North Topsail Beach Dog Rules, North Carolina | Laws 2025
North Topsail Beach dog rules and policies allow pets on the beach on a leash. This North Carolina pet-friendly beach has one of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Topsail Beach is south of North Topsail Beach, and Surf City is its neighboring town. The shoreline is excellent for guests to search for shells and ancient shark teeth.
The beach is less crowded and has a peaceful atmosphere. It offers some of the best views of sunrises and sunsets. Finding dog-friendly rentals, hotels, and restaurants is easy here. The beach provides a variety of activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, and fishing.
North Topsail Beach Dog Rules, NC
- Dogs must be on a leash.
- Owners should always have control over their dog’s leash.
- The leash can be as long as 25 feet.
- Owners should be responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
- Leash law violations and neglecting to clean up dog waste can result in a fine.
- Please do not keep your dogs inside closed vehicles.
Is North Topsail Beach free?
No, Visitors must pay for parking at all town-controlled areas and can purchase a permit using the SurfCAST by Otto app.

North Topsail Beach Dog Rules, NC
How To Reach North Topsail Beach
- By Flight: The nearest airport is Jacksonville (OAJ) Airport
- By Bus: The nearest bus stops are Jacksonville (E), Military Cutoff Rd NB at Westwood Dr

About Dog-Friendly North Topsail Beach – North Carolina
North Topsail Beach is located in the northern part of Topsail Island and is part of Onslow County. The town’s ‘Nature’s Tranquil Beauty’ tagline perfectly fits this fantastic place. Sunset viewing, swimming, and relaxing sunbathing are ideal activities at this beach.
The nearby North Topsail town park allows dogs, making it an excellent spot to take them for exercise or a walk. Visitors can enjoy watersports such as kayaking, exercising, playing sports, or having a great picnic in nice weather. North Topsail Beach is full of history, from being a critical part of World War II to helping make the ramjet engine.
The beach allows dogs to be walked on a leash by their owners. This place is perfect for viewing wildlife, seeing dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds. Rare views of animals like the bald eagle and alligators can also be observed here.
- Parking: Beach Access 33 parking, Public Beach Access BA13B
- Things To Do: Visit North Topsail Beach Town Park, Topsail Island
- Events: Ocean Fest on October, 4th of July Fireworks
- Dog-Friendly Restaurants: Beach Bum’s Pizza Bar & Grill, Rick’s Restaurant & Sports Bar
- Dog-Friendly Hotels: Hampton Inn Sneads Ferry North Topsail Beach, Topsail Shores In
- Dog-Friendly Rentals: Sea La Vie Topsail, North Topsail Oceanfront Rentals
- Dog Boarding: North Shore Pawville, Sandy Paws Grooming
North Topsail Beach Rules and Regulations
- All kinds of glass materials are forbidden on the beach.
- Beach driving is allowed.
- ATVs, motorcycles, and go-karts are disallowed on the beach.
- Camping on the beach is prohibited.
- Malt beverages and unfortified wines can be consumed on the beach.
- Bonfires and charcoal grills are disallowed. Gas grills are allowed.
- Fireworks are forbidden on the beach.
- Keeping the ocean and beach clean is the visitor’s responsibility.
- Holes that are dug must be filled before leaving the beach.
Caution For Sharks at North Topsail Beach
Sharks are present in the water of North Topsail Beach. Though shark sightings are rare, it is advised to be cautious and take precautions against shark bites.

What is there to do in North Topsail Beach?
Beachgoers can swim, surf, collect shells, shark teeth, watch sunrise, sunbathe, and enjoy other watersports at North Topsail Beach.
Can you drink alcohol on North Topsail Beach?
Yes, you can drink certain types of beers and unfortified wines. Spiritous liquors or Hard drinks consumption on the beach is forbidden. Make sure your beverage is not in a glass container.
What’s the difference between North Topsail Beach and Topsail Beach?
Even though both these beaches are on Topsail Island. The main difference between the two is their location. North Topsail Beach is located on the northern corner, and Topsail Beach is on the southern part of the island.
Conclusion
North Topsail Beach’s dog rules allow owners to take their furry friends on vacation. This North Carolina pet-friendly beach is a great vacation spot for dog lovers. The place is ideal for lazing around. Owners can take their dogs on the beach during sunset to witness the magnificent sight.
Dog Beaches Near North Topsail Beach, North Carolina
- Kure Beach
- Atlantic Beach, North Carolina
- Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
- Wrightsville Beach
- Caswell Beach, North Carolina
- Surf City Beach, North Carolina
- Kill Devil Hills Beach, North Carolina
- Nags Head Beach, North Carolina
- Kitty Hawk Beach, North Carolina
- Corolla Beach, North Carolina
- Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Park, NC
- Bald Head Island, North Carolina
- Holden Beach, North Carolina
- Oak Island Dog Beach, North Carolina
- Sunset Beach