Onslow County Tourism

Onslow County Tourism Welcome to Onslow County, North Carolina where heroes are our heritage and nature is our playground.
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From historical memorials and museums to water recreation and agritourism attractions, a visitor will find their country in this coastal town. Onslow is one of North Carolina's oldest counties, and its past reflects a rich and varied history. Named after Arthur Onslow, early settlements in the area occurred along the fertile waterways of Bear Creek and the White Oak and New Rivers. COMMUNITY GUIDE

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The ultimate summer weekend is here! Not only is it the official First Day of Summer, but it is also Father’s Day—making...
06/21/2026

The ultimate summer weekend is here! Not only is it the official First Day of Summer, but it is also Father’s Day—making it the perfect excuse to celebrate the incredible dads and father figures in our lives with a classic coastal day out. 🌊☀️👨‍👦

Onslow County offers endless ways to show Dad some appreciation while soaking up the longest day of the year. Whether his perfect day looks like hitting the water early for a peaceful morning of fishing, paddling through the scenic marshlands, playing a round of golf, or simply firing up the grill surrounded by family, our beautiful corner of North Carolina has it all. 🎣⛳🍔

Take some time today to slow down, enjoy the sunshine, and let the dads in your life know just how much they mean to you. Happy Father’s Day, and welcome to summer! 🌴🐚

Looking for the perfect way to experience Onslow’s Great Outdoors this summer? Getting out on the water is one of the be...
06/20/2026

Looking for the perfect way to experience Onslow’s Great Outdoors this summer? Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to explore our beautiful county. 🛶🌊

Whether you are an expert kayaker or a beginner looking for an easy, relaxing afternoon on a stand-up paddleboard, we have incredible access points scattered all throughout our region. You can coast along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway in Swansboro, paddle the protected waters around Hammocks Beach State Park, explore the marshes at North Topsail Beach, or navigate the scenic New River right in Jacksonville.

If you don't have your own gear, there is no need to worry. Our local outfitters and outposts have you completely covered with rentals, equipment, and even guided tours to show you the best hidden spots along the way.

Grab a paddle and hit the water for a perfect coastal day! ☀️

Get ready for three unforgettable days of jazz, culture, and coastal soul! 🎷🌊 The annual Ocean City Jazz Festival retur...
06/19/2026

Get ready for three unforgettable days of jazz, culture, and coastal soul! 🎷🌊 The annual Ocean City Jazz Festival returns to North Topsail Beach this July, celebrating its monumental "Sweet 16" anniversary.

More than just an incredible music festival, this landmark event commemorates the 1949 founding of the Ocean City Community—the very first coastal property in North Carolina developed for African Americans to buy and own, established a full 15 years before the Civil Rights Act.

This year's festival is committed to presenting the gold standard of jazz, bringing together an extraordinary lineup of world-class artists to unite music lovers, foster cultural awareness, and honor the rich heritage of Ocean City Beach. Grab your tickets and lawn chairs to enjoy amazing live performances right by the ocean from top-tier talent, including Kirk Whalum, Eric Darius, Blake Aaron, and many more! 🎵✨

🌴 Festival Schedule & Info:
🗓️ When: July 3–5, 2026
⏰ Friday: Gates open at 5:00 PM | Show starts at 6:00 PM
⏰ Saturday & Sunday: Gates open at 4:00 PM | Show starts at 5:00 PM
📍 Where: Ocean City Community, North Topsail Beach, NC
🎟️ Features: Live concerts, a Kids Zone, artisan vendors, food trucks, and the "Grist & Glory" Heritage Bourbon Experience (July 3–4).

Bring your beach chair and kick off your Wednesday mornings from 9 am to 10 am at Onslow County Beach Access #2 for Bea...
06/18/2026

Bring your beach chair and kick off your Wednesday mornings from 9 am to 10 am at Onslow County Beach Access #2 for Beach Breaks with Onslow Tourism. You'll get the scoop on upcoming cultural festivals, the historic America 250 celebrations, local wildlife facts, and handy beach safety tips. Plus, a chance to win some prizes and receive discounts to local businesses.

We are launching the series on June 24th with guest presentation from the NC Polynesian Festival (North Carolina Pacific Arts Festival) and Jacksonville Ospreys.

