Local guide · Surf City
Surf City Ocean Pier
Topsail Island’s first ocean pier was built in 1948, and the same family has run it since 1973. Rebuilt after Hurricane Fran, the 937-foot pier is open around the clock in season for sunrise walks, night fishing and burgers at the pier grill.
Why families go
Sunrise and sunset from the end of the pier are what visitors remember. The pier house staff are especially helpful to kids trying fishing for the first time. Non-anglers can walk out for a small spectator fee. The grill and ice cream counter make it an easy family stop. Parking nearby is paid and fills early on summer days.
Don’t miss
- A sunrise or sunset walkOut to the octagon at the end of the pier.
- Fishing without a licenseThe pier’s blanket license covers anglers; rod rentals available.
- #ReelKidsFishThursday mornings in July, kids under 16 fish free with instruction and prizes.
- The SCP GrillFresh-ground burgers and ice cream with covered outdoor seating.
Before you go
- Open 24 hours in season; closed December to mid-March.
- Pier lot parking is only for pier customers; beachgoers use Surf City’s paid parking.
Plan your visit
- Where: 112 S. Shore Dr., Surf City, NC 28445
- From Topsail: On the island in central Surf City.
- Hours: In season, 24 hours a day; closed December to mid-March.
- Admission: Small spectator fee to walk out; paid fishing passes.
- Official site: surfcityoceanpier.com
- More nearby: more family fun in Surf City
Staying nearby? Browse our Surf City vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.
Based on official information from the attraction and on recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Hours, seasons and prices change, so confirm before you go.