Topsail Island & Pender County Visitors Guide 2023

Photo Credit: Amy Fowler ShoreS

About Pender County

Pender County, a host to six towns and seven communities, located along the coast in eastern North Carolina, is within a day’s drive with access to major highways that include I-40, US 17, NC 132, and US 421.

From the beaches to the battleground, and whether you are on a quest for history, relaxation, or beauty, each has something to o er. Residents as well as vacationers can participate in outdoor activities almost yearround.

Pender County o ers comfortable surroundings with a mild climate.

Small towns and country charm make you feel right at home surrounded by a peaceful environment of beaches, rivers, and woodlands. Access to rivers and local game lands are available all throughout the county.

The terrain is primarily flat and provides a long growing season, while our soil has proven ideal for the county’s primary food crop, blueberries. We hope you find it to be as enjoyable as we do!

10

Events Calendar

Live like a local while visiting our many events held throughout the year.

Our Communities 18

Find your treasure in Pender County as you visit our quaint and charming communities. Indulge your taste buds as you discover our best culinary treasures. Shop until you drop and discover the unparalleled selection of local stores from boutiques to antique shops.

Our Great Outdoors 36

As you will discover, there is plenty to do in the great outdoors as you visit Pender County.

52

History & Culture

From pirates to patriots, our historical attractions have something for everyone.

Nightlife 58

Enjoy the local scene as you peruse through our coastal pubs, event venues and local live music performances.

Stay with Us 68

Choose from a host of charming B&Bs, locally owned hotels and spacious beach houses for you and your family.

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Special Occasions

From stunning beach front houses, historic sites, charming farms and breath taking plantations, Pender County has the perfect destination to make your dream wedding or occasion a reality!

Welcome to Pender County & Topsail Island

Welcome to Pender County where you will find we are a place to visit, vacation, live, work, and play.

With us, you can soak up the sun on a sandy beach, paddle down a scenic river, or travel back in time with the history of Topsail Island or while visiting a historic battlefield or plantation. Topsail Beach and Surf City are sun-splashed stretches of sand that are blank canvases for painting your family memories.

This region offers a beautiful landscape for the perfect vacation – toes in the sand, soaking up the sun and surf or something more adventurous, such as running a Jet Ski up the Intracoastal Waterway or learning to surf, experience stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, or boating. It is all here!

Pender County is a rich in natural resources. We are a destination vacation playground of water sports, fishing, beaches,

hiking and exploring. Traverse the Intracoastal Waterway and our inlets. We have many charters and tour companies who will help you explore our waters. Fish the Northeast Cape Fear River and Black River , launch a canoe at Moores Creek National Battlefield , or fish from our famous ocean piers.

Our attractions are award winning. Visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center where sick and injured sea turtles are nursed back to health. Visit Missiles and More Museum , where rocket technology was developed, and where pirate lore is displayed. Don’t miss a visit to Moores Creek National Battlefield , Southeastern North Carolina’s only national park, the site of the first Patriot’s victory over the Loyalists. Tour the Town of Burgaw , the town that Hollywood loves. Our historic town of Burgaw is known for TV and movie shoots, a place where you can walk in the path of the stars on our Hometown Hollywood Tour!

Our treasured riches include our food

Burgaw Area Chamber of Commerce

115 S. Dickerson St. Burgaw, NC 28452 910.259.9817 burgawchamber.com

Pender County Tourism

106 E. Wilmington St. Burgaw, NC 28452 910.259.1278 visitpender.com

Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce

13775 Hwy. 50 Surf City, NC 29445 910.329.4446 topsailchamber.org

fare. We are home to the North Carolina Blueberry Festival and Spot Festival Known also as the “Seafood Capital of the Carolinas.” Our restaurants feature tantalizing flavors with a variety of cuisine, seafood, and traditional Southern meals.

Our friendly communities and great outdoors offer a wide range of activities

and unique attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you want to explore or just relax, Pender County is the perfect place to do it.

The Pender County Tourism Office , the Burgaw Area Chamber of Commerce , and the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce are here to welcome you.

Into Events Sailing

Pender County is home to many large festivals & widely popular events, where visitors are always welcome!

Catch an outdoor concert during one of the many outdoor summer concerts, discover a variety of historical attractions, ecological activities, and hometown festivals.

Check out our website event calendar as you plan your trip to Pender County!

Events are subject to change, please check with the event host for more up to date information.

Casino

Surf

Burgaw’s Farmer’s Markets, Burgaw, Begin in April

Annual Herb and Garden Fair, Poplar Grove Plantation

Annual Penderlea Homestead Day, Penderlea Community

Annual Arbor Day Event, Town of Burgaw

Annual Easter Egg Events, Burgaw & Surf City

Jr. Ranger Day; Moore’s Creek National Battlefield, Currie

Annual Burgaw Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo; Burgaw

Annual Hampstead Baptist Church Car Show; Hampstead

Missiles and More Museum; Season Opening, Topsail Beach

Poplar Grove Farmer’s Market; Held each Wednesday in April through September

Topsail Spring Surf and Pier Fishing Challenge; Topsail Island

Annual Spring Fest; Downtown Burgaw

National Day of Prayer; Roland Beach Access, Surf City

Annual Memorial Day Ceremony; Burgaw & Holly Ridge

Topsail Sounds Concert Series, Topsail Beach Town Center

Summer on the Square Concert Series; Downtown, Burgaw

Alive After Five Concert Series; Hampstead Kiwanis Park

Topsail Beach Craft Market; Every Thursday; Topsail Beach

Live like a local while visiting our many events held throughout the year!

Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center; June-Nov., Surf City

Movies in the Park Movie Series; Town of Surf City, Soundside Park

North Carolina Blueberry Scholarship Pageant; Burgaw

Surf City Sip, Shop, & Stroll; Monthly through the Summer, Surf City

Flag Day Ceremony; Soundside Park, Surf City

Annual North Carolina Blueberry Festival; Historic Downtown Burgaw

Kids Day Fishing Tournament; Soundside Park, Surf City

Topsail Inshore Challenge; Topsail Island

Family Bingo; Historical Society of Topsail Island, June-Aug. Thurs. Only, Topsail Beach

Aquarium Programs; Historical Society of Topsail Island, June-Aug. Wed. Only, Topsail Beach

Full Moon & New Moon Paranormal Ghost Tours; June-Oct., Poplar Grove Plantation

Annual Surf City Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks; Soundside Park, Surf City

Ocean City Jazz Festival; North Topsail Beach

Free Fishing Day at Miller’s Pond Park; July 4, Rocky Point

NC Wildlife Commission Free Fishing Day; July 4, Pender Public Water Accesses

Expo in the Park; Town of Surf City, Soundside Park

Community Fall Events, Burgaw & Surf City

Ghost Walk of Pender’s Past, Burgaw

Topsail Surf and Pier Fishing Challenge; Topsail Island

Turkey Trot, Hampstead, Kiwanis Park

North Carolina Spot Festival; Hampstead

Veterans Day Ceremony; Burgaw & Holly Ridge Annual Candlelight Tour; Moores Creek National Battlefield

Surf City Christmas Lights, Hampstead

Annual Christmas Tree Lightings & Celebrations, begin in November, Surf City, Topsail Beach, Burgaw, Hampstead

Christmas on the Square, Historic Downtown Burgaw

Hometown Christmas, Shop Small, Shop Local!

Pender County Museum Annual Christmas Home Tour; Pender County Historical Society

A Holiday of Lights; Poplar Grove Plantation

The Greater Topsail Area Flotilla and Christmas Market, Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce

Jingle Bell Ball; Historical Society of Topsail Island

Atkinson Annual Christmas Parade; Downtown Atkinson

The Annual Burgaw Christmas Parade; Burgaw Chamber of Commerce, Historic Downtown Burgaw

Annual New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop; Historic Downtown Burgaw

Our Communities

Discover and explore our beaches, wide open spaces, museums, and historic attractions. Visit the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, Visit Missiles and More Museum, Moore’s Creek National Battlefield, and Tour the Town of Burgaw.

Nestled in the heart of Pender County and serving as the county seat, Burgaw is a small quaint town that possesses many charms that takes you back to an older era.

Incorporated on February 25, 1879 and once a railroad town as the Wilmington and Raleigh Railroad Company routed its tracks across the Burgaw Creek, and where a small cross-roads trading post had once existed.

The town remains a progressing and thriving town rich in history, home

to one of the oldest depots in NC and the home of the North Carolina Blueberry Festival offering the uniqueness of what we love about small towns with a walkable downtown area, a Courthouse Square, and connectivity to the local library, schools, parks, and the Osgood Canal Greenway and Urban

Accommodations

Burgaw Motel

Locally owned and operated offering 24 rooms to suit your needs, Friendly staff and clean rooms will make your stay more memorable. All within walking distance to area restaurants and a grocery store. 605 U.S. Highway 117 N. 910-259-4550

County.

The historic downtown welcomes visitors for it festivals and events, shopping, coffee, dining, antique shops, and to take a stroll around its recognizable backdrop that is home to many of our favorite movies.

The Pender House

Formerly known as The Black Hotel, Burgaw’s original inn. Believed to be constructed in 1896 one block from the historic train depot, The Black Hotel originally served as an inn and as the social hub of the community. Freshly restored in 2022, a traditional American Four-square, is now back to its original purpose with a rich history. 214 S. Dickerson St. 910-408-6000 | thependerhouse.com

Walking Trail making this a trail community on the Mountain to Sea Trail that traverses through Pender

Old Farm Shed

Let’s Shop

From antiques to boutiques. The down-home charm of this small town o ers a setting that will put you at ease and enable you to relax.

Burgaw Antiqueplace

101 S. Wright St., 910-259-7070

Monty’s Home

401 U.S. Highway 117 S., 910-259-7911

Old Farm Shed

111 W. Fremont St., 910-465-7868

Rochelle Furniture Co.

111 W. Fremont St., 910-259-4844

Sasi’s World

117 W. Fremont St., 910-300-6297

The Arts at Burgaw Antiques

101 S. Wright St., 910-259-7070

The County Seat 110 W. Fremont St. 910-389-3921

The Glass Cloche 109 S. Wright St. 910-264-2002

Eat & Drink

Bandana’s Restaurant Grill 602 U.S. Highway 117 910-259-3448

Brown Dog Coffee Co. Inc. 103 A W. Fremont St. 910-259-3349 browndogcoffeecompany.com

Burgaw Alimente 118 W. Fremont St. 910-300-3149

Burgaw Brewing 103 S. Wright St.

El Mariachi Mexican Food 409 US-11 Highway 117

El Mirasol Mexican Grill and Store 211 US Highway 117 910-789-1154

Fat Daddy’s Pizza 103 W. Fremont St. 910-300-6350 fatdaddysburgaw.com

Bandana’s Restaurant Grill

Old Carolina Eatery

Harvey’s Deli and Tavern

108 W. Fremont St. 910-259-8444

MeMa’s Chick’n & Ribs

602 U.S. Highway 117 910-300-6139 memaschicknandribs.com

BLUEBERRY TRAIL

The trail leads you to seasonably fresh blueberries, fields, shops, eateries, history, and more.