Learn more here: https://www.onlyinonslow.com/event/beach-breaks-with-onslow-tourism/

The Jacksonville Ospreys have teamed up with the Carolina Museum of the Marine for “Once a Marine, Always a Marine Night...
06/17/2026

The Jacksonville Ospreys have teamed up with the Carolina Museum of the Marine for “Once a Marine, Always a Marine Night." This isn't just a game—it’s a powerful tribute to the pride, grit, and unbreakable camaraderie of the Marine Corps.

Saturday, June 20th
Gates open: 5:30 PM | First pitch: 6:30 PM
BONUS: The first 250 fans get a FREE Commemorative Challenge Coin!

We are also celebrating the historic 2026 opening of the Carolina Museum of the Marine. Come out, honor the legacy, and feel the spirit. See you at the ballpark! ⚾️🇺🇸

Tickets: https://jacksonvilleospreys.ticketspice.com/2026-tickets

Slowing down over a warm mug and fresh-baked bread is exactly what makes Honey and Leaven Co the perfect spotlight for t...
06/16/2026

Slowing down over a warm mug and fresh-baked bread is exactly what makes Honey and Leaven Co the perfect spotlight for this Tasty Tuesday! 🥐☕

Rooted in a mission of faith, hospitality, and intentionality, Honey & Leaven Co. serves as more than just a coffee shop and bakery—it is a true neighborhood gathering place. Everything on the menu, from their early morning pastries to afternoon coffee breaks, is crafted with exceptional quality, care, and love.

The name itself reflects their community vision: Honey for the sweetness of shared friendships, and Leaven for the quiet growth that transforms simple elements into something nourishing.

If looking to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy week, this is the ultimate spot to let conversations linger and enjoy a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Check them out this week to experience their incredible scratch-made treats and heartwarming hospitality firsthand! 👋🌾

📍 Where: 8700 Richlands Hwy Suite B, Richlands, NC
📞 Phone: (910) 430-0148

Juneteenth is happening soon! ✊🏾❤️ We reflect on and celebrate freedom, heritage, and the profound history, culture, and...
06/15/2026

Juneteenth is happening soon! ✊🏾❤️ We reflect on and celebrate freedom, heritage, and the profound history, culture, and contributions of African Americans.

The celebration continues this weekend right here in Onslow County at the annual Juneteenth Heritage Festival with Onslow County Parks and Recreation! Taking place this Sunday, June 21st, at Onslow Pines Park, this vibrant community event brings people together for a spectacular day of cultural pride, live music, local art, and incredible food vendors.

It is the perfect weekend outing for the whole family, featuring dynamic live entertainment, unique local shopping, and engaging cultural experiences for all ages. Pack your lawn chairs and blankets, grab your friends, and head out to the park this Sunday evening to celebrate heritage and community spirit together! 🎶✨

☀️ Event Details:
🗓️ When: Sunday, June 21, 2026 | Starting at 5:00 PM
📍 Where: Onslow Pines Park (1250 Onslow Pines Road, Jacksonville)
🎟️ Admission: Open to the public!

06/13/2026

🎨 Arts by the Sea Festival – Downtown Swansboro is happening now!

Join the town in beautiful Downtown Swansboro for the annual Arts by the Sea Festival, a full day of art, food, music, and community fun.

Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Historic Downtown Swansboro

Heading to the coast this week? Let’s keep beach safety top of mind! 🌊🎒The ocean is beautiful but powerful. Before divin...
06/13/2026

Heading to the coast this week? Let’s keep beach safety top of mind! 🌊🎒The ocean is beautiful but powerful. Before diving into the surf, remember these quick safety rules:

1️⃣ Check the surf forecast before you go, and always pay attention to posted beach warning flags.
2️⃣ If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore. Rip currents pull you out, not under. Conserve your energy, float, and follow the shoreline until you escape the pull.
3️⃣ When in doubt, don’t go out. If the surf looks rough or choppy, enjoy the views from the sand instead.
4️⃣ Keep it flat. If your family digs holes in the sand, always fill them completely back in before you leave. Deep holes are hazardous for walking beachgoers, emergency vehicles, and nesting sea turtles!

Have fun, stay safe, and respect the water! 🩴🦀

Address

1099 Gum Branch Road
Jacksonville, NC
28540

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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