Barn and learn how to cook with the Greek tradition of farm to table.

Price is $40 per person including lunch. Reservations required. Details: www.feastforthegods.com.

Fri. 14: 2nd Friday Art Exhibit. 6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure, 22527 Hwy 17 N, Hampstead, for an adult student art show. Details: 910-330-4077.

Sat. 18: Tasting with Topsail. This wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres reception sponsored by the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism is held annually at the Assembly Building in Topsail Beach. Details: 910-3294446.

Sat. 22: Autumn 5K and Fun Run. 8am.

Run along the scenic Abbey Nature Preserve as Poplar Grove hosts this 2nd annual running event. Awards are given for the top three finishers in each age category. Packet pickup is from 4-7pm on Friday, Sept. 21 at the cultural arts center and from 7-7:45am before race start. No pets, bikes or strollers. Registration: www.active. com.

24-25: 48th annual Spot Festival. Hampstead is home to the NC Spot Festival. Enjoy music, games, a pageant, vendors and a traditional Southern spot meal, served from 11am to 6pm, Saturday and 11am to 5pm, Sunday.

Fireworks start at 9pm on Saturday, and include a performance by Kevin Lee until 11pm. Admission is $3 for adults, children 12 and under are free. All proceeds go to Topsail schools and the Hampstead Volunteer Fire Department. Details: www.ncspotfestival.com. (cont. on page 38)

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Coastal Calendar Sat. 29: NC Muscadine Festival. 10am-7pm. Celebrate the nation’s first cultivated grape and state fruit at the Kenansville Fairgrounds. Sample more than 150 wines and enjoy tailgating with friends as you listen to live entertainment featuring the Band of Oz, Classic Collection and the Entertainers. Visitors can also partake in an amateur wine making and cooking contests. Tickets are $20 per person in advance or $25 at the gate and include a commemorative wine glass, ages 6-20 are $5 and children 5 and under are free.

Tailgating packages are available.

No coolers or pets. Details: www. muscadineharvfestfestival.com.

October Fri. 12: 2nd Friday Art Exhibit. 6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure, 22527 Hwy 17 N, Hampstead, for its featured solo artist, J. Clark. Details: 910-3304077.

19-21: Poplar Grove Plantation’s Halloween Festival. Fans of fearless thrills and friendly fun are invited to visit the haunted barn, enjoy rides, a haunted hayride, games, food, pony rides, non-scary funhouse, fortune tellers, costume contests and more at the Poplar Grove Plantation. Free admission, activity prices vary. Details: 252-686-9518.

(cont. from page 37)

diest dog costume contest, demonstrations, prizes and a variety of vendors offer pet products. Details: 910-696-9518 ext. 26.

the Christmas season. Santa will be there to welcome the youngsters and cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

Wed. 31: Market Cooking Classes. 10am. Join Chef Alexis Fouros, author of “Feast for the Gods,” at Poplar Grove Plantation in the Cultural Arts Center Barn and learn how to cook with the Greek tradition of farm to table.

Price is $40 per person including lunch. Reservations required. Details: www.feastforthegods.com.

Sat. 24: Topsail Tree Lighting. 6pm. The town of Topsail Beach welcomes the seasons with the lighting of the official town tree at 820 S. Anderson Blvd. Details: 910-328-5841.

November Wed. 7: Market Cooking Classes. 10am. Join Chef Alexis Fouros, author of “Feast for the Gods,” at Poplar Grove Plantation in the Cultural Arts Center Barn and learn how to cook with the Greek tradition of farm to table.

Price is $40 per person including lunch. Reservations required. Details: www.feastforthegods.com.

Sat. 20-21: Autumn with Topsail. 7:30am-8:30pm. Enjoy the autumn air and its salty sea breeze at this Topsail Island Beach Music Festival featuring the Band of Oz, Coastline Band and several other live entertainers. Festival grounds are held each year across the Assembly Building on Channel Blvd. and Flake Ave. Details: www. autmnwithtopsail.com.

Fri. 9: 2nd Friday Art Exhibit. 6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure, 22527 Hwy 17 N, Hampstead, for a quilters show and fiber and wearable art. Details: 910330-4077.

Sun. 28: Happy Trails Dog Expo. Bring your furry friends for an afternoon of fun at Poplar Grove Plantation. Events include the dan-

Sat. 17: Surf City Tree Lighting. 6pm. Join the town of Surf City at Soundside Park as it lights its holiday tree and kicks off

38 | www.nccoast.com

Tues. 27: Topsail Island Flotilla. Add an island vibe to your holiday season and enjoy this annual parade featuring decorated and lighted boats as they sail down the Intracoastal Waterway. Boats will start in Surf City at the bridge and continue to the south end of Topsail Beach. Best views are at the Assembly Building, any sound dock or beach and Soundside Park.

Details: 910-329-4446.

Sat. 24: Festival of Lights.

6pm. Enjoy one of the areas greatest holiday traditions at Mike’s Tree Farm, 1600 Haw Branch Road, Beulaville. Sit with family and friends on a lighted hayride through the farm and view festive Christmas lights, decorations, scenes and a live Nativity. The cost is $8 per person, age 5 and up. The event is daily through December 23. Details: 910-324-3422. (cont. on page 59)

Lunch & Dinner Menus Oceanfront dining deck, full bar, elevator access, fish tacos, stuffed burgers, fresh seafood and professional service are just some of the features that will bring you back to Daddy Mac’s!

Topsail Coaster

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Local Flavor

Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, pizza, pasta, a great steak or a lunchtime sandwich, the Topsail area offers a treasure trove of wonderful restaurants from which to choose. The following restaurants are listed in alphabetical order.

Call to verify hours, especially during the offseason. Use locator numbers in bold following each business’s name with area map on pages 52-53.

The Beach Shop and Grill (14), 701 S. Anderson Blvd., serves breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week in season. Try our wonderful wraps, gourmet sandwiches and salads for lunch as well as our award-winning Shrimp and Grits for dinner. Fresh local fish served daily, handmade desserts and our famous Key Lime Pie is a must!

After your delicious meal, shop next door in our gift shop carrying Life is Good and our own brand of Beachdog wear, 910328-6501.

Bella Luna (34), Oceanfront Italian Restaurant, 790 New River Inlet Road, North Topsail Beach, serving lunch & dinner, enjoy your favorite pastas, pizzas & other Italian favorites, Cabana bar, live entertainment, call us for the perfect location & food for your private party or wedding event, 910-328-0504.

Breezeway Motel & Restaurant (24), 636 Channel Blvd., Topsail Beach, South End, Topsail Island’s landmark seafood restaurant since 1949, open for dinner spring, summer & fall, delicious seafood & spectacular sunsets, park or dock & dine on the waterfront, beer & wine permits, private parties, meetings, on-site catering, 910-328-7751, breezewaymotel.com.