With locals and visitors calling the town of Burgaw “Blueberry town,” you are sure to find a delicious variety of blueberry desserts,

Old Carolina Eatery 111 S. Wright St. 910-789-3844 oldecarolinaeatery. com

Scoops Ice Cream Parlor 795 Highway 117 S. 910-663-9146

jams, and merchandise being sold at our local farms, markets, shops, and businesses at the peak of the season and throughout the year.

Pender County Tourism 106 East Wilmington St. 910-259-1278 visitpender.com

Mema’s Chick’n & Ribs

HOMETOWN HOLLYWOOD FILM TOUR

A walking tour based on the locations from well-known films and television series filmed within Pender County focusing on the Historic Downtown Area of Burgaw, the Courthouse Square, and familiar storefronts. Pender County and the Town of Burgaw’s shops, parks, schools, street corners, courthouse square, and more are backdrops for dozens of your favorite television and movie productions.

Movies would include Stephen King’s (1985) Silver Bullet, The Summer of Ben Tyler (1996), I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997), Freedom Song (2000), The Runaway (2000), The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002), My Life in Idlewild (2004), The Jailhouse (2009), Tammy (2014), including the television series Revolution (2012), & Under the Dome (2013), also based on a Stephen King’s novel.

Many movies and television series have been filmed throughout Pender County including Burgaw, Watha, Atkinson, St. Helena, Hampstead, Scotts Hill, Topsail Beach, and Surf City.

Pender County Tourism 910-259-1278

Located between the beach communities of Surf City and Topsail Island, known as “The Seafood Capital of the Carolinas,” Once a small fishing village and whistle stop on the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. Hampstead is home to many local seafood vendors and a growing number of restaurants, it is one of the fastest growing areas in the state as more and more people flock to the coast for easy living on our waterways, creeks, and golf courses.

Hampstead Let’s Shop

ArtExposure

22527 US Highway 117 N. 910-803-0302

Burry Chocolates

21572 US Highway 17 910-650-0810

Coastal Home Store 17007 US Highway 17 N. 910-821-1390

Eastern Outfitters 21241 US Highway 17 Suite 01 910-270-2823

Fancy Flamingo 17230 US 17 N Unit 100 910-803-2325

Italian Market of Hampstead 14361 NC Highway 17 N. 910-319-0860

Fancy Flamingo

Pender Pines Garden Center Inc.

20949 US Highway 17 N 910-270-2706 penderpines.com

Porch & Nest 10250 US Highway 17 N. 910-406-1181

Eat & Drink

A Taste of Sunrise Coffee House

14669 US Highway 17 North 910-319-0800

Riptide Ryno’s

17230 N. Highway 17 Suite 108 910-821-1500

Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream 15919 US Highway 17 910-821-1140

Burney’s Sweets & More 14542 US Highway 17 910-319-0591

Burrito Shak 15489 US Highway 17 N. Unit 4 910-319-0243

Camino Real Mexican Bar & Grill 16406 US Highway 17 N. 910-270-1367

Hampstead Bagel Bakery

16865 US Highway 17 N. 910-270-9099

Hibachi To Go 15248 US Highway 17 910-270-9200

Highway 55 17230 US Highway 17 N #102 910-270-2280

Jebby’s on 17 15831 US Highway 17 N 910-803-0414

Jersey Mike’s Subs 17230 US Highway 17 N Suite 200 910-406-1000

Leaf and Barrel Provision Company 15010 A US Highway 17 N 910-821-1810

Los Primos Mexican Restaurant 14536 US Highway 17 N. Unit A 910-821-1444

Matter More Coffee 15919 US Highway 17 Unit G 910-821-1870

Whether you are in the mood for fresh caught seafood or an after-dinner cup of frozen yogurt, you will find a place to suit your taste buds in Pender County.

Nineteen Bar and Restaurant

513 Country Club Dr. 910-406-1419

Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream

Surf

Surf City has been the commercial heart of Topsail Island for over 60 years. The town has grown from a small fishing village that was home to a handful of families to a year-round full-time community.

Visitors enjoy the sand on their feet and the peaceful rhythms of the ocean under a deep blue sky with its clean and well managed beaches.

Surf City is home to a variety of indoor and outdoor dining facilities that feature coastal Carolina cuisine. The central business district o ers a surprising choice of shopping opportunities from gift boutiques outdoor equipment suppliers. West of Surf City, Topsail Sound and the Intracoastal Waterway separate the island from the mainland. This narrow body of water provides the perfect setting for canoeing, kayaking, water skiing and fishing.

Coral Cottage Boutiques

14061 NC Highway 50 E. 910-599-5115

East Coast Sports 409 Roland Ave. 910 328-1887

Fisher Collective Clothing & Fine Gifts

112E Charlie Medlin Dr. 910-803-2015

Gigi Marie Gourmet Foods & Wine 104G Charlie Medlin Dr.

Herring’s Outdoor Sports 701 N New River Dr. 910-328-3291

Inlet Blue Market 303 D South Topsail Dr. 910-540-4683

Love’s Active Boutique/Picnic

Haven

214 N Topsail Dr Suite B 919-454-9271

Megabella Treasures

418 N New River Dr. 910-541-0416

Mermaid Cove 2761 NC Highway 210 East 910-329-0045

Mia’s Marketplace

14061 D, NC Highway 50 910-803-5115

Onshore Surf Shop

405 Roland Ave.

Peace Waves Apparel & Accessories

108C Charlie Medlin Dr. 910-510-2893

Salt Marsh Market 100 Charlie Medlin Dr. 910-803-0900

Sandy Toes Boutique & Gifts

206 N. Topsail Dr., Suite D 910-541-2091

Seacoast Art Gallery 203 Greensboro Ave 910-328-1112

Southern Emporium 208 N. New River Dr., Suite J 910-541-0138

Spinnaker Surf Shop 111 N. Shore Dr. 910-328-2311

Sugar Kingdom 125 N. Topsail Dr. 843-455-7171

Surf City Gift Shop 106 S. Topsail Dr. 910-328-0835

Surfside Sportswear Gifts 314 New River Dr.

