Condo

Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo

Photo gallery for Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo

Topsail Dunes, Building #3
Welcome to the Pelican Pad!
Room
Room
Living area

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Top rated beach location
    Discover paradise at this top rated beach location.
  • Pickleball on-site
    A rare find — enjoy pickleball without leaving the property.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to North Topsail Beach
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Balcony
  • Outdoor pool
  • Toys
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
North Topsail Beach, NC
  • Place, North Topsail Beach
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Seaview Pier
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Camp Lejeune Main Gate and Visitor Center
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Airport, Jacksonville, NC (OAJ-Albert J. Ellis)
    ‪52 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Common area 1

2 Single Bunk Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo

Let your worries wash away with the tides and feel your heart soar at the Pelican Pad. It's the best of both worlds--a 3rd floor unit with a gorgeous ocean view PLUS the only building in the Topsail Dunes complex with an elevator to save your backs as you load in and out! This is a privately owned and managed unit, and we live just down the road, so you will have VIP status leading up to and during your stay! The Pelican Pad is our only rental property and future retirement home, so we love it just as much as you will!

This one-bed (queen), one-bath condo is perfect for a romantic getaway or small family adventure! Have a couple kiddos? The unit also features twin bunk beds.

Full disclosure: the Pelican Pad is charming but not updated. We clean the unit from top to bottom between each rental, but it is not "sparkling" due to typical wear and tear of a beach rental. We price the condo to be affordable to visitors, and as a result, annual rental income falls just short of covering the mortgage/HOA. Until the economy shifts, we do not have the means to fund major updates. And honestly, we kind of like it how it is! We stock a variety of bathroom and bedroom linens, but if you are particular about thread count, you should bring your own! The queen bed is nice and comfy. The sofa bed is a typical sofa bed--manage your expectations! Anyhow, you'll probably want to spend most of your time taking in the gorgeous view on the balcony, stocked with a table and chairs plus a pair of raised "captain's chairs."

The "Pad" is stocked with some welcome snacks as well as a couple waters in the fridge, or capri suns for the young ones if you indicate renter ages on your reservation. The restroom is stocked with a few emergency items.

This property is maintained and managed entirely by a full-time elementary teacher/local theater volunteer/parent. In the summers, I work on updating a website where I try to keep up a list of recommended restaurants, shopping, and activities! You will receive the link your welcome package email.

The condo complex features a private pool and direct beach access. Look under the bunk beds to find a beach cart, beach chairs, and a fun variety of beach toys!

On the soundside of the building, you will find a well-kept communal area with covered picnic tables, playground equipment, horseshoes, lawn bowling, and basketball.

Enjoy some fun in the sun year-round, and visit every year to make it a beloved Topsail Island tradition! Just one hour from historic Wilmington, NC, if you are looking for a fun day trip, but you're probably not going to want to leave the Pelican Pad for long.

Property amenities: Beach access w/outdoor shower, private swimming pool, outdoor picnic and play area, private parking lot

Unit amenities: HVAC, wifi, 2 TVs (one is a "smart TV"), DVD player with some DVDs, hair dryer, cable, books and games, linens (for queen, bunks, & sofa), towels (bath, kitchen, & beach), washer/dryer, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, stove/oven, toaster oven, traditional toaster, blender, slow cooker, basic kitchen/dining supplies, basic soaps, TP & paper towels, beach toys, first aid kit, emergency sunscreen & bug spray, welcome basket with snacks & bottles of water, coffee/tea station

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 22
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Leave keys, pool wristbands, and parking hangtags in the unit. Lock the door and pull it shut behind you.
Put all dirty linens in the bathtub.
Optional but would be lovely: Wash and put away dishes, use available broom and dustpan to remove excess sand from unit.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Be mindful of your downstairs neighbors. Please refrain from dance battles, pogo sticking, and aggressive hopping. LOL
Be mindful of your patio neighbors. No smoking, even on the balcony. Use your "library voices" on the patio after 9pm, per our HOA.
Do your best to minimize bringing sand into the unit by using the outdoor showers, etc. No sandy towels or garments in the washing machine, please.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2972302vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Sneads Ferry

Located in North Topsail Beach, this condo is on the beach. Thurston Art Gallery and Seacoast Art Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at North Shore Golf Course and Sneads Ferry Marina. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and ecotours nearby.
Map
North Topsail Beach, NC

What's nearby

  • North Topsail Beach - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Seaview Pier - 4 min drive - 4.9 km
  • Surf City Beach - 7 min drive - 8.6 km
  • Marine Corps Air Station New River - 32 min drive - 45.7 km
  • Camp Lejeune Main Gate and Visitor Center - 43 min drive - 61.2 km

Getting around

  • Jacksonville, NC (OAJ-Albert J. Ellis) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪River View Cafe - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Red Pepper - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Spiaggia Ristobar - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Cancun Mexican - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Fun in the Sun on Topsail Island at the Pelican Pad: A cozy oceanfront condo located?

