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Meet Salem
Hey, y'all! I'm Salem Clarke, Onslow County Tourism Manager, and I've called North Carolina home for the past 16 years since graduating from UNCG. I grew up in Texas, but I came here in 2008 for college and never left — the fact that I could reach both the mountains and the sea so easily sealed the deal, along with the people and the outdoors that keep me here still.
I'm drawn to anything on the water: dolphins, oystercatchers, sea turtles, you name it. I love North Topsail Beach, Swansboro and Sneads Ferry areas especially for the quiet beaches, the nature and a food scene shaped by our military community's diversity. Onslow checks every box for me: international food, outdoor adventures, cultural events like the Onslow Veterans Pow Wow and small-town charm, plus the chance to meet people with genuinely unique stories. Fall here means fresh Stump Sound oysters, Sneads Ferry shrimp, and weekends at Mike's Farm or the local seafood festivals.
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Riverview Cafe
Riverview Cafe serves fresh local seafood and holds the title of oldest restaurant in Onslow County. It's part of the Onslow Hushpuppy Trail, dishing out traditional Southern hushpuppies alongside seafood that's long been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Order the fried shrimp and Stump Sound oysters, both pulled straight from local waters, and save room for homemade pie — the lemon meringue is a must. Check the daily specials while you're there, and grab a table with a water view if you can.
Topsail Island Brewing
Topsail Island Brewing is one of my favorite spots for a craft beer, and the menu changes weekly. I love grabbing a seat outside, watching the ducks on the pond, and playing a round of 9-hole putt-putt right at the brewery, most of it shaded too. They've got something going on almost every night, including live music on weekends — check their events calendar. Bring friends or your pup, and order food from Rick's Restaurant out front. It's veteran-owned, with taps shaped like bullets. Visit in October for North Carolina Beer Month and grab an Oktoberfest.
Villa Capriani
Villa Capriani sits right on the water, with a relaxing pool, easy parking and a great restaurant on-site (Splash by the Sea). Book a room with a balcony so you can catch sunrise with your coffee, or head straight down to the beach. Spend the day between the pool, the hot tubs and the shoreline, then grab dinner at Splash by the Sea — the tuna nachos are a must, especially out on the patio. Afterward, walk down to the beach for a slow sunset stroll.
Seaview Fishing Pier
Start your morning at Seaview Fishing Pier and Restaurant. Grab breakfast inside, then head out to watch the sunrise from the pier — a day pass to walk on is just $2. If you want to fish, you can rent a pole and grab a day fishing pass right there; anglers reel in drums, trout, bluefish and king or Spanish mackerel. I love just strolling the pier and chatting with people who've traveled from all over to love this area as much as I do. Keep an eye on the water, too — sharks and dolphins pass by often enough to make it worth the watch.
Topsail Intracoastal Adventures
Go on an eco-tour with Topsail Intracoastal Adventures, choosing from pontoons like Bougie Blue, Dive Deck, Pup Pontoon or Shoal Stoppa. When the water's warm, jump in for a swim, try some cast netting or hunt for shells; otherwise, just cruise the waterways watching for osprey, eagles and dolphins. I love any excuse to be on a boat, especially when wildlife shows up. Pack your own snacks and drinks, bring up to six people, and hit the restroom before boarding since there isn't one onboard. Sunset cruises are an option too. Parking is limited to a vehicle or two, so the crew will help coordinate where to park.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is small and intimate, serving up traditional ramen and fresh sushi on plates as colorful as they are flavorful. I recommend the pork katsu with a miso base and the Salmon Lover Set (a salmon roll), and I love the Thai tea. As someone who enjoys international food, this place always hits. Parking and seating are both limited, so plan ahead.
Hammocks Beach State Park
I love Hammocks Beach State Park, from the hiking trails to the ferry ride out to Bear Island. Spot wildlife like egrets, dolphins and my favorite, the oystercatcher. Ferry tickets run Friday through Sunday, first come first served — arrive early, or rent a kayak from Paddle NC to explore the marshlands and barrier island instead. Look for shark teeth either way. Trails stay open year-round, and the park runs educational programs worth building a visit around. Pack sunscreen, bug spray and good shoes — it's a half-mile walk from the ferry to the beach. While you’re here, be sure to explore responsibly.
Downtown Swansboro
Explore the shops, dining and restaurants of downtown Swansboro. Grab coffee or a drink at Bake Bottle Brew with a water view, or a sweet drink from Dini's Martini. For dinner, head to Boro Restaurant and try the shrimp and grits with watermelon salsa and goat cheese. Stop into Salt Marsh Cottage for coastal decor while you're at it. Be sure to say hello to the locals: the Muscovy ducks, or as I affectionately call them “the ugly ducks." But be sure not to feed them.
Crystal Coast Ghost
I love the stories and history behind Crystal Coast Ghost tours in downtown Swansboro. The guides are fantastic and personable, and the nighttime walking tour is a fun way to explore downtown with water views along the route. It's a 90-minute walk, so wear good shoes — and it's an especially fun pick for the fall season. It’s a great way to close out the day.
Coffee Haven
My go-to coffee spot at the beach is Coffee Haven, where I always get the Salty Beach drink, and my friend swears by the Fruity Pebbles. Order at the drive-thru or head inside, where you'll also find a small shop and dairy-free options. They roll out new drink specials every month, all in keeping with their motto: Serve coffee and spread kindness.
Up for more adventures in the North Topsail Beach area? Find your outdoor oasis on a long weekend getaway.
This itinerary was produced in partnership with Onslow County Tourism.