Bumblebee Market (26), 513 Roland Ave., Surf City, located next to the swing bridge in the old post office, specializing in gourmet treats &drinks, serving cappuccino, iced lattes, locally roasted coffee, gourmet treats, bubble tea (you haven’t enjoyed summer if you haven’t tried it) & vast amounts of chocolate; picnic baskets for the beach or park are offered for enjoyable sunny days, there are gifts for yourself, family, friends & pets, 910-328-2105.

Crabby Mike’s (3), 121 S. Topsail Drive, Surf City, featuring chef-crafted lunch & dinner specials including seafood, ribs, steaks, chicken & back by popular demand: Crabby Mike’s breakfast. Full ABC permit beginning in May. Open 7am-9pm, closed Mon. Call for offseason hours, 910-328-4331. (cont. on page 42)

40 | www.nccoast.com

Southern Hospitality On The Sound Since 1949

restaurant - catering - special events dock - motel - internet access - pool The Breezeway Restaurant - Enjoy an unforgettable soundside sunset while dining waterfront at the Breezeway. We’ve been serving the traditional and delectable fare of fried seafood and hushpuppies to generations, while also offering diverse menu options for every discerning palate in our casual and family-friendly dining atmosphere. Featuring: Fresh Local Seafood (Fried, Broiled, Steamed and Grilled), Daily Specials, Pasta Dishes, Salads, Kids Menu, Catering, Dine in or Carry Out, Reunions, Receptions and other Special Events.

The Breezeway Motel - Found only steps away from the restaurant and on the south end of Topsail Island is the family owned and operated Breezeway Motel offering accomodations to suit any need: Internet Access, Non-Smoking Rooms, Pet Friendly, Daily Maid Service, Seasonal Pool, Soundside Dock and Nearby Ocean Access.

636 Channel Blvd., Topsail Beach restaurant 910-328-4302 motel 910-328-7751 / 800-548-4694 Visit breezewaymotel.com to view the full menu and our calendar of special events.

Topsail Coaster

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Local Flavor

(cont. from page 40)

Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille (7), 108 N. Shore Drive, Surf City, is preparing crab cakes, ribs, seafood, steaks, pasta and more. Enjoy the oceanfront dining deck, a full bar, elevator access and impeccable service. Open at 11am for lunch, 5pm for dinner and 9am for Sunday brunch. Call 910328-5577 or visit www.bluemainsail.com/daddymacs.

Home Port Restaurant & Pub (28), 718 S. Anderson Blvd., Topsail Beach, “Definitely & Deliciously Italian,” this restaurant & pub offers great food such as seafood, steak, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, salads & pizza, karaoke is held on Friday nights & live entertainment on Saturday nights, 910-328-7000.

Luna Pops (32), 206 N. Topsail Drive, Topsail Beach, one block north of the traffic light near the New York Corner Deli, handmade frozen treats that have out of this world flavor, we offer 20 mouth watering flavors of gourmet, small-batch frozen pops made with fresh fruit & other sea-

Serving !"#$%&'!%()*($+*$%),*-('!

sonal ingredients, 910-328-1517, lunapops.com.

Mainsail Restaurant (5), 404 Roland Ave., Surf City (look for the big blue sail), offers fresh island seafood, steaks, pastas & sandwiches, as well as a kids’ menu, homemade desserts & a full service bar; reservations & takeout orders accepted, 910-328-0010. Also, join us for drinks after dinner in the Commodore Room Martini Bar & Lounge. Call for entertainment schedule, 910328-2124.

Shrimp Shack, Etc (21), 1342 Hwy 210, Sneads Ferry, “We catch ‘em, you cook ‘em” with fresh shrimp, fish, snow crab, king crab, scallops, mussels, clams, crab meat, soft crabs, craw fish, & lobster tail. Also carrying hushpuppies, onion rings, & rice mixes. Tasty beverages accompany the fresh food with various kinds of champagnes, over 400 types of wine and more than 100 types of beer from around the world. Open 7 days a week from 10am-6pm, 910-327-2789.

Dinner with Entrees starting at $12.99

Located at Villa Capriani Resort 790 New River Inlet Road, North Topasail Beach

910.328.0504

Cabana Bar | Live Entertainment | Private Parties | Weddings | Open Daily 42 | www.nccoast.com

Use locator numbers in bold following each business’s name with area map on pages 52-53.

Good Buys

Beach Furniture Outfitters, Inc. (22), 520 North New River Drive, Surf City, offers one stop shopping that saves time & money; visit our showroom for carpet, vinyl, bedding & accessories, furniture for any room; complete household packages are our specialty; we take the hassle out of furnishing your house, condo or apartment; open year-round 9am –5pm, stop by or call 910-328-4181, www.beachfurnitureoutfittersinc.com.

Bert’s Surf Shop (27), Hwy 210, Surf City, offers best selection of surfboards, gear & apparel, featuring brand names like D.C., Quiksilver, Teva, DSO, Billabong, Rusty & Roxy; lowest prices, open year-round, 910-328-1010, www. bertsurfshop.com.

DDT Furniture Outlet (20), from the coastline to the cityscape, DDT can decorate your home; whether you have a beach rental or stately home, DDT can help you create just the right look; we carry statuaries, outdoor wicker, souvenirs to remember your trip to the coast, wicker & upholstered furniture for every room, plus unique one-of-a-kind items; stop by & see us on the way to the beach or the city (Hwy 17N between Hampstead & Holly Ridge); shop our outlet prices! 877-954-6367 or 910-329-0160, www.ddtoutlet.com.

D’s Interior Design (25), 834 Hwy 210, Sneads Ferry, offers interior design services and unique furniture, accessories, lamps and more.

Browse through the spacious showroom to find everything you’ll need for decorating, gift giving, bed making and accessorizing. Call 910-327-2166 or visit www.dsinteriordesign.net.

Gift Basket (12), 702 S. Anderson Blvd., located between mile marker 1 & 2 in Topsail Beach.

The Gift Basket has a fine selection of 14K &

sterling silver jewelry and carries the largest selection of tide clocks & weather instruments in the surrounding area; collectibles & unique gift items found here too. Ask about the Topsail Island Destination Bracelet. Open in season10am5pm, Mon.-Sat., 11:30am-3:30pm, Sun., online at www.topsailgiftbasket.com or tideandweather. com, 910-328-7111, 800-424-7245.

Harris Teeter (1), Surf City Crossing, 203 Alston Blvd., Hampstead, taking pride in offering the best quality and selection available when it comes to fresh food and all vacation necessities. Count on Harris Teeter to meet your needs, (cont. on page 44) Topsail Coaster

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Good Buys

(cont. from page 43)

whether you’re stocking up your home, your vacation rental or are searching for a quick snack from the deli, 24 hours a day, 910-329-0711, www.harristeeter.com.

Island Outfitters (13), The Fishing Village, 409 Roland Ave., Surf City Causeway, men’s & women’s island wear; better line of sportswear & shoes such as Columbia Wear, Guy Harvey, Bimini-Bay & Sperry Topsider; as well as little bitty pretty things for your little ones; 910-328-1887.