The Blue Ridge Boutique 108D Charlie Medlin Dr. 910-233-2311

Tommy J Designer Jewelry 13500 Highway 50, Suite 109 910-803-2200

Topsail Island Popcorn Factory 208 N New River Dr., Suite B 910-541-2475

Topsail Island Trading Company 201 N. New River Dr. 910-328-1905 topsailtrading.com

Walk the Bridge Gift Shop 809 Roland Ave. 910-541-0716

Eat & Drink

Baba’s Mediterranean

104 Charlie Medlin Dr. Unit D 910-803-2077

Bahama Mama’s Shaved Ice

116B South Shore Dr. 910-541-0716

Beauchaines 211

211 S. Topsail Dr. 910-328-1888

Beach Bunny Ice Cream

100 Charlie Medlin Dr 910-386-3097

Buddy’s Crab House & Oyster Bar

101 Roland Ave. 910-328-1515

Burrito Shak 2761 State Highway 210 Unit A 910-803-2382

Camino Real Mexican Restaurant 13460 NC Highway 50/210 910-329-4500

Chug & Grub American Gastropub 13500 NC Highway 50 Suite 107 910-329-0555

Highway 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries 106 C N. New River Dr. 910-328-2111

Island Crush Italian Ice 205 Roland Ave. 910-541-1231

Island Delights 316 N. New River Dr. 910-328-1868

Island Wok 2660 State Highway 210 #105 910-803-2325

JTs Brick Oven Pizza 201 Alston Blvd. #D 910-329-5500

Celtic Creamery TI 204 N. New River Dr. 910-541-0221

Coastal Wing & Spirits Company 108 Triton Lane 910 803-0324

Beach Bunny Ice Cream

Topsail Island Trading Company

Max’s Pizza

602 A Roland Ave. 910-328-2158

Michaelangelo’s

13460 NC Highway 50, Suite 210 910-329-5081

Napoli Café

208 N New River Dr. 910-541-0815

New York Corner Deli

206 N. Topsail Dr. 910-328-2808

North Shore Juice 204 Roland Ave. 910-515-7701

Pelican’s SnoBalls

204 C N. New River Dr. 910-515-1918

Salty Turtle Beer Company 103 Triton Ln. 910-803-2019

Santino’s Pizza and More 205 S. Topsail Dr. 910-541-2759

Sea Blue Co ee & Ice Cream 116 C S. Shore Dr. 910-541-0595

Sears Landing Grill and Boat Docks

806 Roland Ave. 910-328-1312

Shaka Taco 107 N. Shore Dr. 910-616-3118

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar of Surf City 13460 NC Highway 50, Suite 101 910-803-2037

Surf City BBQ 13500 Highway. 50, Suite 111 910-328-4227

Surf City Co ee 50 Roland Ave. Suite D 910-388-4535

Surf City Line 2112 N New River Drive 910-541-0062

Surf City Ocean Pier Grill and Ice Cream 112 S. Shore Dr. 910-328-3521

SurfDog Bites and Brews 204-A N. New River Dr. 910-541-2358

Sweet Island 306 Roland Ave. 910-622-2276

The Crab Pot 508 Roland Ave. 910-328-5001

The Daily Grind Surf City

The Daily Grind Surf City 114 N. Topsail Dr. 910-541-0471

The Fast Fish 205A Roland Ave. 910-541-0886

The Peak Tap House and Kitchen 205 Roland Ave. 910-541-0123

Tiki Turtles Ice Creams, Boba Milk Teas & Shakes 13500 Highway 50, Suite 108 910-803-0873

The Crab Pot

The beach you remember, incorporated in 1963, Topsail Beach reaches from Surf City’s town limits to the southernmost tip of the Island.

Not only is it home to

Topsail Beach

beautiful beaches, but it is also home to favorite restaurants, a general store, unique shops, and a fishing pier. Locally owned and operated motels o er views of the ocean or the sound.

Home to the Missiles and More Museum, visitors can learn about the unique history of the island, and “Autumn with Topsail,” a popular festival of the island.

Eat & Drink

Let’s Shop

Quarter Moon Books, Gifts and Wine Bar

708 S. Anderson Blvd. 910-328-4969

South End Outfitters 627 S. Anderson Blvd. 910-541-0832

The Gift Basket 702 S. Anderson Blvd. 910-328-7111

The Blue Gracias Open Air Art Market

706 S Anderson Blvd.

Breezeway Restaurant 810 S. Anderson Blvd. 910-328-4302

Cora’s Isle-End Deli 712 S. Anderson Blvd. 910-541-2007

The Beach Shop Grill 701 S. Anderson Ave. 910-328-6501

The Jolly Roger Pier Grill 803 Ocean Blvd. 910-328-4616

More to Do

Topsail Skating Rink 714 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach, N.C. 910-328-2381

Find your treasure in one of Pender County’s smaller municipalities

Atkinson

Incorporated in 1909, the treasures you will find in Atkinson include blueberry fields and the pristine Black River.

Currie

The unincorporated town was settled in 1888, named for John H Currie, a director of the Cape Fear & Yadkin Valley Railroad.

The community has many large acres of farmlands, small homes, and winding roads. Wildlife such as deer and bear can be spotted any time of the day.

The Bell House is one of the oldest homes in Currie, built-in 1864. Also still standing is a oneroom schoolhouse located on Highway 210.

Currie is home to the historic Moores Creek National Battlefield and the Canetuck Rosenwald School.

Penderlea

Once known as a “farm city,” it is an agricultural community established in 1934 by the US Department of the Interior. It was the first of 152 subsistence resettlement projects under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal.

The Penderlea community is laid out in a horseshoe fashion around a central community center that included an auditorium, gymnasium, and school.

Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt made a personal visit to Penderlea in 1937 in e orts to boost nationwide enthusiasm for her husband’s New Deal proposals.

Maple Hill

A well-traveled unincorporated community by many visiting the beaches Surf City & Town of Topsail Beach located in the eastern area of Pender County. It is known as an agricultural center for many farmers. The name of the community can be traced to a maple tree or maple grove which was formerly located on a hill in the area. The area is diverse in culture.

Watha

The quiet community of Watha, originally named South Washington, was the first county seat and home to the first original courthouse in Pender County but in 1926 suffered a devastating fire that destroyed much of the town. Watha remains a largely residential rural community in the western part of Pender County.

St. Helena

The Town of St. Helena was developed in 1905 to attract immigrant farmers from Eastern Europe. Called the “Nation’s Garden Spot” immigrants purchased 10 acres of land, a three-room cottage for $240. Once established, the families built the unique and beautiful St. Peter & St. Paul Russian Orthodox Church.

Rocky Point

Located south of Burgaw, a rural two-stoplight and rapidly growing community that is home to many farmers, business owners, and commuters. Also known as the home of the well-known, Paul’s Place Famous Hot Dogs.

Since Revolutionary times, Rocky Point has been known for its wonderfully fertile soil and

bountiful crops. When the channel of the Cape Fear River was deepened, the rock that filled the new inlet below Wilmington came from the Rocky Point section of the Northeast Cape Fear River. Upon completion in 1875, it was called “The Rocks.”

Paul’s Place Hot Dogs

Scotts Hill

A community on the Pender County line named for the Scott family who lived on a hill in the vicinity of what is now the Old Scotts Hill AME Church. In 1791 President George Washington and in 1819 President James Monroe both passed through on their way to Wilmington.

The center of the area was and still is the Poplar Grove Plantation, famous for its once long traditional peanut farm. Since 1980 the plantation has been open to the public as a historical attraction, educational facility, and hosts many wonderful weekly and annual events.

Greater Pender Area

Southern Fusions Restaurant

700 E Church St, Atkinson, NC 910-283-7680

Penderlea Store

3788 Highway 11 Willard, NC 910-552-5204

Hollands Shelter Creek II Restaurant and Bar

756 East Ocean Rd., Holly Ridge 910-803-2224

Southern Roots Grille

552 East Ocean Rd., Holly Ridge 910-803-0773

The Sailfish Restaurant

2570 Scotts Hill Loop Rd. Scotts Hill 910-406-1055

The Sailfish Restaurant

Johnson’s Corner Grill and Grocery 9031 US-421, Currie 910-283-7680

Sweet Bee’s Country Grill 5980 US-117, Willard 910-259-2941

Breweries & Distilleries

It is no secret that North Carolina is home to a large number of breweries. Find great breweries and craft beers located right here within Pender County.

Brews, Taps, & Distilleries

Taste what‘s on Tap, Kick back and enjoy our local breweries.

Burgaw Brewing

103 S. Wright St., Burgaw

Hidden Ships Distillery 116 Charlie Medlin Dr.

Ironclad Golf & Brewery 107 Links Ct. Hampstead 910-769-0290 ironcladgolf.com

Leaf and Barrel Provision Co.

15215 US Highway 17 S, Hampstead 910-821-1810

Salty Turtle Beer Company

103 Triton Lane, Surf City 910-803-2019

Surf City Brewing Company

400 Alston Blvd. NC Hwy 210 Suite A

The Peak Taphouse & Kitchen

205 Roland Ave., Suite C, Surf City 910-541-0123

The Salty Turtle Beer Company

Our Great Outdoors

Enjoy & Explore the Great Outdoors of Pender County!

Discover, Pender County is an outdoor lover’s paradise where you can enjoy incredible golfing, fishing, and water sports.

Our beaches are sea turtle sanctuaries, the Mountains to Sea Trail wanders through the wonders of Pender County, and our nature preserves and game lands o er hunting and hiking.

Take a boat ride out into the crystalclear ocean or explore our Intracoastal waterways. Kayak or canoe on our rivers and tributaries.

Beach Access

There are many beach and sound accesses located in Surf City and the Town of Topsail Beach.

Lea –Hutaff Island Preserve Accessible by boat. Topsail Beach

Jolly Roger Pier 803 Ocean Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-4616 thejollyroger.com

Surf City Ocean Pier 112 South Shore Dr. Surf City 910-328-3521 surfcityoceanpier.com

Tiki Tours

412 Roland Ave. Surf City (910) 650-3223 tikitoursnc.com

Topsail Voyages

Topsail Island 910-265-7087

Topsail Boat Rentals

203 N New River Dr. Surf City 910-833-2273 topsailboatrental.com

The Queen Jean Fishing and Excursions

Assembly Building Topsail Beach 910-545-7433

Topsail Island Yacht Club 111 N. New River Dr. Surf City 910-899-8606 topsailislandyachtclub.com

Tucks Water Shuttle

636 Channel Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-616-7106

Boating Accesses

www.ncwildlife.org

Sloop Point 613 Lewis Rd. Hampstead 919-707-0010

Surf City 517 Roland Ave. Surf City 919-707-0010

Holly Shelter 7271 Shaw Highway Burgaw 919-707-0010

Sawpit Landing 527 Whitestocking Rd. Burgaw 919-707-0010

Shelter Creek 12380 Shaw Highway Burgaw

Local Marinas

Bush Marina 912 S Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-2746 topsailbeach.org

Harbour Village Marina

101 Harbour Village Dr. Hampstead 910-270-4017 harbourvillagemarina.com

Marsh Creek at Scotts Hill Marina 2570 Scotts Hill Loop Scotts Hill 910-270-4460 marshcreekmarine.com/home.html

Topsail Island Marina 412 Roland Ave. 844-486-7724

Cycle the Island

Bicycle the island or peddle the sandy beach.

