Dig deeper to find beautifully untapped Onslow County, North Carolina, where secret gems are as plentiful as grains of white sand
Find a restful retreat in the white sandy beaches of Onslow County, North Carolina. Located off I-95, north of Wilmington and east of Raleigh and I-40, Onslow County is made up of five cities, characterized by serene marshes, pristine beaches and steeped in both African American and rich military histories. Sail away and get lost in this natural playground, refuel with delicious eats and learn a thing or two about the past while relishing in the present.
Outdoor Fun
Onslow County is home to three different beaches, one of which is a stunning secluded island. No matter which beach you choose to explore, you won’t need to worry about fighting the crowds, as these shores are relatively untouched, perfect for getting away from it all. Grab a book and run your toes through the picturesque sands and the dark blue waters. Speed up the pace by renting a boat. Glide through the natural waterways on a kayak or paddleboard, take a spin on a speed or pontoon boat or take a seat and cruise on a guided dolphin or sunset tour. Satisfy cravings for seafood at its freshest–cast a line in the salt waters and catch your dinner! Species are plentiful with speckled trout, flounder, red drum, bluefish, cobia, king mackerel and various other catches. Feeling sea logged? Head to dry land and rent bikes, take a quiet stroll on the nature trails, or hit the links at one of the many challenging golf courses throughout these charming coastal cities. For beach and rental information, visit OnlyInOnslow.com/Outdoor
Local History
Onslow has a rich military history. Dive into North Carolina’s Civil War history during your visit with Swansboro Historical Society’s educational walking tour.
Climb aboard a boat and venture to Huggins Island. This state-owned property is the site of a Confederate six-gun fort. Burned by Union soldiers in 1862, visitors can still see the remains today.
Step onto the sacred grounds of Verona Loop National Cemetery. The cemetery was built for African Americans whose bodies were initially buried on Camp Lejeune. These hallowed grounds hold the remains of an estimated 639 African Americans, including headstones dating to the early 1800s, some of which are marked by only name and the title “slave.”
There are also several museums and memorials to honor the area’s deep connection to the more recent United States’ military history. The National Montford Point Marine Museum displays the largest collection of photos, documents, papers and artifacts of the Montford Point Marines–the marine’s first African American members. There were an estimated 20,000 Montford Point Marines who trained at Camp Lejune from 1942 to 1949.
Nestled in the tall pines of Lejeune Memorial Gardens is the Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial. These glass panels feature all 58,000 soldiers and personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country while serving in Vietnam. This grand tribute is one of the largest Vietnam memorials in the nation.
You can’t leave Jacksonville without visiting the Beirut Memorial. This solemn tribute honors the 273 Marines who gave the last full measure of devotion in Lebanon and Grenada on October 23, 1983, during a terrorist attack. Many of the fallen marines were stationed at Camp Lejeune and lived in Onslow County. The names of each service member are engraved in a granite wall, along with the words “They Came in Peace.” The memorial also has a beautiful bronze statue encompassing the bravery of the fallen. For history tours, museums and memorial information, visit OnlyInOnslow.com/History
Eats and Sips
Onslow County offers a trail of culinary delights suited to everyone’s tastes. From casual and authentic North Carolina barbecue, to fresh seafood at renowned waterfront restaurants, to adventurous ethnic fare, treat the taste buds to their own tour. Eat with purpose at Mission BBQ. The owners are two friends who have a mission in mind: to make the best barbecue in the country and honor service members while doing it. Bill and Newt traveled across the United States sampling the country’s greatest barbecue before opening up their own restaurant. Savor Texas slow smoked Brisket, St. Louis-inspired baby back ribs and traditional North Carolina pulled pork.
Set the GPS for Il Cigno Italiano, an elegant waterfront restaurant featuring European cuisine. Warmth flows through this historic Swansboro spot with its wood-paneled walls and floors, stone fireplaces and covered, wrap-around porch. House-made Italian specialties include fresh mozzarella, pappardelle pasta, gnocchi and gelato. Round out your Mediterranean journey at Marrakesh Mediterranean Restaurant, which has an undeniably authentic and fun atmosphere, complete with belly dancers on select nights! Your taste buds will have their own party, with flavorful dishes like salmon kabobs, schwarma and couscous. For more restaurant information, visit OnlyInOnslow.com/restaurants
Dip in for a sip at North Carolina’s premier whiskey distillery–Walton’s Distillery. This locally owned production crafts smooth corn whiskeys and moonshine. Tours are open six days a week. Come explore this unique facility, meet the distillery gang and peruse the gift shop. Check the calendar and plan your trip around one of Walton’s Distillery’s Open House nights, which include live music, food and free tours. WaltonsDistillery.com
Topsail Island Brewing is a locals’ favorite, family-owned brewery and taproom. Its 16 taps feature a changing list of mostly house-made beers with a few rotating guest brews. In addition to beers, they offer cider, wine, sodas, water and even juice boxes. A regular schedule of events is always on tap to add to the fun. They include Sunday Market Days, cornhole league play and live music. topsailbrewingco.com
Onslow County is also home to Huffman Vineyards. The owners handcraft their wine in small batches, creating superior flavor. Sip on dry classics like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and sweet favorites like cherry and blueberry blends. Wine tastings are available 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., Wednesday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday. HuffmanVineyards.com
Where to Stay
Find the perfect place to lay your head at one of Onslow County’s many lodging options. From exquisite beachfront resorts, charming rental homes, quaint bed and breakfasts to familiar favorite hotels, RV parks and campgrounds, sweet dreams await you in Onslow County. Book a room at OnlyInOnslow.com/Lodging/
Save The Date
Plan your trip to beautiful Onslow County, North Carolina, around one of the area’s acclaimed events.
In June, indulge in Arts By the Sea. This waterfront festival features arts, crafts, delicious food, wine tastings, stories, children’s entertainment and other fun activities. SwansboroFestivals.com
Seafood lovers, don’t miss the Sneads Ferry Shrimp Fest in August. In addition to all the shrimp you can eat, enjoy a car show, parade, corn hole tournament, live music and more. SneadsFerryShrimpFestival.org
October brings the Swansboro Mullet Festival. This two-day event packs in the fun as well as the fish. There are more than 40 vendors to shop and plenty of competition to take on in the Mullet Toss, the Mullet Hair Contest and the Movin’ Mullet 5K. Live entertainment schedule highlights the weekend. swansborofestivals.com/mullet-festival
No matter what you choose to do in Onslow County, North Carolina, relaxation awaits around every dune, adventure excites at every historic point and unique eats are more than fuel for your journey.