Soak It In: A Perfect Beach Day in Surf City, NC (Sunrise to Sunset)

There’s something about Surf City, NC that makes you instantly breathe a little deeper. Maybe it’s the salty breeze off the Atlantic. Maybe it’s the sound of waves meeting the shore. Or maybe it’s the laid-back charm that turns quick visits into full-blown “Why don’t we move here?” conversations.

Whatever the reason, Surf City has mastered the art of the beach day. So if you’ve got 24 hours to spare (or you’re imagining what everyday life could feel like), here’s how to do a perfect Surf City day — from sunrise to sunset.

6:00 AM — Sunrise on the Surf City Pier

Wake up early and head straight to the Surf City Ocean Pier, one of the most iconic sunrise spots in Eastern North Carolina. The colors? Unreal. The vibe? Quiet and magical — with just a few fishermen, early joggers, and sea birds keeping you company.

Bring your coffee. Bring your camera. Bring your breath, because this is where the day begins.

8:00 AM — Surf’s Up (or Stroll, if That’s More Your Speed)

Ready to hit the water? Book a morning surf lesson with a local instructor or just watch the surfers catch waves from the shore. The waters here are mellow, friendly, and beginner-welcoming.

Not into surfing? Take a barefoot walk down the beach instead. You’ll pass colorful beach homes, tide pools, and maybe even spot a dolphin or two off in the distance.

10:30 AM — Breakfast Tacos & Island Vibes

Time to fuel up. Stop by Shaka Taco for their famous breakfast tacos and coastal chill vibes. (Yes, tacos totally count as breakfast at the beach.)

Other local picks? The Daily Grind for coffee and pastries, or Batson’s Galley for hearty Southern breakfast fare with local flavor.

12:00 PM — Turtle Time + Downtown Exploring

Pop into the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center — a nonprofit doing incredible work to protect sea turtles and educate visitors. It’s fun, fascinating, and a Surf City must-do.

Afterward, stroll through Surf City’s local shops and boutiques. Grab a beachy souvenir, browse surf gear, or find that perfect coastal-themed home accent you didn’t know you needed.

2:00 PM — Soundside Adventures

While the beach gets all the love, the sound side of Surf City is a hidden gem.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the peaceful waters, salt marshes, and scenic inlets. It’s calm, quiet, and stunning — a totally different perspective of the town. Pro tip: keep an eye out for herons and ospreys along the way.

5:00 PM — Dinner with a View

When golden hour rolls in, grab dinner at Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille or Sears Landing. Both offer sunset views, seafood that tastes like it came off the boat (because it probably did), and the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget what day it is.

Try the shrimp & grits. Trust us.

7:30 PM — Sunset, Sand, and Slow Down

End the day the way it started — with a view. Head back to the beach with a blanket, or find a quiet spot by the waterway and let the sun do its thing. The sky turns cotton candy pink, the breeze settles in, and just like that, the perfect day winds down.

Locals know: this is the Surf City glow.

Every Day Could Be This Good

For some, this is the dream vacation. For others, it's everyday life. That’s the magic of Surf City — it feels like a getaway, even when it’s home.

And when it comes time to showcase the coastal life — whether you’re listing a home or just sharing your slice of paradise — we’re here to help capture it beautifully.

🌐 See more at www.rileyjonesrem.com

📍 Serving Surf City, Topsail Island, and Eastern NC’s most photogenic places to live.