Topsail Beach

Just off the coast of southeastern North Carolina lies Topsail Island, a beautiful and historic 26-mile long barrier island that's home to three distinct communities. As you might expect, this narrow strip of land boasts mile after mile of beautiful beachfront, but in Topsail Beach is where you'll find the only one of those stretches of sand where dogs are allowed to visit off-leash.

There are many access points on both sides of the town of Topsail Beach, whether you are looking for ocean waves or calmer channel waters. Check out the channel side from Topsail Beach Sound Side Beach Access Site #1 off of Shoreline Drive all the way on the south border of town, or the ocean side at Davis Avenue, Crews Avenue or MacLeod Avenue, all off Ocean Boulevard. Check the website for lots more places to get on the sand! Different locations offer various amenities, such as trash cans, parking areas, restrooms and showers.

Without a doubt, the highlight of Topsail Beach is simply giving your pet the freedom to roam. They can run and play in the sand, and splash in the waves without a lead. There's heaps of space for your canine companion to explore on this wide, sandy beach, and you won't have to battle through endless crowds just to find a patch of sand to yourself. It's a clean, scenic beach with a quiet and laid-back atmosphere, so it's the pawfect spot for anyone looking to escape the daily grind with their dog. 

Of course, you'll need to make sure that you clean up whenever your dog leaves any mess behind, so be sure to have clean-up bags always on hand. Also pack any other beach essentials for a puptastic day in the sun, including water to share, snacks, and shade. Umbrellas are a convenient way to ensure a shady spot for your dog and prevent overheating.

Off-leash freedom for pups on Topsail Beach is pawsome- but limited. From May 15th to September 30th, dogs must be on a leash of no longer that 20 feet. At all other times of the year, dogs con romp off leash, but they must be under voice command.

Topsail Beach is a haven for dog lovers and their furry friends, especially during the off season. It's well worth the trip to give your dog a pet-acular beach experience!