Mia’s Marketplace (9), 14061 Hwy 50/210, Surf City, carries gifts for all occasions. Find home décor, jewelry, fashions, hand-crafted items by local artists, specialty gifts for babies and men.

Now carrying Mudpie, Elly Preston, Bella Taylor, Cat Studio, Escapada, Dream Dance and more.

Visit Pam’s Pantry for gourmet mixes, treats, specialty candy and Luna Pops. Call 910-803-0316 or visit miasoftopsailisland.com.

Mystic Treasures Jewelry (3), 121 S. Topsail Drive, Surf City, features the best in custom jewelry from local designer Tommy J., pieces from award-winning designers across the country, plus the Topsail Island “TI” Bracelets & the Hooked on Topsail Island Bracelets. Now providing stateof-the-art custom design & redesign work with CAD/CAM. Where every piece is as unique as its owner & your imagination becomes reality, www.mystictreasures.nc.com, 910-328-6300.

Quarter Moon Books & Gifts (37), 708 S. Anderson Blvd., Topsail Beach offers reading selections for every interest including bestsellers, new releases, regional, nature & a treasure trove of children’s books; used books, extensive selection of greeting cards, stationery, journals & enchanting gifts; try our gourmet coffee, espresso, cappuccino or smoothie while browsing, open daily, public internet access, 910-328-4969, 800-6979134, www.quartermoonbooks.com.

The Historic

Beach Shop & Grill

A Topsail Tradition Since 1957

“Where the Locals like to Eat” Serving ...

Call for hours

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner All ABC permits • Extensive Wine list

701 South Anderson Blvd., Topsail Beach | beachshopandgrill.com | 910-328-6501 44 | www.nccoast.com

Shark Attack Souvenir & Gift Shop (35), 1295 Hwy 210, Sneads Ferry, 125 N. Topsail Dr., Surf City, souvenir & gift shop with live shark tank, beach gear, clothing & accessories (see ads for coupons), 910-327-1322.

Tsunami Surf Shop (2), 1288 Old Folkstone Road, Sneads Ferry. Welcome to the largest surf shop on the East Coast, now at a new location offering brands such as Oakley, Costa Del Mar, Reef, Quiksilver, Billabong, Rainbow, Sanuk, Volcom, Vonzipper, Fox and more. Open 7 days a week, 9am-10pm (see ad for 10 percent coupon), 910-741-0481.

Topsail Art Gallery & Frame Shop (3), 121 S. Topsail Drive (located on premises with Crabby Mike’s Restaurant & Mystic Treasures Jewelry), Surf City, featuring the talents & original creations of numerous local artists; prints of many regional & national artists; island photography, custom framing, original artwork, and nautical gifts, topsailart.com, 910-328-2138.

Topsail Island Trading Company (29), 201 N. New River Drive, Surf City, freshly made cream & butter fudge is made right in front of your eyes!

Our fudge makes an excellent gift, available in over 50 flavors including sucrose-free flavors. We ship anywhere, all year long. Distinctive selection of jewelry & other fine gifts, 910-328-1905, 800762-1257, www.topsailtrading.com.

Turtle Factory Gift Shop (11), 1982 Hwy 172, Suite H, Sneads Ferry offers customized orders with variety of local artists, unique crafts, candles & lots of turtles. A complete line of life-size fish & turtle replicas, call for fluctuating hours, theturtlefactory.com, 910-327-3244.

Wings (8), 106A N. New River Dr., Surf City, offers all you need to reach the beach, including beachwear, suntan lotion, skimboards, beach toys for children, gifts & more, see ad for coupons, 910-328-5900.

Topsail Coaster

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The True

Treasure Coast W

hile many of Topsail Island’s treasures are apparent as soon as you cross the bridge into Surf City, there are those that are tucked away from the mainland and hidden just out of sight. Kayaks and boats provide more than just an opportunity for a day of thrills in the water – they are also a great way to get up close and personal with the history and nature surrounding this island home.

Evidence of some of the region’s oldest residents can be found on Permuda Island, a 1.5-mile sliver of land that sits in Stump Sound adjacent to North Topsail Beach.

Archaeological evidence here dates back to about 300 BC amidst the Holocene and Pleistocene sands that make up the island.

Thick deposits of shell refuse in the waters surrounding the island led the NC National Estuarine Research Reserve, which preserves the space, to conclude that prehistoric Native Americans found access to a wide variety of shellfish on the land, including oysters, clams, scallops, crabs and whelks.

First deeded in the mid-1700s, the former 46 | www.nccoast.com

farmland in the central part of the island is now covered in dog fennel, goldenrods, broomsedge and asters, while the waters around the island are used as nursery grounds for a variety of species. A great spot for bird watching, the protected estuary is home to egrets, herons, black skimmers, sandpipers, willetts and more. What may be most eye catching, however, are the clusters of stunted trees and shrubs, hence the name Stump Sound. Naturists will recognize yaupon, silverling, live oak, red cedar and others amidst what once may have been a bountiful maritime forest.

The island is reachable only by boat or kayak and is managed by the NC Coastal Reserve, which protects more than 41,000 acres of estuaries, including Buxton Woods, Currituck Banks and the Rachel Carson Reserve. Guests should be reminded that nothing can be removed from the island, and they should plan on removing all items they bring with them in order to aid in its ongoing preservation. To learn more about the site, visit www.nccoastalreserve.net.

Only on

Topsail Discover the unique shops filled with all Topsail’s treasures...

FREE 1/4 lb of Fudge

(Chocolate or Vanilla) with purchase over $15 Must present coupon at time of purchase. 1 coupon per family per visit.

Expires 12/31/2012 www.topsailtrading.com 201 N. New River Drive, Surf City Call for Hours 910-328-1905

DDT

FREE TOPSAIL ISLAND COIN! Must Present Coupon.

Expires 12/31/2012 www.topsailgiftbasket.com 702 South Anderson Blvd., Topsail Beach Call for Hours 910-328-7111 Located Between Mile Marker 1 & 2

Outlet

Where the Extraordinary, is Ordinary !

21740 Highway 17 North • Hampstead, NC South of Holly Ridge, North of Hampstead

1-877-954-6367 • 910-329-0160 Topsail Coaster

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SHARK ATTACK

FREE Beach Bag with $15 purchase or more!

125 N. Topsail Drive, Surf City • 910-328-1346

One coupon per person. One offer per coupon.

While supplies last. Exp. 1/31/13

SKIM BOARD

One coupon per person. One offer per coupon. While supplies last. Exp. 1/31/13

HERMIT CRAB with cage purchase

Must present coupon. Not valid with any other discounts or specials. Exp. 1/31/13

SHARK TOOTH NECKLACE One coupon per person. One offer per coupon. While supplies last. Exp. 1/31/13

$3.99

One coupon per person. One offer per coupon. While supplies last. Exp. 1/31/13

20%

OFF

ALL

Suntan Lotion

$7.99 FREE

99¢ BODY BOARD WITH LEASH While supplies last.

