North Carolina's scenic beaches are one of the state's biggest attractions. Convenient access to the coast may be a factor in your decision to purchase property in the Jacksonville, NC, region. So, how far is the beach from Jacksonville, NC?
You're in luck. North Carolina's stunning coastline sits just a short drive away, ideal for a day trip with the family or a romantic weekend getaway with your S.O. In this article, CRI Properties is going to tell you how far the beach is from Jacksonville, NC, and tell you about some of the other local attractions.
Distance to Popular Beaches from Jacksonville
There are many beaches located just South of the city. How far the beach is from Jacksonville, NC, depends on your destination.
Here's a breakdown of distances to the area's most popular beaches:
North Topsail Beach: 23 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Surf City: 28 miles (approximately 35-40 minutes)
Emerald Isle: 31 miles (approximately 45 minutes)
Onslow Beach on Camp Lejeune: 16 miles (approximately 25 minutes, military access required)
Hammocks Beach State Park: 25 miles (approximately 35 minutes)
These driving times can vary based on traffic conditions, especially during summer months and holiday weekends.
North Topsail Beach: The Closest Option
North Topsail Beach is the closest beach to Jacksonville, NC. Located just 23 miles east of Jacksonville, this beach offers several attractions:
Wide, clean shorelines that are perfect for sunbathing.
Less crowded conditions than many other NC beaches.
Free public parking areas (though limited in peak season).
Several public access points with facilities.
Family-friendly atmosphere with gentle waves.
The trip takes about 30 minutes via Highway 17 and NC-210. Once you arrive, there's no shortage of things to do:
Fishing from the Seaview Fishing Pier.
Searching for the famous Topsail Island sea glass.
Visiting the Missiles and More Museum.
Watching for sea turtles during nesting season.
Fresh seafood dining at local restaurants.
For families, the beach offers natural entertainment with gentle waves suitable for younger children and shell collecting opportunities along the shore.
Onslow Beach: Military Access Option
Onslow Beach is located at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. Located about 16 miles from Jacksonville, NC, it’s the closest option for military personnel and their guests.
Unlike the other beaches on our list, military ID or sponsored access is required for entry. If you're an eligible visitor, this beach provides the quickest coastal access from Jacksonville. In addition to pristine beaches, Onslow Beach features a Marine Mart (convenience store), pavilions with changing rooms, volleyball courts, basketball courts, and conference rooms ideal for any special event. Dogs are welcome as well!
Hammocks Beach State Park: Worth the Extra Miles
Another beach that's not far from Jacksonville, NC, is Hammocks Beach State Park. Though slightly farther at about 35 minutes away, the longer trip is worth it. This unique destination offers ferry rides to pristine Bear Island, undeveloped beach landscapes, and excellent kayaking opportunities.
The park provides a more natural beach experience than developed areas, making the extra few minutes of driving worthwhile for nature enthusiasts.
Planning Your Beach Trip from Jacksonville
Consider these tips when planning your visit to one of the nearby Jacksonville, NC, beaches:
Check tide schedules before departing.
Monitor weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season.
Pack essentials as beach services remain limited in some areas.
Bring cash for parking at certain beach access points.
Consider weekday visits to avoid traffic congestion.
It's important to allow for extra travel time during the peak summer season. During the summer months, leaving Jacksonville before 9 AM helps avoid the worst traffic and secures better parking options. Highway 17 and NC-210 often experience congestion during this time of year.
The Best Times to Visit Jacksonville Area Beaches
Time your beach trip to maximize your beach experience:
Arrive in the early morning (before 10 AM) to beat the traffic and secure parking.
Plan your trip for a weekday- you'll enjoy less crowded conditions and easier access.
The best time of year to visit is late April through May, right before it gets hot and crowded.
Another good time is September through October. The water's still warm, and the crowds have gone home.
Jacksonville Attractions When Beach Days Don't Work Out
Sometimes the weather might interfere with beach plans, regardless of how far the beach is from Jacksonville, NC. Fortunately, there are a number of local attractions and activities to enjoy if your beach day doesn't work out as planned. These include:
Lejeune Memorial Gardens and the Beirut Memorial
Lynnwood Park Zoo
Fishstrong Foundation Park with kayak launches
Jacksonville Commons Recreation Complex
Freedom Fountain in downtown Jacksonville
There are also several unique dining and shopping establishments in the Jacksonville area.
Real Estate Opportunities Near Beaches
Many real estate investors want to know how far the beach is from Jacksonville, NC, because beach proximity impacts investment potential. Properties along routes to popular beaches often enjoy increased seasonal business opportunities, higher visibility to tourist traffic, and potential for beach-related services.
At CRI Properties, our team helps investors identify strategic locations that capitalize on beach proximity while maintaining the advantages of Jacksonville's stable economy.
Real Estate Considerations: Beach Proximity
While not located on the shoreline, Jacksonville properties offer significant advantages over beachfront options:
Lower purchase prices compared to coastal properties.
Reduced insurance costs away from flood zones.
Year-round business potential beyond tourist seasons.
Proximity to a military base provides a stable customer base.
Less vulnerability to hurricane damage.
These factors make Jacksonville property attractive to investors seeking coastal market exposure without coastal property risks.
Conclusion: Beach Access from Jacksonville
Whether you're visiting the area, considering relocation, or exploring real estate opportunities, Jacksonville's proximity to multiple beaches adds significant value. The short drive to coastal recreation combines with the city's stable economy to create an attractive location for businesses and residents.
At CRI Properties, we help clients leverage Jacksonville's strategic position near beautiful North Carolina beaches. Our team provides insights into location advantages, property values, and investment potential throughout the area.
Contact us today at (910) 455-2860 or visit our office at 829 Gum Branch Rd # A, Jacksonville, NC 28540 to learn more about Jacksonville's real estate opportunities and how beach proximity might benefit your investment strategy.