Mutiny Bikes, LLC

322 North New River Dr. Surf City. 910-601-2640 Ebiketopsail.com

Ride T.I. 111 N Shore Dr. Surf City 910-386-3855 Ride-TI.com

South End Outfitters 627 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-541-0832 southendoutfitters.com

Topsail Surf & Cycle 714 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach. 910-928-8008

Also offering beach bike rentals Herrings Outdoor Sports, OnShore Surf Shop, 50 South Surf Shop

Blueberry Farms

Carol Sue Farms 19874 US-17 Hampstead 910-520-6629 carolsuefarms.com

Farmer Mac’s Blueberry Farm 184 Berry Patch Rd. Hampstead 910-270-4619

Murray Blueberry Farm 180 Murray-Turner Farm Rd. Burgaw 910-259-4285

Ivanhoe Blueberry Farms 1091 Eddie L. Jones Rd. Ivanhoe 910-532-2880 ivanhoeblueberryfarms.weebly.com

Shaken Creek Farms 7429 Old Maple Hill Rd. Burgaw 910-540-4611 shakencreekfarms.com

Farms & Agritourism

Clover Meadows 2238 Henry Brown Rd. Burgaw 910-599-5553

Ash’s Japanese Maple Nursery 421 Rowan Rd. Hampstead 910-270-4723 japanesemaplefarm.com

Bear Ridge Farms Inc. 270 Old Maple Hill Rd. Maple Hill 910-289-1722

Desperado Horse Farm and Trail Rides 7214 NC Highway 210 Rocky Point 910-617-3563 desperadohorsefarm.com

Humphrey Farms Inc. 6611 NC Highway 53 Burgaw 910-524-7455 humphreyfarmsnc.com

Old River Farms 8711 Old River Rd. Burgaw 910-620-6351 or 910-616-5884 oldriverfarmsnc.com

Penderosa Rescue and Sanctuary

256 Lamb Rd. Willard 910-279-1668 penderosarescueandsanctuary.com

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina at Johnson Nursery 985 Johnson Nursery Rd. Willard 800-624-8174 Johnson-nursery.com

Shingleton Farms Equestrian Resort 904 Saps Rd. Hampstead 910-619-7104 shingletonfarms.com

Farmers Markets

Farmer’s Market at Poplar Grove 10200 US Highway 17 N Wilmington 910-686-9518 poplargrove.org/farmers-market/

Perryman Farm and Seafood 115 Crystal Ct. Hampstead 910-270-3036

Sonny Rowe “The Farm Market” 13538 NC Highway 210 Rocky Point 910-675-9971

Gamelands

Angola Bay Game Land

Pender/Duplin Counties Rocky Point 919-707-0010 MST, Seg. #14 mountainstoseatrail.org/segment/14/ ncwildlife.org

Mariculture

Fresh Oysters & Eco Tours

Ghost Fleet Oyster Co. 910-620-4385 ghostfleetoysterco.com

N. SEA. Oyster Co. 674 Old Landing Rd. 910-778-9242 orders@nseaoyster.co nseaoyster.co/

Golf

Castle Bay Country Club 107 Links Ct. Hampstead, NC 28443 910-270-1978 castlebaycc.com

Ironclad Golf & Brewery

107 Links Ct. Hampstead 910-769-0290 roncladgolf.com

Olde Point Country Club

513 Country Club Dr. Hampstead 910-270-2403 oldepointgolf.com

Grand Oaks Driving Range 536 Pine Village Dr. Rocky Point 910-675-3383 olfingrockypoint.com

Miniature Golf

Patio Playground

807 S Anderson Blvd. 910- 616-2814

Shipwreck Point Golf

107 Charlie Medlin Dr. 910-329-4653

Sur ng

Surf City Surf School

106 B. North Topsail Dr. Surf City 910-616-6318 surfcitysurfschool.com Topsail Surf Adventures 910-803-1099 topsailsurf.com

Parks & Recreation

Burgaw Parks 910-300-6401 Hankins Park 310 North Walker St. Harrell Memorial Park 108 East Ashe St. Johnson Park 311 S. Walker St.

Rotary Park 102 Industrial Dr. Surf City Parks 910-328-4887

Kenneth D. Batts Family Park 911 South Topsail Dr. Nelva R. Albury Recreation Area 101 Broadway St.

Soundside Park 517 Roland Ave.

Surf City Community Center 201 Community Center Dr. Pender County Parks 910-259-1330

Hampstead

Hampstead Kiwanis Park

586 Sloop Point Loop Rd.

Rocky Point

Miller’s Pond 12762 US Highway 117

Trails

The Mountains to Sea Trail mountainstoseatrail.org Pender County Tourism 910-259-1278

Abbey Nature Preserve Trail Hampstead & Scotts Hill 910-259-1330

East Coast Greenway Trail Hampstead, Surf City, Topsail Beach 919-797-0619 greenway.org

NC Birding Trail www.ncbirdingtrail.org

Osgood Canal Greenway and Urban Trail MST, Seg. #14 mountainstoseatrail.org/ segment/14/ Burgaw 910-300-6401 burgawnc.gov

Wineries & Vineyards

Bannerman Vineyard and Winery 2624 Stag Park Rd. Burgaw 910-233-0103 bannermanvineyard.com

Gregory Farms and Vineyard 2576 Montague Rd. Currie 910-520-1971 gregoryfarmsandvineyard.com

& Culture History

From Pirates to Patriots, Pender County is rich in history. Visit our historical attractions including the Missiles and More Museum, where rocket technology was developed, visit Moores Creek National Battlefield, Tour the Town of Burgaw, the town that Hollywood loves to film.