***Sale Items Excluded*** GOOD AT ALL SHARK ATTACK LOCATIONS!

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

48 | www.nccoast.com

The Best For Less SHARK ATTACK LIVE...

sHARK

LARGEST SHARK SHARK IN IN THE THE WORLD! WORLD! LARGEST 1295 1295 Highway Highway 210, 210,Sneads Sneads Ferry Ferry •• 910-327-1222 910-327-1222

BEACH CHAIR One coupon per person. One offer per coupon. While supplies last. Exp. 1/31/13

FREE MUG with purchase of $15 or more

ONE-MAN BOAT 29”x45” CANVAS RAFT

Exp. 1/31/13

3 FOR $10 One coupon per person. One offer per coupon. While supplies last. Exp. 1/31/13

reg. $14.99

$7.99 reg. $9.99

$6.99

SALE

Exp. 1/31/13

One coupon per person. One offer per coupon. While supplies last.

Exp. 1/31/13

SALE

BEACH TOWELS

$8.99

***Sale Items Excluded*** GOOD AT ALL SHARK ATTACK LOCATIONS!

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

Topsail Coaster

| 49

The Perfect Stay Use locator numbers in bold following each business’s name with area map on pages 52-53.

Breezeway Motel & Restaurant (24), 636 Channel Blvd., Topsail Beach, South End, Topsail Island’s landmark seafood restaurant since 1949, open for dinner spring, summer & fall, delicious seafood & spectacular sunsets, park or dock & dine on the waterfront, beer & wine permits, private parties, meetings, on-site catering, 910-328-7751, breezewaymotel.com.

Coldwell Banker Coastline Realty (19), 965 Old Folkstone Rd., Suite 108, Sneads Ferry, your information source for luxury living on the Carolina coast, featuring sales & rentals of condominiums, townhomes, single family residences, on the ocean, bay or fairway. Look for us on the web at cbcoastline.com or email us at rentals@cbcoastline. com. For a free brochure call 800-497-5463 or 910-327-7711.

Island Real Estate (13), 405 Roland Ave., Surf City, matches vacationers with the perfect beach house, whether you’re looking for an investment or a place to call home base during a family vacation. Stop by to see why they’re one of the best kept secrets on the island. Call 800-622-6886 or visit www.topsailvacation.com to browse through vacation rentals.

Treasure Realty, Inc. (15), 1950 Hwy 172, Suite R, conveniently located at the intersections of Hwys 210 & 172 behind Hardees in Sneads Ferry … LOOK FOR THE PARROT! Proud to be for 17 years running the “TOP PRODUCING”

50 | www.nccoast.com

Lauren Michels Photo

firm of the decade in North Topsail & Sneads Ferry! With 123 years combined experience in sales & rentals, we know what our customers are looking for & help them find it. We continue to be #1 because we make our customers #1. Look for us on the web at treasurerealty.com or email richard@treasurerealty.com, 910-327-4444, 800762-3961.

Ward Realty Corp. (30), on Hwy 50 in Surf City, original developers of Topsail Island, provides real estate sales, vacation rentals, cottage construction, 800-782-6216, 910-328-3221. Visit www.wardrealty.com to find specials or search the extensive database of available rental properties.

Sea & Do Boating, Fishing & Tours On Topsail Island you can fish two inlets, soundside coves and creeks, the Intracoastal Waterway, the surf or the Gulf Stream. Charter boat services are always ready to take you out for the exciting challenge of catching king mackerel, dolphin, tuna, snapper, grouper and cobia.

The Belle of Topsail (31), 111 N. New River Drive, Surf City, allows visitors to cruise the Intracoastal Waterway and sound in turn-of-thecentury style. This 55-foot replica of an 1880s riverboat offers a unique approach to the sights of Topsail. Features scenic and nature tours, themed dinner cruises, holiday cruises, sunset and captain’s party cruises. The vessel is available for corporate events, private parties, weddings and rehearsal dinners. Call 910-328-1621 or visit www.belleoftopsail.com.

East Coast Sports (13), The Fishing Village, 409 Roland Ave., Surf City Causeway, largest selection of fishing tackle on island; Penn, Shimano, “From Pinfish to Billfish,” etc.; all your sporting goods & fishing needs, the Medlin family, 910-328-1887, eastcoastsports.com.

Island Marine Supply (13), The Fishing Village, 409 Roland Ave., Surf City, the most complete tackle shop on the coast with boat & trailer needs, watersports & safety equipment, fishing charters booked; Chris or Doug, 910-328-1887.

Topsail Charter Fishing (13), located in The Fishing Village, 409 Roland Ave, Surf City, is ready to help you plan the fishing adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re new to Topsail Island, or you come back year after year, spending a day on the water makes the vacation complete.

Offshore and inshore fishing trips are available as well as family cruises. Kayak and boat rentals offered on-site. Call 910-358-4912 or visit www. topsailcharterfishing.com.

Exhibits & Museums Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center, currently located directly behind Topsail Beach Town Hall before transitioning to a new Surf City location in late July or early August, is a site dedicated to caring for sick and injured turtles. The new location on J.H. Batts

Use locator numbers in bold following each business’s name with area map on pages 52-53.

Mimi G. Davis Photo

Road (next to the Surf City Community Center), is a new $1.4 million facility offering an inside glimpse at what goes into caring for sea turtles.

Open daily from 2-4pm, except for Wednesdays and Sundays, admission is required at the new facility and donations are welcome, 910-328-3377, www.seaturtlehospital.org.

Missiles and More Museum is open 2-4pm, closed Wednesday and Sunday, April through mid-Oct.; at other times by appointment (800626-2780 or 910-329-4446). Located in the Assembly Building, 720 Channel Blvd., soundside, Topsail Beach. Video, oral histories, artifacts & exhibits including Indian artifacts, pirate, World War II displays & more, www.topsailmissilesmuseum.org.

Topsail Coaster

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VIEW MAGAZINES ONLINE

Pick up a magazine from the comfort of your own home.

nccoast.com

17 To Wilmington

20

Hampstead

210

1 2

ICW

Sound 28

24

13

37 12

3

14

New Topsail Inlet

9

8

30

7

Jolly Roger Pier

Surf City Pier

TOPSAIL BEACH

26

31

5 29 27 35

SURF CITY (7 miles)

(9 miles)

R AR360

22

Beach Furniture Outfitters

25

D’s Interiors

14

Beach Shop and Grill

13

Fishing Village

16

Bear Trail Golf

12

Gift Basket

34

Bella Luna Restaurant

1

Harris Teeter

27

Bert’s Surf Shop

28

Home Port Restaurant

24

Breezeway Motel & Restaurant

32

Luna Pops

26

Bumblebee Market

5

Mainsail Restaurant

19

Coldwell Banker Coastline

9

Mia’s Marketplace

3

Crabby Mike’s

3

Mystic Treasures

7

Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille

37

Quarter Moon Book Store

20

DDT Furniture Outlet

52 | www.nccoast.com

32 22

50

Become a fan of NCCOAST on Just searchT! S for NCCOA

50

To

17

Dixon

Sn

Folkstone

ea

ds

ld

Fe

rry

lks

Fo

210 Rd 25 .

15

19

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to

2

Rd

Four Corners

11

To Swansboro

35

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Pender Co.

