Local guide · Surf City
Topsail Aquarium
A few steps from the Surf City beach, this small, locally owned aquarium is all about getting hands-on. It has nearly 100 species, scheduled animal encounters, stingray feedings, and night-time ghost crab hunts on the beach in summer.
Why families go
Families love how hands-on it is. Kids pet stingrays, small sharks, sea stars and horseshoe crabs, and the staff are patient with endless questions. Be clear about the size: it’s small, and most families spend 30 minutes to an hour. That makes it an ideal short outing with little ones, or a break from the sun, without leaving the island.
Don’t miss
- Stingray Snack TimeHands-on stingray feeding on Wednesdays and Fridays at noon; book ahead, spots are limited.
- Animal encountersDaily scheduled chances to touch the animals with a guide.
- The octopus and the sharksBamboo sharks, rays and a resident octopus are favorites.
- Ghost Crab HuntsFlashlight hunts on the beach on summer evenings, leaving from the aquarium.
- The upstairs Kid ZoneA creative space and insect exhibit for little ones.
Photos: Topsail Aquarium
Before you go
- Closed Sunday.
- Only the orange-curb spaces out front are aquarium parking; nearby spaces are paid or private.
- Rinse sunscreen off hands before touching animals. The Kid Zone is upstairs; the ground floor is accessible.
Plan your visit
- Where: 106 N. Topsail Dr., Surf City, NC 28445
- From Topsail: On the island in central Surf City.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday.
- Admission: Paid at the door; 2 and under free. Stingray feedings and crab hunts are extra.
- Tickets: Tickets and programs
- Official site: topsailaquarium.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.