MISSILES & MORE MUSEUM

Explore the Pirates of the Carolinas, NASA Operation Bumblebee, Camp Davis, Traces of Native Americans on the Island, and a Women Airforce Service Pilot; all exhibits that teach about the history of the island. 720 Channel Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-8663 missilesandmoremuseum.org

POPLAR GROVE PLANTATION

Once the largest peanut plantation in NC, and over 100 years old, offers tours of their Manor House Museum as well as the grounds and features life in the 1800’s including Agriculture, Civil Rights, the Gullah Geechee Culture, the Foy Family tree and more. Day tours, Paranormal investigation tours, markets, events, and an animal rescue. 10200 US Highway 17 N Scotts Hill 910-686-9518 poplargrove.org

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BURGAW

Tree-lined streets of historic downtown Burgaw boast an eclectic variety of 18th and 19th century architecture that represent a vanishing example of a bygone era. In addition, the historic district is the home of the NC Blueberry Festival and the recently renovated oldest depot in the state, dating back prior to the Civil War. Enjoy the small-town charm and rich historic character.

AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE TRAIL

A driving tour, feature’s locations important to our culture and history from the black communities from the time of the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. The trail feature’s locations, events, and people that had a great impact on the development of Pender County and in some cases the United States of America.

Tourism Office & Visitor Center 910-259-1278

The trail is featured on the app, Pocketsights.com.

BURGAW TRAIN DEPOT

One of the oldest train depots in the state of North Carolina, dating back to 1850, on the National Register of Historic Places and the Civil War Trail. 115 S. Dickerson St. 910-300-6401 burgawnc.gov/312/BurgawTrain-Depot

CIVIL WAR TRAILS

The NC Civil War Trail is a segment of the United States Civil War Trail. The trails spotlight historical Burgaw and the oldest standing train depot in the state. There are also other sites throughout Pender County. Historical Downtown Burgaw 757-378-5462 civilwartrails.org

PENDER COUNTY COURTHOUSE

One of the most attractive historical buildings built on November 6, 1936, this threestory structure was designed with several unique features by William Henley Dietrick. The brickveneered H-shaped structure

holds a mixture of Georgian Revival and Colonial Revival architecture features. The building is historically known for its architecture and engineering design. 100 S. Wright St. Burgaw Phone: 910-259-1278 pendercountync.gov

PENDER COUNTY MUSEUM

Preserving the history of Pender through documents, artifacts, photos, and a genealogy, collection of WWII Veterans remembrances, family bibles, civil war information, clothes from the 19th century, and an old barn with a blacksmith shop and a collection of agriculture equipment and items relating to Pender’s past as a hub of naval stores, timber, and Blueberry industries. 200 W. Bridgers St. Burgaw 910-259-8543 pendercountymuseum.webs.com

W. DALLAS HERRING CAROLINA HERITAGE RESEARCH CENTER

Offers genealogy and local history resources concentrated on eastern North Carolina, particularly Duplin, Pender, and Sampson counties 108 S. Cowan St. Burgaw 910-259-1906 penderpubliclibrary/ CarolinaHeritageResearch

Site of one of the first battles in the South of the Revolutionary War and the first patriot victory of the war. Remnants remain of the 1776 road traveled by patriot and loyalist forces. A .7-mile trail with wayside exhibits leads through the

battlefield and across Moores Creek. The historic bridge site is located along the trail.

The park offers a visitor center with exhibits, lighted troop movement maps and film, a .3-mile colonial forest trail, and a picnic area.

CANETUCK COMMUNITY CENTER

Formerly the Canetuck Rosenwald school, constructed as a two-teacher Rosenwald school in western Pender County, NC. It opened in 1922 and was purchased back by the community after the school’s closure in 1958.

6098 Canetuck Rd. Currie 910-259-1278 stackstories.com/preservation-work

PENDERLEA HOMESTEAD MUSEUM

Housed in one of the first homesteads bui lt-in 1936 by the Department of the Interior on Penderlea Homestead Farms, a resettlement community in Pender County developed under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s

New Deal, on the National Register of Historic Places 9-27-13. 284 Garden Rd. Willard 910-604-1616 rleahomesteadmuseum.org

After sundown,

our nightlife kicks in. Most

Burgaw

Burgaw Brewing

103 S. Wright St.

Harvey’s Deli and Tavern 108 W. Fremont St. 910-259-8444

Surf City

10th Street Bar & Grill 2111 N. New River Dr. 910-541-2802

Crab Pot 508 Roland Ave. 910-328-5001

Leaf

The

Co.

205 Roland Avenue, Suite C 910-541-0123

Scallywags

121 N Shore Drive 910-928-8017

Surf City Line 2112 N. New River Dr. 910-541-0062

The Cove 112 Triton Ln. 910-803-2019

The Locals Art Gallery & Wine Bar

112 Charlie Medlin Dr unit B Surf City

The Trailer Bar 1701 N New River Dr. 910-541-0777

Salty Turtle Beer Company 103 Triton Lane 910-803-2019

Surf City Brewing Company 400 Alston Blvd. NC Highway 210 Suite A

UnWINEd 114 N Topsail Dr. 910-541-0471

S. Anderson Blvd. 910-328-4969

Beach Shop & Grill Outdoor Patio 701 S. Anderson Blvd. 910-328-6501

Photos by Debora Haughton

We encourage you to exploreall that our town has to offer! Whether you’realocal or avisitor,anadventure awaits at our parks, playgrounds, public beach accesses, Community Center,Welcome &Event Center,off-leash Bark Park, Disc Golf Course, and so much more!

