
Vacation rentals in Surf City
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Surf City
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Vacation rentals for every style
Get the amount of space that is right for you
Popular amenities for Surf City vacation rentals
Other great vacation rentals in Surf City

Emerald Cay East, Spinnaker's Reach, Emerald Isle

Family friendly & great location

Newly Built & Enhanced: Game Room, Beach &King Bed

Blue Surf

The Great Wave

The Toucan Townhouse

Beautiful cottage a short stroll to the ocean

Oceanview Condo, Pool, 2 min walk to the sand
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Surf City
Total rentals
970 properties
Total number of reviews
23K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
780 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
400 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
300 properties have a pool
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
390 properties have a dedicated workspace
Your guide to Surf City
All About Surf City
This quiet coastal town located on Topsail Island — a 26-mile barrier island off the coast of North Carolina — combines peaceful beaches with consistently good conditions for surfing. According to local legend, pirate ships used to be a common sight here. Until World War II, Topsail Island was only accessible by boat, but there are now two bridges that connect it to the mainland. Surf City is a small, walkable section in the middle of the island with a laid-back vibe and a smattering of casual restaurants and independent shops, and a turtle rehab and rescue center.
Head to Surfside Beach at sunrise for a glimpse of surfers riding the waves, and if you’re traveling with your pooch, the nearby town of North Topsail Beach offers a number of dog-friendly beaches. The third town on the island, Topsail Beach, on the south end of the island, is even smaller and quieter, with fewer than 500 year-round residents and a skyline free of high-rise buildings.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Surf City
The best times of year to book rentals in Surf City is from mid-April to early June and mid-September to late October, when temperatures tend to be mild. October’s OceanFest is Surf City’s biggest event, a beachside live music, arts, surf, and eco festival to benefit the ocean. The month also sees the town’s lively Octoberfest and a fun run. Summer brings live music, a shrimp festival, and movies in the park — but bear in mind that the higher temperatures can be challenging for the uninitiated.
Top things to do in Surf City
Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center
Locals have worked tirelessly since 1996 to achieve their dream of protecting sea turtles on Topsail Island. The center cares for sick and injured sea turtles, returning them to the wild if they are able. Tours and educational programs run over the summer months to raise money for this non-profit’s conservation operation.
Surf City Ocean Pier
Built in 1948, the Surf City Pier was Topsail Island’s first ocean pier. After being destroyed by Hurricane Fran in 1996, it reopened the next year with improvements for local fishermen including fish cleaning stations, lighting for night fishing, and a tackle shop. There’s also a grill and outside dining area for laid-back dinners with a perfect view of the ocean.
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Sandwiched between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Fisher is a scenic hour’s drive south of Surf City. As a protected shoreline, developments here are limited to a visitor center, boardwalk, and other essential facilities. Sweeping sands for peaceful strolls sit alongside hiking trails and marshes for birdwatching and spotting sea turtles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Surf City?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 390 vacation rentals in Surf City featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Surf City?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Surf City. Choose from more than 400 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
How much does it cost to stay in boutique hotel rentals in Surf City?
Experience the best of Surf City with our boutique hotel rentals, starting at about $160 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.
Are there Surf City vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?
Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 300 vacation homes with pools in Surf City, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!
Do boutique hotel rentals in Surf City have wifi?
Absolutely! We offer over 40 boutique hotel rentals with wifi in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do condo rentals in Surf City have a gym?
Absolutely! We offer over 30 condo rentals with a gym in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do apartment rentals in Surf City have self check-in?
Absolutely! We offer over 10 apartment rentals with self check-in in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Do house rentals in Surf City have a bbq area?
Absolutely! We offer over 110 house rentals with a bbq area in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.
Are there family-friendly house rentals in Surf City?
Surf City has more than 570 family-friendly house rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.
What are the most popular amenities for Apartment Rentals in Surf City?
Enhance your stay in our Apartment Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 40 homes with wifi, over 10 homes with a bbq area, over 10 homes with self check-in, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.
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- Onslow Beach
- Sea Gull Public Beach Access
- Scallop Public Beach Access
- South Beach
- Seahorse Public Beach Access
- Carolina Beach Lake Park
- Soundside Park
- Airlie Gardens
- Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
- Salt Marsh Public Beach Access
- North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
- Hamlet Public Beach Acces
- Hurst Beach
- Surf City Pier
- Long Beach
- Oak Island Lighthouse
- Bay Beach
- East Beach
- Carolina Beach State Park
- Lake Public Beach Access
- Periwinkle Public Beach Access
- Pelican Public Beach Access
- Sandpiper Public Beach Access
- Sea Haven Beach