Best beach near New River Marine Air Base? (Wilmington, Jacksonville: camp, restaurants)

[pharmamama]

My 19 yo nephew is newly stationed at New River Marine base. My kids (14 and 12) were going to head down to the beach this Saturday and we are picking up my nephew for the day. Which best is the best for a 19 yo, 14 yo, and 12 yo? Wrightsville? Top Sail? Other suggestions?

[poppydog]

I think Topsail (pronounced Top-sull, not Top Sail) would be fine, or Emerald Isle. Wrightsville is good, too, but it would be a little bit further away from Jacksonville. You'd need to elaborate a little more about what makes a beach "best" for your crew to get more specific recommendations. Some people like lots of amusements and rides and things to do. Some people want to get away from it all.

[evaofnc]

Topsail for sure. My favorite beaches around here without making the trek to the Outer Banks.

[goldenage1]

Originally Posted by poppydog

You'd need to elaborate a little more about what makes a beach "best" for your crew to get more specific recommendations.

Agreed. Surf City (part of Topsail Island) has restaurants, souvenir shops and amusements. North Topsail has almost nothing except the fishing pier. I suspect your kids would prefer Surf City.

[macjr82]

Honestly, If you have your nephew you with you can go to Onslow Beach on Camp Lejeune. He's probably going to want to show you around mainside anyway so you'll already be close. It's right off of NC 172/Sneads Ferry road. You won't hear too many peopel mention it because non-federally employed civilians have not been able to access it since 9/11.

Onslow Beach - MCCS Camp Lejeune

Emerald Isle is real touristy but that may be what you're looking for. Hammocks Beach, in Swansboro is rarely mentioned but is less crowded than other beaches: N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation: - Welcome to Hammocks Beach State Park

If you don't do Onslow Beach. I'd go with Bogue Banks/Crystal Coast. You have the aquarium, Beaufort Waterfront and maritime museum across the bridge, Fort Macon, plus all of the miniature golf places. Or the Wilmington area beaches, you have the Battleship, and another aquarium at Fort Fisher, plus downtown Wilmington to stroll around. YOu will fight more crowds at the Wilmington area beaches, though. Btw, Bogue banks equal Emeral Isle, Salter Path, Pine Knoll Shores,Indian Beach, and Atlantic Beach with Fort Macon at the Eastern tip.
Crystal Coast NC | Outer Banks