The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center

Located in Topsail Beach, this open-to-the-public veterinary hospital is a sanctuary for sick and injured sea turtles. During your visit to the center, volunteer staff will give you a tour of the facility and introduce you to their current patients, while explaining their rescue mission. It will be an eye-opening time for kids and adults. A visit to the center is free, but you might run into a long line. The rescue center is open from June through August.

Missiles and More Museum

The Topsail Historical Society operates this educational museum in Topsail Beach. Permanent exhibits include: Operation Bumblebee, including original missiles from the Navy's secret World War II-era guided missile testing program on Topsail Island; an Osprey Aircraft Exhibit, detailing the development of the revolutionary V-22 Osprey aircraft; and a Pirates Exhibit, featuring depictions of 10 infamous pirates including Blackbeard ...