Onslow Co.

O

172

21

Camp Lejeune

Holly Ridge

16

To Jacksonville

40

No

Marine Base

rth Vill Shore age

210 Island Dr.

Ocean City Beach

34

NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH (10 miles)

35

New

River

Seaview Pier

R AR350

Inlet

Rd.

New River Inlet

Shark Attack (2 Locations)

21

Shrimp Shack

31

The Belle of Topsail

3

Topsail Art Gallery

29

Topsail Island Trading Co.

15

Treasure Realty

2

Tsunami (2 Locations)

11

Turtle Factory

30

Ward Realty

8

Wings

Regional Beach Access Permuda Island Coastal Reserve Fishing Piers R Artificial Reefs Assembly Bldg.

Chamber of Commerce Turtle Hospital Stoplight

Topsail Coaster

| 53

Topsail Island tides JUNE 2012

High Date AM PM 1 5:03 5:47 2 6:03 6:43 3 7:00 7:37 4 7:56 8:30 5 8:52 9:23 6 9:47 10:16 7 10:43 11:08 8 11:40 ----- 9 12:00 12:39 10 12:54 1:39 11 1:48 2:39 12 2:43 3:36 13 3:39 4:30 14 4:32 5:18 15 5:22 6:03 16 6:09 6:44 17 6:53 7:23 18 7:34 8:01 19 8:14 8:39 20 8:54 9:15 21 9:33 9:52 22 10:14 10:30 23 10:56 11:10 24 11:42 11:53 25 ----- 12:32 26 12:41 1:27 27 1:34 2:26 28 2:32 3:28 29 3:35 4:30 30 4:40 5:30

Low AM PM 11:49 ----12:55 12:44 1:53 1:39 2:49 2:33 3:42 3:28 4:35 4:23 5:27 5:19 6:19 6:16 7:10 7:16 8:02 8:20 8:53 9:26 9:43 10:31 10:30 11:31 11:16 ----12:25 12:00 1:12 12:42 1:55 1:23 2:36 2:03 3:14 2:42 3:51 3:21 4:28 4:01 5:04 4:43 5:40 5:27 6:19 6:16 7:00 7:11 7:45 8:13 8:34 9:20 9:28 10:30 10:25 11:38 11:25 -----

DECEMBER 2012

High Date AM PM 1 8:59 9:18 2 9:37 9:58 3 10:16 10:42 4 10:58 11:31 5 11:45 ----- 6 12:25 12:38 7 1:23 1:35 8 2:22 2:35 9 3:21 3:35 10 4:19 4:34 11 5:14 5:31 12 6:08 6:27 13 7:02 7:21 14 7:54 8:16 15 8:47 9:11 16 9:39 10:08 17 10:33 11:06 18 11:27 ----- 19 12:07 12:23 20 1:09 1:22 21 2:11 2:22 22 3:09 3:20 23 4:02 4:13 24 4:49 5:01 25 5:32 5:45 26 6:12 6:25 27 6:50 7:04 28 7:26 7:41 29 8:02 8:18 30 8:37 8:56 31 9:13 9:35

Low AM PM 3:09 4:11 3:47 4:48 4:28 5:27 5:14 6:08 6:07 6:52 7:07 7:41 8:12 8:32 9:20 9:26 10:25 10:21 11:27 11:16 ----- 12:24 12:11 1:18 1:06 2:11 2:00 3:03 2:55 3:55 3:51 4:47 4:48 5:39 5:49 6:32 6:53 7:25 8:01 8:19 9:09 9:12 10:13 10:02 11:10 10:50 11:59 11:34 ----- 12:43 12:16 1:22 12:55 2:00 1:34 2:35 2:12 3:10 2:49 3:44 3:28 4:18

54 | www.nccoast.com

JULY 2012

High Date AM PM 1 5:43 6:28 2 6:44 7:23 3 7:41 8:16 4 8:36 9:07 5 9:30 9:56 6 10:23 10:44 7 11:15 11:32 8 ----- 12:08 9 12:19 1:01 10 1:07 1:56 11 1:57 2:51 12 2:50 3:46 13 3:45 4:39 14 4:40 5:28 15 5:32 6:13 16 6:20 6:55 17 7:04 7:35 18 7:46 8:13 19 8:27 8:50 20 9:08 9:28 21 9:49 10:07 22 10:33 10:48 23 11:19 11:31 24 ----- 12:10 25 12:19 1:05 26 1:13 2:05 27 2:13 3:10 28 3:19 4:15 29 4:27 5:18 30 5:32 6:16 31 6:33 7:11

Low AM PM 12:41 12:24 1:40 1:23 2:34 2:19 3:26 3:14 4:15 4:08 5:03 5:01 5:50 5:54 6:35 6:49 7:20 7:46 8:06 8:47 8:52 9:50 9:40 10:52 10:29 11:49 11:18 ----12:40 12:06 1:25 12:52 2:06 1:36 2:44 2:18 3:21 3:00 3:57 3:42 4:32 4:26 5:09 5:48 5:48 6:03 6:30 6:58 7:16 7:59 8:04 9:06 9:05 10:17 10:07 11:26 11:11 ----12:29 12:14 1:26 1:14

JANUARY 2013

High Date AM PM 1 9:50 10:16 2 10:30 11:02 3 11:14 11:53 4 ----- 12:05 5 12:51 1:02 6 1:53 2:05 7 2:56 3:11 8 3:59 4:15 9 4:59 5:17 10 5:55 6:14 11 6:49 7:09 12 7:41 8:03 13 8:31 8:55 14 9:20 9:47 15 10:08 10:40 16 10:57 11:34 17 11:47 ----- 18 12:30 12:40 19 1:28 1:37 20 2:27 2:37 21 3:24 3:35 22 4:17 4:29 23 5:04 5:16 24 5:46 5:58 25 6:25 6:38 26 7:02 7:16 27 7:38 7:54 28 8:13 8:31 29 8:49 9:10 30 9:26 9:52 31 10:06 10:37

Low AM PM 4:09 4:53 4:54 5:32 5:44 6:14 6:41 7:02 7:46 7:56 8:55 8:55 10:04 9:57 11:10 10:58 12:09 11:58 ----- 1:04 12:55 1:56 1:51 2:45 2:45 3:34 3:38 4:21 4:32 5:07 5:26 5:54 6:24 6:42 7:25 7:32 8:30 8:25 9:35 9:19 10:35 10:13 11:28 11:03 12:13 11:50 ----- 12:53 12:33 1:30 1:13 2:05 1:52 2:39 2:31 3:12 3:11 3:46 3:53 4:22 4:38 5:00