Nestled on the beach, this North Topsail Beach condo building is 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from North Topsail Beach and 2.3 mi (3.7 km) from Seaview Pier. Surf City Beach and North Shore Golf Course are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 75 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 75 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 75 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 75 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 75 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Sheree M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoyed staying at this condo.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Angie S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness
Overall pleasant experience. Unit needs some updating and maintenance attention. Host was extremely responsive. Location to the beach was perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Appreciated renter's communication and honesty! Some concerns have already been addressed. Property description was updated to manage expectations. Major updates continue to be on hold until rental income can fund them.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ginger V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place! Excellent location and the beach was amazing!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Magean W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot in a beautiful place!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicki _.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect access to the beach and pool, with beautiful views of the ocean. We enjoyed our stay thoroughly.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Catrina K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was wonderful!! Great location and view of the ocean! My only hiccup was that the bunk beds are made more so for kids, not anyone adult size as it’s very shallow from one bunk to the one above and can’t stretch out. The sofa pull out mattress is very springy which the alternative of the couch is again the leg room is not there for an adult size person. Everything else was great. Master bedroom mattress was wonderful! The walls are also very thin making for a lot of noise which woke us up a few times from the people above. All in all, made the most of it and very responsive host!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and quiet. Easy check in and check.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Corey J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was great. All was as expected. Place was clean and welcoming. More than everything you would need for a wonderful beach stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Felicia S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Stay

We had an amazing stay at this location. The property was perfect for our family. It had wonderful views, and the beach access was so nice. Would definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short stop

Was a nice place to stay minus the thunder and fire alarm…lol. Would gladly stay here again
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxation

Really impressed with the property in the location and the cleanliness and the friendliness and just a five star experience
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cortney P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

We enjoyed our stay at the Pelican Pad so much! It was clean, the host was responsive, and the ease of check in and check out was wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Top Sail Getaway

Great visit
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ardena G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beach Trip

Very relaxing - amazing view from the balcony - Overall a wonderful vacation!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay.

Very nice place to get away & relax. Check in & check out procedures were simple & well documented. Host was very responsive & nice to all questions.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooklyn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location!

I enjoy relaxing while at the beach as opposed to being in the midst of hustle and bustle and this was a great place to do just that! Not too far of a drive to some fantastic restaurants, and in a great spot where the beach wasn’t over crowded. Very much enjoyed our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Jessica W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute and clean

My family and I had a great time here this summer. It had everything we needed and then some! The only thing was that the bedroom always seemed to be warmer than the rest of the place, even at night.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Duane W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great view and location

We enjoyed our stay! It had a nice view and sound of the ocean. We could not get the Wifi to work while we were at the condo. Everything else was as described.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Everette

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
In the immediate area there are just places t stay which we liked. There are plenty of places to visit and eat about 12 miles away. We loved this place. Easy access to the beach and great view from the balcony.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place to stay for a couple

This unit was very clean and was well stocked with everything we needed. Was just the right size for a couple.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Buffy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay and the unit was super cute and cozy. The elevator only worked about half the time we were there and that would be the only negative I would mention, and that is not the fault of the owner of the unit we stayed in.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Host has gone above and beyond with making this place feel like home.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Getaway

The property was clean and had good amenities. Our host was wonderful and the price was reasonable. Love the location looking at the ocean
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Denise W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

weekend trip

it was perfect, cozy really enjoyed it. nice and clean and great view.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Look no further!

Great location, one of the most well equipped rentals I've stayed in, totally charming. Host was extremely accessible and communicative and made great recommendations. Will definitely be staying again!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

About the host

Hosted by Davonna Thomas

Host profile image
The Thomas family has lived in North Carolina since 2014. Davonna is an elementary music teacher, Jeff is a city planner, and Cameron is a student at Dixon High School. Davonna also volunteers with the Topsail Island Sea Turtle Patrol and Ferry Tales Youth Theater.

Why they chose this property

The Pelican Pad is our future retirement beach home, and it is our only rental property. We live right down the road in Sneads Ferry and self-manage the condo, so you can't find a more personal touch.

What makes this property unique

Davonna is working on a website just for Pelican Pad guests with recommendations for local food and activities: https://pelicanpad.wordpress.com/.

Languages:

English

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