SPECIAL EVENTS

No matter the season, Surf City hosts events for the whole family to enjoy! Throughout the year,besureto check out some of our annual events including our Easter Egg Hunt, Sip, Shop, &Stroll, Movies in the Park, Independence Day Celebration, Fall Fest, and Christmas Tree Lighting! Shareyour pictures with us on social media using #SurfCityParks

. Lannen

Sandy W. izzelle, CSR

Dear Visitors, we want you to live like a local. Here’s the inside scoop on what you need to know while visiting the beach.

Remember the turtles. They are drawn to light at night. Please turn off the beachfront deck and porch lights.

Fill in holes dug in the sand. Turtles get stranded in the holes and beach walkers can stumble.

Leave glass bottles and cups at home.

Leave the plastics at home. Plastics such as bags and balloons are hazardous to our turtles and sea -

Dunes protect the island and we protect the dunes. Climbing dunes weaken and destroy dunes and

Beach wheelchairs are available from the Topsail Beach Police Department 910-328-4851 or the Surf City Parks and Recreation 910328-2716.

THE BEACH REPORT

What you need to know when visiting the beach...... We’re one of the most pet-friendliest islands in North Carolina. In Surf City, dogs are allowed on the beach, but must be always on a leash. In the Town of Topsail Beach, in season, dogs must be on a leash, however, from Oct. 1st – May 14th, dogs are permitted off leash if they are under voice command.

BEACH SAFETY

Important things to remember when visiting our beaches:

• Make sure you and your children know the address of your rental house.

• Be aware of ocean & weather conditions – Swim at your own risk.

• There is no overnight camping on the beach

• Personal items will be disposed of if left overnight

• Pet safety is our concern. Please do not leave your pets in hot cars.

• Make sure that your pet is also wearing current tags that clearly display your contact information if found.

BEACH PARKING

for beachgoers visiting Surf City.

• Surf City Residents & Visitors are now able to register for seasonal parking permits.

Breezeway Motel

636 Channel Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-7751 thebreezewayrestaurant.com/motel

Jolly Roger Oceanfront Inn

803 Ocean Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-4616 .thejollyroger.com

Sea Vista Motel

1521 Ocean Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-2171 seavistamotel.com

Main Street Inn

808 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach 252-955-2227 mainstreetinn.org

Vacation Rentals

A Beach Place Realty

203 S. Topsail Dr. Surf City 910-328-2522 abeachplace.com

Access Realty

13480 NC Hwy 50 Surf City 910- 329-9800 accessthebeach.com

Carolina Stays

790 New River Inlet Rd. North Topsail Beach 833-628-2229 carolinastays.com

Island Real Estate

405 Roland Ave. Surf City 910-328-2323 topsailvacation.com

Lewis Realty Associates, Inc

320 N. New River Dr. Surf City 910-328-5211 vacationsontopsail.com

Sea Coast Rentals

326 N. New River Dr. Surf City 800-334-5806 seacoastrentals.com

Sea Shore Realty Group 302 N New River Dr. Surf City 910-328-3400 eashorerealtync.com

Sea Path Realty

920 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-4201 topsailcottages.com

TI Rentals

118 N. Topsail Dr. Surf City 910- 328-9977 ti-rentals.com

Topsail Realty by Carolina Retreats

712 S. Anderson Blvd. Topsail Beach 910-328-5241 topsail-realty.com

Turtle Shell Vacation Rentals

910-636-7377 Turtleshellrentals@gmail.com

Vacasa Vacation Rentals

14061 B Hwy 50 Surf City 910-328-4444 vacasa.com

Ward Realty 202 S. Topsail Dr. Surf City 910-328-3221 wardrealty.com

Greater Topsail Area

North Topsail Beach Rentals

910-741-9389 northtopsailrentals.com

Topsail Shores Inn

1325 Hwy 210 Sneads Ferry 910-685-0969 topsailshoresinn.com

Seaview Motel and Pier

124 Fishing Pier Ln. North Topsail Beach 910-328-3173 seaviewfishingpier.com

Quality Inn 1565 Hwy 210 Sneads Ferry 910-327-8282 topsailbeachhotel.com

Hampton Inn

1248 Hwy 210 Sneads Ferry hilton.com 910-327-5555

Pender County has the perfect setting for any special occasion including weddings, reunions, anniversary parties, baby and bridal showers. With venues that include beaches, historic sites, and on the farm, we have the location that fits your personal style.

On the Beach

Surf City and Topsail Beach are a beautiful setting for weddings and proposals. No permits are required; however, we do ask that you leave it as you found it and keep all glass away from the beach.

History in the Making

With many historical sites, museums, and a national park all located throughout Pender County, these destinations are sure to include a back in time and memorable experience.

On the Farm

Rustic or elegant, charming barns and groomed fields are sure to o er what you are looking for to make a picture-perfect event complete.

On

Malachi

197 Richard Switch Rd., Currie 910-540-6246

Old Homestead Farm 8824 Highway 117 S, Rocky Point 910-518-6446

Old River Farms 8711 Old River Rd., Burgaw 910-231-7162

Seven Meadows 22549 NC Highway 210, Rocky Point 910-279-0587

Shingleton

904 Saps Rd., Hampstead 910-467-3333

Hall

Hampstead

Pender County Training School Community & Museum Building 1814 Shaw Highway, Rocky Point 910-675-0740

Surf City Welcome & Visitor Center 102 N. Shore Dr., Surf City 910-328-2716

The Cove 112 Triton Ln., Surf City 910-803-0677

Topsail Manor 13480 NC Highway 50/210, Surf City 910-327-2050