AUGUST 2012

High Date AM PM 1 7:28 8:01 2 8:21 8:48 3 9:10 9:33 4 9:57 10:17 5 10:44 10:59 6 11:30 11:41 7 ----- 12:17 8 12:24 1:07 9 1:10 2:00 10 2:01 2:57 11 2:59 3:55 12 3:58 4:49 13 4:55 5:38 14 5:46 6:22 15 6:32 7:03 16 7:15 7:43 17 7:58 8:22 18 8:40 9:02 19 9:23 9:43 20 10:09 10:26 21 10:57 11:12 22 11:48 ----- 23 12:02 12:46 24 12:59 1:49 25 2:03 2:56 26 3:13 4:04 27 4:23 5:07 28 5:27 6:05 29 6:24 6:56 30 7:16 7:43 31 8:03 8:26

Low AM PM 2:17 2:09 3:05 3:02 3:50 3:52 4:33 4:41 5:14 5:29 5:54 6:18 6:34 7:09 7:15 8:04 8:00 9:03 8:49 10:07 9:43 11:07 10:38 ----12:01 11:33 12:47 12:23 1:28 1:10 2:06 1:55 2:43 2:39 3:20 3:24 3:57 4:10 4:36 4:59 5:17 5:50 6:02 6:46 6:52 7:48 7:47 8:56 8:50 10:07 9:58 11:15 11:07 ----12:16 12:11 1:09 1:08 1:56 2:01 2:39 2:50

FEBRUARY 2013

High Date AM PM 1 10:50 11:28 2 11:40 ----- 3 12:25 12:38 4 1:29 1:44 5 2:36 2:54 6 3:43 4:03 7 4:46 5:06 8 5:43 6:04 9 6:35 6:57 10 7:25 7:47 11 8:11 8:35 12 8:56 9:21 13 9:40 10:08 14 10:24 10:55 15 11:08 11:44 16 11:56 ----- 17 12:37 12:48 18 1:35 1:48 19 2:36 2:52 20 3:34 3:51 21 4:26 4:42 22 5:12 5:27 23 5:53 6:09 24 6:32 6:48 25 7:09 7:27 26 7:46 8:06 27 8:24 8:46 28 9:04 9:29

Low AM PM 5:27 5:43 6:23 6:32 7:26 7:28 8:36 8:32 9:48 9:39 10:55 10:46 11:54 11:49 ----- 12:48 12:47 1:37 1:41 2:23 2:33 3:07 3:23 3:50 4:12 4:31 5:01 5:13 5:51 5:55 6:45 6:40 7:43 7:31 8:47 8:28 9:51 9:29 10:47 10:27 11:35 11:19 ----- 12:16 12:06 12:54 12:50 1:29 1:31 2:03 2:13 2:38 2:55 3:13 3:38 3:51

SEPTEMBER 2012

High Date AM PM 1 8:47 9:08 2 9:29 9:47 3 10:10 10:26 4 10:51 11:04 5 11:33 11:44 6 ----- 12:18 7 12:28 1:09 8 1:18 2:05 9 2:16 3:05 10 3:18 4:03 11 4:17 4:56 12 5:11 5:43 13 5:59 6:27 14 6:44 7:09 15 7:28 7:51 16 8:13 8:34 17 8:58 9:19 18 9:46 10:05 19 10:36 10:54 20 11:30 11:49 21 ----- 12:29 22 12:49 1:34 23 1:58 2:43 24 3:10 3:51 25 4:19 4:53 26 5:20 5:48 27 6:13 6:37 28 7:00 7:21 29 7:42 8:02 30 8:22 8:40

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Dining Room Open Mon-Fri: 11-3 & 5-9 Sat & Sun: 11-9

CALL FOR SEASONAL HOURS

Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials Seafood & Steaks Pasta Sandwiches Burgers Í0A AcÆÍXÍ- ååA

Children’s Menu Available

910-328-7000

ʦqÍ0³Í clÃÆ Í Ø lÞAÃcÍÍXÍTopsail Beach, NC

Pub Open 4-Until CLEAN REFRIGERATED

Pool Tables Wide-screen TV Live Entertainment on Saturday Nights Karaoke on Friday Nights @ 9:30 0RQ 6DW XQWLO 6XQ XQWLO

NOVEMBER 2012

Low AM PM 3:22 3:59 3:56 4:39 4:30 5:29 5:06 6:01 5:45 6:46 6:27 7:36 7:17 8:31 8:14 9:28 9:18 10:22 10:21 11:10 11:21 11:55 ----- 12:16 12:38 1:08 1:21 1:59 2:05 2:49 2:50 3:40 3:37 4:32 4:26 5:26 5:19 6:24 6:17 7:25 7:22 8:30 8:33 9:35 9:47 10:35 10:56 11:29 11:58 ----12:17 12:51 12:59 1:38 1:37 2:21 2:13 3:01 2:48 3:39 3:22 4:17

High Date AM PM 1 9:46 10:03 2 10:24 10:42 3 11:03 11:23 4 10:46 11:10 5 11:34 ----- 6 12:03 12:26 7 1:01 1:21 8 2:00 2:19 9 2:57 3:15 10 3:52 4:09 11 4:44 5:02 12 5:35 5:54 13 6:26 6:45 14 7:17 7:37 15 8:09 8:30 16 9:02 9:26 17 9:57 10:24 18 10:55 11:27 19 11:55 ----- 20 12:34 12:58 21 1:41 2:01 22 2:45 3:01 23 3:42 3:56 24 4:32 4:46 25 5:16 5:30 26 5:57 6:11 27 6:35 6:49 28 7:11 7:26 29 7:47 8:03 30 8:23 8:40

Low AM PM 3:57 4:55 4:33 5:34 5:12 6:16 4:54 6:00 5:42 6:48 6:37 7:38 7:39 8:28 8:45 9:19 9:49 10:08 10:50 10:57 11:46 11:45 ----- 12:40 12:34 1:33 1:24 2:25 2:15 3:18 3:09 4:12 4:04 5:08 5:04 6:06 6:08 7:05 7:17 8:04 8:29 9:02 9:38 9:55 10:40 10:42 11:34 11:26 12:21 ----12:05 1:04 12:43 1:43 1:19 2:21 1:55 2:57 2:32 3:34

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

CK E SH S HA R Fre IMP d and Wine Sh T sh Seafood

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910-327-2789

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High Date AM PM 1 9:00 9:17 2 9:37 9:54 3 10:15 10:31 4 10:54 11:10 5 11:37 11:52 6 ----- 12:23 7 12:41 1:16 8 1:37 2:14 9 2:39 3:12 10 3:39 4:08 11 4:34 4:59 12 5:25 5:48 13 6:13 6:35 14 7:00 7:21 15 7:47 8:08 16 8:36 8:56 17 9:26 9:46 18 10:18 10:40 19 11:13 11:37 20 ----- 12:13 21 12:41 1:17 22 1:51 2:24 23 3:02 3:31 24 4:08 4:31 25 5:05 5:26 26 5:56 6:14 27 6:40 6:57 28 7:20 7:37 29 7:58 8:14 30 8:34 8:50 31 9:10 9:26

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OCTOBER 2012

Low AM PM 3:20 3:36 3:58 4:20 4:35 5:03 5:11 5:47 5:48 6:33 6:27 7:22 7:10 8:17 8:00 9:18 8:57 10:19 9:58 11:14 10:58 ----12:01 11:52 12:43 12:43 1:23 1:31 2:02 2:19 2:41 3:06 3:22 3:55 4:04 4:45 4:49 5:38 5:38 6:36 6:32 7:38 7:33 8:46 8:42 9:55 9:54 11:00 11:04 11:56 ---- 12:07 12:46 1:02 1:30 1:51 2:10 2:36 2:47 3:19

Shrimp • Scallops • Snow Crab Craw Fish • Tuna • Salmon • Mahi Calamari • Hush Puppies & much more!

