Topsail Island & Surf City
North of Wilmington, you will find Topsail Island and Surf City. What used to be connected to the mainland by a swing bridge is now connected by a larger, more efficient (albeit less charming) overpass. This area is also known for the concrete structures that remain from Operation Bumblebee. If you travel to the far north end of the island, you will see the affects of the sea reclaiming the beaches and many of the homes have been boarded up and walked away from. If you chose to walk the beach on the north end, you can only access during low tide.
Please note, as with all NC beaches, you will pay to park from March 1-Oct 31 so look for the signs.