Ocean City Beach:
A Historic Community in North Topsail Beach
Topsail Island is celebrated for its 26 miles of beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and family-friendly communities. Yet hidden within this coastal paradise lies one of the most important cultural landmarks in North Carolina: Ocean City Beach. Established in 1949, Ocean City was one of the first coastal communities in the state where African Americans could buy property and enjoy beach life during an era when segregation excluded them from most other coastal areas.
The Founding of Ocean City Beach
In the years following World War II, African Americans across the South faced significant barriers to property ownership and recreational access. Many North Carolina beaches, particularly those developed for tourism, were off-limits to Black families. Recognizing the need for change, a group of visionaries led by Wilmington physician Dr. Samuel Gray, along with attorney George White Jr. (grandson of Congressman George Henry White), sought to create a community where African American families could gather, vacation, and build generational wealth.
With the help of developer Edgar Yow, they purchased land along Topsail Island and laid out plans for a new neighborhood. Thus, Ocean City Beach was born in 1949—a groundbreaking development that provided African Americans a place to call their own on the North Carolina coast.
A Summer Retreat and Symbol of Freedom
During the 1950s and 1960s, Ocean City quickly became known as a summer retreat for African American professionals, educators, and families. Cottage-style homes dotted the shoreline, and gatherings often centered on cookouts, fishing, and church services.
Ocean City was not simply a beach—it was a symbol of dignity and independence. Families who built homes here were carving out a rare opportunity to enjoy coastal recreation free from the restrictions of segregation. The community represented hope and progress at a time when racial inequality was still deeply entrenched in daily life.
The Role of the Ocean City Fishing Pier
A cornerstone of the community was the Ocean City Fishing Pier, which became both a recreational hub and a landmark for the neighborhood. Families and visitors fished, socialized, and enjoyed ocean breezes while reinforcing Ocean City’s reputation as a true family destination. Although storms over the decades damaged and reshaped the pier, its legacy remains tied to the identity of Ocean City.
Cultural Legacy and Preservation
Ocean City Beach has endured through hurricanes, shifting tourism trends, and the pressures of coastal development. Many of the original families still return each year, preserving the strong sense of heritage and community.
In recognition of its cultural importance, Ocean City Beach has been highlighted by preservation groups, including the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. Local and state historians now work to ensure Ocean City’s story remains part of North Carolina’s larger coastal history, preserving it for future generations.
The Ocean City Jazz Festival
One of the most prominent celebrations of this heritage is the Ocean City Jazz Festival, held annually each summer. The event blends live music, food, and storytelling, drawing visitors from across the state and beyond. More than entertainment, the festival honors the vision of Ocean City’s founders and celebrates African American contributions to Topsail Island’s identity.
Ocean City Beach Today
Modern Ocean City is a mix of longtime family homes, vacation rentals, and newcomers who appreciate the area’s quiet charm. While it continues to evolve, the neighborhood retains its historical significance. It remains a place where community values, cultural pride, and coastal beauty intersect.
Why Ocean City Beach Matters
Ocean City Beach stands as a powerful reminder of how determination and vision can overcome barriers. Its founders created not only a physical community but also a legacy of resilience, opportunity, and cultural pride. For visitors to Topsail Island, learning about Ocean City offers a deeper understanding of the island’s history—one shaped not only by natural beauty but also by the courage and perseverance of those who built a place of their own.
Visiting Ocean City Beach
- Location: Along New River Inlet Road, North Topsail Beach, NC
- Best Time to Visit: During the annual Ocean City Jazz Festival (summer)
Attractions: Primarily a residential community, but open for visitors to appreciate its history, attend events, and explore the surrounding beach environment
About the Author
Written by J.L. Wells, a longtime Topsail Island resident and owner-operator of multiple local small businesses serving the Topsail Island area. With firsthand experience living and working on the island, J.L. Wells provides practical, locally grounded insight into Topsail Island’s towns, beaches, and year-round coastal living.