County Highlights Onslow County
Onslow County is a thriving community for all by delivering exceptional services with good governance and fiscal responsibility
Onslow County is located on the southern coast of Eastern North Carolina and home to over 30 miles of beaches, rural farmland, and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. Onslow offers countless outdoor recreational opportunities all year long with beaches, bike trails, and warm weather. As the community of choice in coastal North Carolina, Onslow County offers affordability to residents and visitors alike. It is considered one of the most affordable counties in NC.
Surrounding communities include Jacksonville, the county seat and commercial hub along the New River. Richlands, named literally for its "rich land" offers a more rural, agricultural feel. Further south, Holly Ridge serves as a gateway to nearby beaches and Topsail Island. Swansboro, known as the "Friendly City by the Sea," features a historic waterfront, shops, and easy access to nearby Hammocks Beach State Park. North Topsail Beach, on Topsail Island, draws visitors for its beautiful, non-commercial beaches.
Onslow Tourist Attractions The Best Outdoor Places to Enjoy in Onslow County
Onslow County is home to a number of beautiful outdoor areas—from forests and rivers to beaches and intercoastal waterways. With summer in full swing, it's time to get outdoors and enjoy all that our region has to offer.
North Topsail Beach
If you and your children enjoy a day at the beach, spend an afternoon or weekend leaving the mainland behind and entering vacation mode at North Topsail Beach. With two public access beaches, you'll have plenty of space to sunbathe, build sandcastles, or play catch. North Topsail Beach is one of the best places to play and unwind in Onslow County.
Although beach access is free, parking is not. If you decide to enjoy the beach, parking is $5/hour, $25/day, $100/week, or $250 for an annual fee.
Hammocks Beach State Park
With beautiful trails perfect for hiking and an educational visitor's center that includes an interactive children's exhibit, Hammocks Beach is a wonderful place for families to visit.
When you visit Hammocks Beach State Park, make sure to check out Bear Island: a four-mile-long undeveloped barrier island. It's only accessible via the Park's passenger ferry or, if you're feeling adventurous, by canoe or kayak. Roundtrip tickets for the ferry cost $6 for adult passengers, $4 for child passengers between the age of 3 and 12, and $4 for all senior citizens 62 years or older. Children 2 years and younger ride for free.
Onslow Beach
Located on the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Onslow Beach is open to all authorized DoD ID cardholders with proper base access. If you're a military family in Onslow County, this beach offers rental lodging units, an RV campground, pavilions, volleyball courts, and swimming areas.
Swansboro
Swansboro has historical sites to discover, eclectic shops to explore, and lots of 'family-friendly' recreation like biking, hiking, camping, and outdoor concerts…just to name a few! And, of course, it's always OK to do a little bit of NOTHIN'! After all, you are at the coast!
Onslow Education Onslow County Schools
Onslow County Schools is an above average, public school district located in JACKSONVILLE, NC. It has 27,592 students in grades PK, K-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1. According to state test scores, 46% of students are at least proficient in math and 48% in reading.
The Education Function of the County reflects the County's portion of the operations of the local school system and Coastal Carolina Community College. This includes current expense, capital outlay and debt service on financings to cover cost of school construction for new schools or additions to existing facilities.
Onslow Properties Homes for Sale in Onslow County
Homes for sale in Onslow County, NC, come in a wide range of options, from charming mobile homes in tranquil communities to luxurious farm houses with modern amenities. Popular choices include move-in ready manufactured homes with new carpet and paint, often featuring spacious primary suites, ample closet space, and convenient carports.
Family-friendly neighborhoods provide easy access to local amenities, schools, and recreational activities, making Cowlitz County an attractive area for buyers looking for a community-oriented lifestyle with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy.