Topsail Vs Outerbanks NC vacation

[poohlover]

We are in the process of planning of beach vacation to NC. We have adult children in both Jacksonville and Wilmington, however I am wondering if we would have more to do in the outer banks? Likely would end up being 12 ish people adult to 17 years old.

Looking for ideas of possible activities. We are thinking to rent a beach front home, it's been years since we have had a beach vacation. Generally we enjoy hiking more, however this seems too good to pass up to get the whole family together.

Would it be possible to rent kayaks for a week anywhere?

Thanks for any information you all can offer!

 

[disney4us2002]

We've vacationed in both Topsail and Outerbanks (Nags Head area mostly) and we prefer OBX. There just wasn't a lot to do in the Topsail area although there were quite a few good restaurants. For rentals we have always gotten bikes for the week through Moneysworth Rentals. They rent all kinds of stuff. For a great website with message boards, try OBXConnection.com - it's a friendly group and many of the regulars there own homes in the OBX and have lots of info and experience. The website for moneysworth is rentbeachequipment dot com.

 

[mtemm]

We've spent the last 2 summer vacations in OBX (pine island/Corolla & Duck). Last year we rented kayak and paddle board for the week at a place right in downtown duck. Tons of places to rent stuff. Love OBX, but this summer we are doing a hiking trip instead. Love mountains too, but I'm going to miss beach week!

 

[QueenIsabella]

I think it depends on the kind of vacation you're looking for. If you're planning for the 12 of you to basically hang out together all week, it might be better in Topsail. OTOH, if the house is more of a hub, where everyone goes out and does their own thing each day, then reconnects in the evening, OBX is probably a better choice, due to more attractions in the area.

 

[poohlover]

Thanks for all the information! I think we will more stick together as this may be a last "family" vacation. Thanks for the info about. I def want to try paddleboarding!