Long after summer cools down, water activities are still hot in Onslow County
ONSLOW COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA–AUGUST 2019–Onslow County is a destination full of coastal flavor, family fun and a host of water-related adventure. On the central North Carolina coast, Onslow is located off I-95, north of Wilmington and east of Raleigh and I-40. Amid the miles of beautiful beaches, ocean inlets and barrier islands there is on-the-water excitement for most any interest. Whether your preference is jet skiing in North Topsail or paddle boarding in Swansboro, powering your own kayak or enjoying a leisurely sailing charter, fishing inshore or heading out on the ocean, this is the place to do it. While summer is prime time, many have discovered that fall is a beautiful season to enjoy the beaches, bounty and adventure of this diverse coastal region.
The beach is the perfect place to start and for many, shelling is the perfect beach activity. Locals say the best shelling can be found on Bear Island, a treasure of the beautiful Hammocks Beach State Park (1572 Hammock Beach Road, Swansboro, NC 28584). Access is by water only, via the park’s passenger ferry, private boat or, for the true adventurers, by kayak. This undeveloped island is only three miles long but takes visitors a million miles away, with its unspoiled beaches and native flora and fauna. Overnight camping is available in designated areas, by reservation.
Whether heading out from Hammocks Beach or any of the other access points in Onslow County, kayaking is a great way to enjoy the variety of waterways here. From the intracoastal to the New River to the coastal marshes and open waters, there is a world of water to explore! Paddle NC offers kayak tours and rentals from several locations and Swansboro Paddle Boarding (108 W Corbett Avenue, Swansboro, NC 28584) offers rentals and guided tours, as well as jet ski, pontoon boats and paddle board rentals.
For a more leisurely tour, many choose the luxury of a cruise with Lady Swan Tours(139 Front Street, Swansboro, NC 28584). An outing aboard Marsh Cruises‘ (PO Box 855, Swansboro, North Carolina 28584) 22-foot skiff offers variety, too. Trips can range from shelling and eco-adventures to peaceful nighttime star gazing.
Reel Livin’ Fishing Charters (132 Gull Drive, Sneads Ferry, NC 28460) offers family fun cruises. Net shrimp, crab and marine life visitors to learn about the many amazing creatures of the ocean. As the name implies, they also offer fishing charters.
Of course, there is fishing! And here, anglers will be in heaven! The fishing in fall is amazing, both in variety and in the quality of charter services. Inshore, nearshore and offshore fishing are all popular here and there are plenty of experienced captains and guides to make any trip the best it can be. Whether searching for redfish and flounder inshore or heading out for a big game catch, the captains know where to catch it here.
There’s no better time than fall to enjoy this beautiful stretch of North Carolina’s coast. And, for eco-adventures, family excursions or serious fishing, there’s no better place to be than Onslow County. Visit www.OnlyinOnslow.com for information on where to stay, the best spots to eat and how to plan your trip.
Where to stay Onslow County has a variety of lodging options, from oceanfront resorts to quaint downtown inns. Classic inns and motels, national brands and one-of-a-kind bed and breakfasts are all options throughout Onslow. Check online lodging listings for the best option for that perfect coastal Carolina getaway.