Vacation rentals in Surf City

Book unique vacation rentals, houses, and more on Airbnb

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Popular amenities for Surf City vacation rentals

Stay near Surf City's top sights

Shaka Taco148 locals recommend
Daddy Mac's Beach Grille120 locals recommend
Sears Landing93 locals recommend
Salty Turtle Beer Co..87 locals recommend
The Daily Grind Surf City57 locals recommend
Fractured Prune52 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Surf City

  • Total rentals

    930 properties

  • Total number of reviews

    23K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    760 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    380 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    260 properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    410 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 410 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 380 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • How much does it cost to stay in apartment rentals in Surf City?

    Experience the best of Surf City with our apartment rentals, starting at about $80 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 260 vacation homes with pools in Surf City, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!

  • Do house rentals in Surf City have a gym?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 house rentals with a gym in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do townhouse rentals in Surf City have wifi?

    Absolutely! We offer over 100 townhouse rentals with wifi in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Surf City have self check-in?

    Absolutely! We offer over 130 house rentals with self check-in in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do apartment rentals in Surf City have a bbq area?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 apartment rentals with a bbq area in Surf City. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Are there family-friendly cottage rentals in Surf City?

    Surf City has more than 20 family-friendly cottage rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.

  • What are the most popular amenities for House Rentals in Surf City?

    Enhance your stay in our House Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 110 homes with a bbq area, over 10 homes with a gym, over 550 homes with wifi, over 130 homes with self check-in, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.

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