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Rainy days don't have to ruin your beach day! At Lil'TipSea and on Topsail Island, there's plenty of fun to keep you and the family busy during any kind of weather.
From exploring local attractions to discovering hidden gems, you can still make the most of your day even when it's raining. So don't let a little liquid sunshine keep you from having a great time - come explore what Topsail Island, NC has to offer!
A 🐬next to a business indicates it's walkable from our location!
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Topsail Island is known for its beautiful beaches and for being a turtle sanctuary. The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center is your chance to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most majestic creatures. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this facility offers an opportunity to learn about the Loggerhead Sea Turtles that return to nest each year on Topsail Island and observe their rehabilitation. Tickets are strongly encouraged in advance.
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At the EMA Touch Tank Aquarium, sting rays, lizards, snakes, turtles, and more greet you at this venue in the heart of Surf City where no reservations are required. Bonus: children under 2 are free, and a squid mural on the side of the building makes for a great photo opportunity! Get up close and personal with these amazing creatures and learn more about them in a fun and interactive environment.
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Help find a missing Surf City biology professor by solving clues left in their office at the Topsail Escape Room. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments are preferred. Bonus: try out their new outdoor adventure on a sunny day!
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Treat yourself to a facial or a massage, and let the sound of rain help you drift away into a state of bliss at Inis Spa in Surf City. With services that must be booked in advance, you’ll be sure to get the best possible experience.
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Move over beachgoers, there's a new spot in town that is the perfect place to hang out no matter what the weather is like! Paradise Axe & Arcade in Holly Ridge is becoming increasingly popular, and it's no surprise why. With axe throwing, arcade games, serving up food, and no reservations required, it's the perfect spot for all kinds of impromptu fun!
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Come to Triton Village and explore its wide range of attractions! Underneath the covered overhangs, visitors will find reprieve from the rain and the popular Salty Turtle Brewery with daily food trucks. However, this spot is far more than beer-focused. Pick up something new in the local boutiques, enjoy a new restaurant experience at the many places to dine, stretch it out with a yoga class at The Cove, and don't forget to treat yourself with a scoop of Beach Bunny ice cream. Once you're ready to go, swing by Salt Marsh Market and take home a healthy dinner and some locally-made products.
For anyone looking for great thrifting spots in Pender & Onslow County, three prime locations await. The first, Our Yard, Your Sale, is a Surf City vendor market with over 70 vendors, plus food trucks for a change of pace. In Jacksonville, you'll find Twice as Nice, the area's biggest thrift store. And don't miss the Carolina Marketplace Vendor Mall, tucked in the back of the DDT outlet just off Highway 17 - they're open daily.
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Unleash your creative spirit by taking an art class at a nearby! There are various places to explore and appreciate art, as well as join an art or yoga class. From Board and Brush in Surf City to Wild Child Art Studio and Art Exposure in Hampstead, these venues offer classes for everyone; children and adults alike. However, remember to register beforehand.
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Stay calm on this rainy day by channeling inner peace at a local yoga class at The Cove, Art Exposure, or explore the offerings of wellness classes by the Town of Surf City which all offer rotating yoga or exercise classes. Dates and times vary by season and preregistration is required.
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A dreary day creates a perfect opportunity to check out all that Lil’TipSea and the town of Topsail Beach have to offer. From roller skating to a museum, a wine bar, and restaurants, there is never a dull moment, rain or shine, while exploring the unique little town of Topsail Beach and its diverse offerings. After a full day, you will love returning to Lil'TipSea to relax thanks to our many amenities.
🐬 The Missiles and More Museum is a mere stone’s throw away and located inside the Historical Assembly Building. This enlightening museum displays the military’s roots, wildlife, pirates, and the hidden guided missile testing program as well as a new Raiders and Runners exhibit which reveals the island’s role in the Civil War.
🐬 Throughout the summer, the Historical Assembly Building hosts BINGO each Thursday night from 6 pm onward. Enjoy food, cards, and stamps for purchase in addition to playing BINGO and be lucky enough to catch one of the themed nights.
🐬 Afterwards, delight your sweet tooth with Surf City Scoop’s freshly churned ice cream and try your luck at the mini arcade. Then, head over to the iconic Topsail Beach Skating Rink to roll around and socialize with friends- this destination has been a staple of the island since the 50s and opens its doors (seasonally) from 6-10 pm.
🐬 Finish off the night with dinner at the elegant Beach Shop and Grill or, if feeling adventurous, gather fresh ingredients at the nearby Lewis Seafood Market. There, you can find the daily catch as well as premade meals from their Food Shack.
🐬 Utilize our fully-stocked kitchen with seafood utensils and cooking spices to whip up a delicious dinner. Later, get cozy in front of the TV and select one of our streaming services to watch your favorite shows. Bonus- open up the couch bed in the living room for a family sleepover!
So don't let the rain wash away your beach day, get out and explore all that Topsail Island has to offer when you #stayliltipsea!
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