Come experience our wine and beer collection from around the Globe!

Over 400 Labels!

1342 HWY. 210 · SNEADS FERRY [ 1 mile from the high rise bridge ]

Topsail Coaster

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Seeing the Sites

Poplar Grove Plantation Just a few minutes off the island, visitors are welcome to take a trip back through history at one of the oldest existing peanut plantations in North Carolina. While others throughout the area made fortunes through the “golden leaf,” tobacco, this historic landmark owes its success to its cash crop, the peanut.

The site includes a 4,284 square foot Greek Revival style manor house, featuring 12 rooms with 12 fireplaces and pair of corbelled interior chimneys. On the grounds, guests can visit craft shops, the blacksmith’s shop or the tenant farmer’s cabin. The mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been preserved as the original homestead of a successful farming family. The outbuildings and craft activities offered are typical of an 1800s era working community.

Be sure to stop by and sample the peanuts, what some locals like to call, Goober Peas, guests can choose either boiled or fried. The site is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Saturday and noon to 5pm on Sunday. Details: 910-686-1621.

Moores Creek National Battlefield During the cold winter months of 1776, American Revolutionaries defeated a force of North Carolina loyalists in a battle that ended British plans to invade the land in Brunswick. It was this Patriot victory at Moores Creek that ultimately led

56 | www.nccoast.com

(cont. from page 18)

to the vote that declared independence from the British on April 12, 1776.

Visitors are invited to walk along the Tar Heel trail and discover all that Moores Creek has to offer.

The park has something for everyone including a picnic area, junior ranger program, guided tours, educational outreach and community events throughout the year.

There are no entrance fees and the park is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Reservations are required for guided tours. To learn more or reserve Patriots Hall, call the visitor center at 910-283-5591.

The Coast

F

or nature lovers, there may be no better way to experience Topsail Island’s assets then spending the night out in the open. And the region’s campgrounds are ready to offer the best of both worlds. Nobody says you have to go without the perks if you decide to spend your vacation in a tent. Hot showers can still be expected, so can pools, fishing spots, boat ramps, playgrounds for the kiddies and free Internet access – beautiful sunsets provided daily at no additional charge.

At family-friendly Lanier’s Campground (1161 Spot Lane, Surf City) guests can have it all and still feel like they’re getting back to nature.

Amenities for this soundside location include a bathhouse, fishing pier and cleaning station, arcade, sandwich grill, beach bingo, playground, interdenominational church services and other organized activities, horseshoes, pool and a store with basic staples. RV, camper and tent sites are available for daily, weekly or monthly rates. Daily rates for a tent site run about $25-$30 per day, or stay for six and get the seventh night free by taking advance of the weekly rate.

Small, quiet and friendly, Surf City Family Campground (2460 Island Drive, Surf City, 910-328-4281) provides a little more privacy that some of the larger parks, but packs great views of the ocean. A small onsite store carries the basics and a small game room can help entertain the children on cloudy days.

The pet-friendly site also features a bathhouse for those who are eager to walk down on the beach. Tent sites are $32 a night.

No matter how you like to camp, it’s easy to find your place at the Virginia Creek Campground (440 Crooked Creek Trail, Surf City). Located on waterfront land that has been in the same family for more than 200 years, the site has spots for just about every type of camper, from the RV enthusiast to the backpacker. Close to restaurants and shopping, and just a hop, skip and jump from the beach, this pet-friendly campground offers laundry facilities, hot showers and a nearby boat ramp.

Also in Surf City, Blackbeard’s Treasure Campground (610 Roland Ave., 910-328-1206) offers full hook-up RV sites, tent sites and pop-up trailers with daily, weekly and monthly rates available. Close to shopping and restaurants, this park overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway features boat storage, a dump station, bath facilities and picnic tables.

Whether you’re coming for a long weekend, or you’re here for the summer, camping on the Treasure Coast can be the perfect way to commune with nature and get to know the community.

Topsail Coaster

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Links to the Links

Finding Topsail’s Golfing Hot Spots Those looking to blend their beach vacation with a little sportsman-like competition with friends, won’t be disappointed on the Treasure Coast. Eastern North Carolina offers a plethora of options for those looking for a rousing game of golf during their vacation. Nestled among chirping birds and lush trees, golfers can squeeze 18 holes into their morning and be back on the beach with sand in their toes by mid-afternoon.

To find the best place to trade your flip flops for golf spikes, look into the following courses and clubs: Bear Trail Golf Club (16), 444 Harris Creek Road, Jacksonville, is an 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course professionally designed

by Rusty Simmons of Simmons Golf Designs, Orlando, Fla., and Gene Daniel of Blackwater Golf, LLC professionally shaped and constructed the greens, the boxes and fairway features. The course is equipped with a pro shop, state-of-theart driving range and putting green. Call 910-3468160 or visit www.beartrailgolf.com.

Golfers searching for a combination of challenges and fair design can find both at Hampstead’s Belvedere Golf and Country Club. With its continually improving greens and a layout that leads golfers in their quest for a better score, Belvedere offers golfers a pro shop, restaurant and swim-

58 | www.nccoast.com

ming pool. For more information, go to 2368 Country Club Drive, Hampstead, call 910-270-2703 or www.visit belvederecc.com.

Designed in the Scottish links style, golfers can play 18 rounds at the nearby Castle Bay Country Club as well. Demanding excellent shot placement on nearly every hole, Castle Bay offers a fully-staffed pro shop, driving range, practice green and bunker, lessons and the Kings Table Club House Restaurant. For more information, go to 107 Links Court, Hampstead, call 910-270-1978 or visit www.castlebaycc.com.

Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway in Sneads Ferry, North Shore Country Club offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and challenging play. Blending the game to its surroundings, this course also provides swimming, tennis, a full range of club activities and even private oceanfront beach access for members. For more information, go to 101 North Shore Drive in Sneads Ferry, call 910-327-2410 or visit www. northshorecountryclub.com.

And just a short drive from Hampstead is Olde Point Golf and Country Club, a 6,900-yard layout framed by lush, native foliage and laced with ponds and water hazards. Amenities of this challenging course include private instruction, a practice area for chipping and putting, a pro shop and dining in the club house. To reserve tee times go to 513 Country Club Drive, Hampstead, call 910270-2403 or visit www.oldepointgolf.com.

