Wrightsville Beach and Topsail Beach are two standout beach destinations along the North Carolina coast. While they’re just an hour apart, these two beach towns offer entirely different vibes. If you’re planning a coastal getaway and deciding between Wrightsville Beach or Topsail Beach, we’re here to help you make the right choice.
Landmark Vacation Rentals offers top-rated beach house rentals in North Carolina, with beautiful properties in Wrightsville Beach, Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, and Surf City. Each location has a unique charm and caters to different kinds of travelers. Let’s dive into what makes Wrightsville Beach and Topsail Beach beach special.
Why Travelers Love Wrightsville Beach
A vacation in Wrightsville Beach puts you on one of the most iconic stretches of shoreline in the South. This vibrant town combines relaxed beach culture with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and water sports.
Visit Wrightsville Beach if you’re looking for:
A lively beach town atmosphere
Wrightsville Beach is known for its pristine shoreline, easily accessible over the C. Heide Trask Memorial Bridge. The white sand and clear waters make it one of the top destinations for beach lovers and photographers alike.
It’s also considered the birthplace of surfing in North Carolina. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or trying it for the first time, you’ll find reliable waves and several surf shops offering rentals and lessons.
Love boating? Wrightsville is a hub for maritime fun. Explore the Intracoastal Waterway, hop on a sunset cruise, or charter a fishing boat. The town's top restaurants even have boat-up docks for those arriving in style.
Beyond the sand, Wrightsville Beach offers boutique shopping, great dining, and a calendar full of local events that make it a favorite among travelers year after year.
Why Travelers Love Topsail Beach
Topsail Beach is a hidden gem for those seeking a more peaceful, family-friendly escape. It's known for its natural beauty, laid-back charm, and some of the best Topsail vacation rentals and North Topsail Beach rentals on the coast.
Choose Topsail Beach for the following:
Quiet, family-oriented beaches
Sea turtle watching and eco-tourism
Local charm without the crowds
Topsail Beach appeals to families and couples looking for a slower pace. The wide, clean beaches provide the perfect backdrop for building sandcastles, swimming, or relaxing under an umbrella. Lifeguarded sections ensure a safe experience for everyone.
Outdoor lovers will find no shortage of things to do in Topsail NC. Visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center, take a nature walk at Serenity Point, or go kayaking along the calm waters of the sound. Topsail is also a favorite for fishing—cast a line off the pier or book a charter boat for deep-sea adventures.
Unlike more commercialized beaches, Topsail offers a throwback vibe with local seafood joints, family-owned ice cream shops, and stunning sunsets that end every perfect beach day.
Landmark Vacation Rentals provides top-quality beach house rentals in North Carolina, with a wide selection of oceanfront homes and cozy cottages in Topsail Beach. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a multi-family getaway, they have something to fit your needs.
Where Should You Stay—Wrightsville or Topsail?
Whether you want the lively beach scene of Wrightsville or the quiet charm of Topsail, Landmark Vacation Rentals has you covered. We manage vacation-ready properties in both destinations, with coastal amenities like private pools, ocean views, game rooms, and easy beach access.
Book your next stay with Landmark Vacation Rentals and take advantage of exclusive guest perks—including discounts on tours, rentals, and local attractions.
Explore More of North Carolina's Coast
If you’re craving more time on the coast, North Carolina offers dozens of beach towns worth exploring. From wild horses in the Outer Banks to peaceful inlets on the Crystal Coast, there’s a perfect destination for every kind of traveler. Whether you're into nature, surf, or pure relaxation, the Tar Heel State has it all.