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Meet Kevin
I’m Kevin Reopelle, Public Affairs Manager for Onslow County, and though I was born and raised in Fuquay-Varina, the North Topsail Beach area has been home for nearly 20 years. My wife and I have raised two boys (plus a couple of dogs) who’ve grown up on the water, in the sand and under some of the best sunsets you’ll find anywhere. We’re big fans of beach days, boat rides and laid-back fall weekends. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, there’s always room to make more memories — and Onslow’s got the space (and pace) to do it.
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More room to wander
- Beaches: If you're coming to Onslow County in fall, the water is still warm and the beaches are less crowded. Hit up an Onslow County beach access on Topsail Island and enjoy a stretch of sand all to yourself. The parking lots are big, parking is free, and the restrooms are clean and convenient.
- Mike's Farm: This is a can't-miss stop in any season, but fall is your chance to hop on an old-fashioned hayride to the pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Once you've grabbed your gourd, ride back to enjoy family-style meals at the restaurant and get a jump-start on your Christmas shopping at the gift shop. You can find local products and items from all over NC that make great gifts. Pro tip: Bring some quarters for the animal feed vending machines. There's no shortage of goats or other livestock to feed, and your little ones will love it.
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More to see (and sea)
- Beachcombing: Our family loves to scour any of the Onslow County beaches for sand dollars and shark teeth. If you know what to look for you can find a trove of treasures from the sea.
- Kayaking: For those a bit more adventurous, there's great kayaking everywhere there's water. Paddle NC can get you launched in Swansboro to explore the White Oak River and check out Bear Island. Downtown Jacksonville has kayak vending machines to get you on the water in the New River.
- New River activities: I love this river. It's surrounded by miles of a mostly undeveloped military base, so the water is clean and the fish are biting. You can catch the best sunsets in Onslow County while sitting on the banks of the river. Rent a kayak at the Jacksonville Landing boat launch and you never know what you'll see. In between the bridges I've seen dolphins, otters and alligators — but never all at the same time!
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More flavor in every bite
- Jeff’s Burgers: This is a locally loved burger joint where everyone is welcome. They have the best french fries in Jacksonville, and the staff remembers your order as soon you walk in the door. The burgers are great, and don’t sleep on their old-fashioned milkshakes. They are always a hit with our boys.
- The Boro: This waterfront spot in historic Swansboro has great views and great food. The outdoor seating is wonderful, especially in the evening underneath the string lights. There’s no better spot to grab a beer or a bite as you people watch the visitors checking out the shops downtown.