Located nearby is the semi-private Topsail Greens Golf Club. Touted as challenging enough for the avid golfer, while not being too intimidating for beginners, this 6,300-yard course is known for its elevated greens and numerous water hazards. Golfers can also enjoy a driving range, chipping and putting area, pro shop and snack bar. For more information, go to 1040 Topsail Greens Drive, Hampstead, call 910-270-2883 or visit www.topsailgreens.com.

Coastal Calendar

(cont. from page 38)

crafts, food and entertainment at the community building on Peru Road.

January Tues. 1: Dolphin Dip. 11am. Virtually thousands of people gather at the Roland Avenue Beach Access in Surf City each Jan. 1 for this chilly dip to help raise money for Hospice.

The swim is scheduled for noon.

Details: 910-526-3788.

February Sat. 9: “TAG” Party Re-

December Sat. 1: Christmas Parade.

The Topsail Beach Christmas Parade fills the streets in honor of the season. Details: 910-328-5841.

7th annual Jingle Bell Ball.

6:30pm. Dress in your best and enjoy an evening to support the Historical Society of Topsail Island. The event includes a catered meal, cash bar and entertainment for dancing at the Topsail Island Assembly Building, 720 Channel Blvd. Tickets are $40. Details: 910328-2488.

Sun. 2: Plantation Christmas. Noon-5pm. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus and tell your wishes, listen to holiday stories, enjoy an arts and craft show and see the 1850 Manor House decorated in its seasonal best at the Poplar Grove Plantation. Details: 910-686-9518.

Fri. 7: Friday Art Exhibit.

6-8pm. Join other area artists at Art Exposure, 22527 Hwy 17 N, Hampstead, for its themed art reception, “Small Treasures,” featuring artwork for sale. Details: 910330-4077.

9-10: Sneads Ferry Winter Fest. The annual event includes the lighting of the town Christmas tree, breakfast with Santa, arts and

verse Raffle. Join the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism at the Assembly Building, for a change to win money. Tickets are $50 per person and include beer, wine, food and entertainment. Guests must be 21 to attend. Details: 910-329-4446.

23-24: Battle of Moores Creek Anniversary. 9am-5pm.

Moores Creek was the location of one of the first battles of the Revolutionary War and the first patriot victory of the war. Step back in time and enjoy reenactments, military camp life, musket and artillery firing and broadsword use at the Moores Creek National Battlefield, Currie. Details: 910-283-5591, www.nps.gov/mocr.

and its favorite flower stretches through five days of entertainment that includes a parade, street fair, circus, concerts and pageant. Details: www.ncazaleafestival.org.

Sat. 27: Hops of Spring Beer Tasting. Noon-6pm. Join friends on the island in Surf City at 105 S. Topsail Ave., as the Greater Topsail Area Chamber hosts this event featuring entertainment, beer tasting and 50/50 raffle. Cost is $25 per person and children 12 and under are free.

May 17-18: Pender County Spring Fest. Meet at the Pender County Courthouse Square in Burgaw for this festival featuring local vendors offering homegrown and handmade goods. Join friends and family from 6-10pm on Friday to enjoy an evening of dancing. The festival runs from 9am-4pm on Saturday and includes arts and crafts and children’s activities. Details: www. visitpender.com.

For more information on Topsail area events, contact the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce at 910-329-4446 or visit topsailcoc.com.

March 30-31: Herb Fair & Plant and Garden Sale. 10am-4pm. Join Poplar Grove Plantation for its annual herb and plant sale just in time to grab some plants for the spring garden. Details: 910-6869518, www.poplargrove.com.

April 10-14: 66th annual NC Azalea Festival. A celebration of Wilmington’s exceptional artwork, gardens, rich history and culture Topsail Coaster

| 59

Play Where You Live.

50% OFF

MEMBERSHIP Call Pro-Shop for details

A traditional 18 hole championship golf course with multiple sets of tees to challenge all skill levels. Bear Trail Golf Club is nestled amongst Jacksonville's premiere all inclusive community Southwest Plantation with homes starting in the $150's. Members of Bear Trail Golf Club enjoy the luxury of the community pool, pool house, walking trails and pro shop. Give us a call today to schedule your next tee time. See You On the Course!

444 Harris Creek Rd • Jacksonville, NC 28540 910-346-8160 • info.beartrailgolf@gmail.com

North Carolina Coast |

12 million hits on nccoast.com a year, each looking for the hottest spot on the Treasure Coast.

Ads, section sponsorship and highlighted listings are now available.

Call 252-247-7442 or email sales@nccoast.com to advertise!

60 | www.nccoast.com

Advertiser Directory The following is a categorized listing of Topsail Coaster advertisers. Each advertiser listing is followed by the page number of their ad and the advertiser’s phone number. For information on advertising your business in Topsail Coaster Magazine, email sales@nccoast.com.

FOOD & DRINK Beach Shop and Grill................................. 42 910.328.6501

Island Marine Supply................................ 27 910-328-1887

Bella Luna ................................................ 44 910.328.0504

Topsail Charter Fishing............................. 27 910.358.4912

Breezeway Motel & Restaurant . ............. 41 910.328.7751

SHOPPING

Bumblebee Market...................................... 6 910.328.2105 Crabby Mike’s............................................. 4 910.328.4331 Daddy Mac’s............................................. 39 910.328.5577 Home Port Restaurant & Pub................... 55 910-328-7000 Luna Pops................................................. 63 910-328-1517 Mainsail Restaurant ................................. 39 910.328.0010 Shrimp Shack Etc...................................... 55 910-327-2789

REAL ESTATE/RENTALS/ ACCOMMODATIONS Coldwell Banker Coastline Realty............... 7 910.327.7711 Island Real Estate..................................... 27 910.328.1887 Treasure Realty ........................................ 17 910.358.4708 Ward Realty Corp. ..................................... 5 910.328.3221

RECREATION

Beach Furniture Outfitters, Inc. ............... 27 910.328.4181 Bert’s Surf Shop.......................................... 2 910.328.1010 DDT Furniture Outlet .................... 32-33, 47 910.329.0160 D’s Interior Design.................................... 37 910.327.2166 Gift Basket ........................................ 2, 47, 3 910.328.7111 Harris Teeter............................................. 23 910.329.0711 Island Outfitters....................................... 27 910.328.1887 Mia’s Marketplace...................................... 5 910.803.0316 Mystic Treasures Jewelry ......................3, 45 910.328.6300 Quarter Moon Bookstore ............. Back Cover 910.328.4969 Shark Attack Souvenir & Gift Shops . ............. 19, 48-49 910.328.1346, 910.327.1222 Topsail Art Gallery & Frame Shop . ........... 4 910.328.2138 Topsail Island Trading Co......................... 63 910.328.1905

Bear Trail Golf........................................... 60 910.346.8160

Tsunami......................................... 13, 29, 62 910.741.0481

The Belle of Topsail.................................... 8 910.328.1621

Turtle Factory Gift Shop........................... 31 910.327.3244

East Coast Sports...................................... 27 910-328-1887

Wings......................................................... 9 910.328.5900 Topsail Coaster

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