For more than 20 years, my family has vacationed on Topsail Island which is located off the southern coast of North Carolina. First, let's get one thing straight, its not pronounced "Top-SAIL" like the spelling leads you to believe. It is pronounced "Top-SUL." While it is not as well known as the Outer Banks, or Hilton Head, the Island has plenty to offer and doesn't come with the crowds that are experienced at the two former destinations. If you ever find yourself vacationing in Topsail, NC, here are five of my favorite activities to do there.

1. Visit Topsail Island Trading Company

Located in the middle of the island in Surf City, Topsail Island Trading Company sells a variety of merchandise from t-shirts, jewelry, and cute kitchen gadgets. What I really go for, however, is their fudge. With over 100 different flavors to choose from, it is the best fudge I've ever had. Words don't do it justice so you'll have to try some for yourself. You can visit in person or order the fudge online at https://www.tideandweather.com/.

While it was once located on the Island of Topsail, the new facilities are located a few miles across the bridge on the mainland. Staffed by all volunteers, the center is dedicated to the conservation and protection of all marine turtles. During your tour, you will learn about the plight of all sea turtles and the threat of their extinction, as well as meet some of the sea turtles the center has rescued and is rehabilitating. More information on the Topsail Turtle Project can be found at their website :http://www.seaturtlehospital.org/

3. Go Fishing with Topsail Fishing Charters

Located on the Southern Tip of the Island on Topsail Beach, Topsail Fishing Charters offer half day fishing trips, kid's fishing trips, and evening cruises. Aboard the Queen Jean on the half day fishing trip, you are likely to catch Black Sea Bass, a variety of snapper, triggerfish, grouper, mahi mahi, mackeral, and maybe even a shark.

4. Search for Sharks Teeth

Hidden amongst the crushed sea shells, the ocean leaves behind on the sand is something most beach goers don't think about ... shark's teeth. It is one of my favorite activities to do on the beach, but finding sharks teeth can be a little challenging at first. I recommend searching for them during low tide, when you're able to see the tide line, where all the crushed sea shells and debris are on the sand. With a variety of different shapes, they are usually black,smooth, shiny, and triangular. But be careful, crushed black sea shells and rocks can resemble sharks teeth.

5. Enjoying the Beach

In my experience, the beaches of Topsail Island are not very crowded. The swarm of people found at Ocean City, NJ? Doesn't exist in Topsail. However, life guards are not on duty on these beaches, so swim with great caution.