You’re deciding where your next vacation will be, and you’ve narrowed it down to Topsail Beach and the Outer Banks. These North Carolina getaways are renowned for beautiful beaches, but which one should you choose? We’ll help you make that choice in this blog!
Want to explore more of the Outer Banks? Then download our free vacation guide! It has everything you need to know about our special part of North Carolina. From restaurants to outdoor activities, the guide covers it all.
In this piece:
- Comparing Topsail Beach to the Outer Banks
- Things to Do on the Outer Banks
- Where to Eat and Drink on the Outer Banks
- Book Your Beach Vacation Today!
- Frequently Asked Questions About Topsail Beach Vs. The Outer Banks
Comparing Topsail Beach to the Outer Banks
Topsail Beach, located on the southernmost point of Topsail Island and about an hour from Wilmington, is a sleepy and serene beach town known for its beautiful sandy beaches, conservation efforts, and relaxed vibe. If you are looking to take a leisurely vacation where you just kick back, swim, and read a book by the beach, then Topsail Beach is the place for you.
The Outer Banks, on the other hand, has so much to do! It is comprised of numerous towns and villages, all of which provide ample opportunity for multiple activities. The Outer Banks is also much larger than Topsail Beach, with more than 100 miles of beach! If you are the type of person who likes variety, then the Outer Banks is the right choice for you.
Things to Do on the Outer Banks
There are so many things to do in the Outer Banks! If you enjoy being active, the OBX is paradise. You can try kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or surfing if you’re feeling like hitting the water. Fishing is also an incredibly popular pastime in the area! You can fish from the beach or piers, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can charter a boat for deep-sea fishing. Topsail has fishing as well, but it’s on a much smaller scale with only a couple of piers and limited charter options compared to the Outer Banks.
If you want something truly unique, you can take a wild horse tour to see magnificent wild Spanish Mustangs up close! That’s the kind of once-in-a-lifetime activity you won’t find on Topsail.
Where to Eat and Drink on the Outer Banks
Hungry and looking for some delicious places to eat? Well, the Outer Banks has no shortage of amazing options. In contrast, Topsail has just a handful of casual seafood spots, so dining variety can feel limited if you’re staying more than a couple of days. Stop by North Banks Restaurant and Raw Bar in Corolla if you’re craving seafood! Want a view of the water as you dine? Then grab a seat at The Village Table and Tavern in Duck or Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant in Nags Head. It doesn’t end there, either, as there are also local breweries and wineries for you to try! With all these fantastic places to choose from, your taste buds will thank you.
Book Your Beach Vacation Today!
If you’d prefer various things to do and see while on vacation, then the Outer Banks is the place for you. Topsail might work for a quiet weekend, but for families and groups who want options, the OBX simply delivers more. Paramount Destinations has vacation rentals in multiple towns along the Outer Banks, giving you plenty of options for where you can stay. Our rentals feature various amenities that will make your stay cozy and convenient. We also have pet-friendly homes and homes where you can walk to the beach. Whatever you choose, a Paramount Destinations Outer Banks Vacation Rental will leave you with lasting memories. Book your vacation rental today!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Topsail Beach Vs. The Outer Banks
Where is Topsail Beach?
Topsail Beach is at the southernmost end of Topsail Island, about one hour from Wilmington, NC.
Where is the Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks starts at the border of Virginia and stretches 120 miles south to Ocracoke Island.