Topsail Beach

Located on the southern end of the 26-mile long Topsail Island is the the smallest of the three communities,the Town of Topsail Beach. The Island is just off US Highway 17, about half-way between Wilmington and Jacksonville.

Pirates would hid their ships in the channel behind the island and wait for passing merchant ships, and attack , robbing them of their cargoe. Eventually the merchants became aware of this infamous hiding place and began to watch for the tops of the pirates' sails showing over the rolling dunes. Thus giving the name Topsail Island.

Incorporated in 1963, the Town of Topsail Beach boasts a friendly, family oriented style of beach living. High rise development is not allowed. There are over 1200 homes, but only about 500 year-round residents.

The only sea turtle hospital in the state, the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, is located on the sound near Town Hall