Holly Ridge: Gateway to Topsail Island
What once was just a pitstop on a road trip to the beach is now an idyllic small town that some even call home—Holly Ridge. Affectionately known as the "Gateway to Topsail Island," Holly Ridge is only a 20-minute drive from the sandy beaches of Topsail Island. Somewhat of a two-street town, Holly Ridge is anchored by the intersection of West Ocean Road and Wilmington Highway. And while this town may have a modest population of just over 2,400 residents, Holly Ridge has filled the hearts of many and become a place to stay forever!
Ready to see what all Holly Ridge has to offer? Let's explore!
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Holly Ridge at a Glance
Quick Facts
Population: 2,420
County: Onslow
Zip Code: 28445
Median Home Value: $238,800
Travel & Commute
Topsail Beach: 20 mins
Surf City: 10 mins
Sneads Ferry: 20 mins
Major Roads: US 17, NC 50
Holly Ridge Area Attractions
Everything You'll LOVE in Holly Ridge
Top employers
Back in 1940, Holly Ridge had 28 residents until three years later when the establishment of the Camp Davis made the town's population surge to around 110,000 residents. Once a military aircraft training center, Camp Davis now doubles as an industrial park, plus a strong contributor to Holly Ridge's economy. The industrial park's largest tenants are Onslow Bay Boatworks and Gulfstream Steel & Supply, with Atlantic Seafood in the process of planning a 63,000-square-foot facility. Holly Ridge's top employer is J&J Snack Foods, a national niche snack food provider.
Specialty shops
There's some sort of inexplicable excitement you feel when you shop at a thrift store—maybe it's the overall anticipation or the gut feeling that you're going to find something great. Either way, you can channel this exact feeling at 3 Sisters Garage Sale, where shopping through the racks is like searching for hidden treasure. And if you really think you have an eye for uncovering hidden gems, then you have to visit Above Topsail, the local portrait studio. Here, you'll find stunning local artwork that can perfectly accessorize your home, office, or wedding venue.
Solid education
Holly Ridge residents are served by Onslow County Schools, which is the 11th largest school district in the state of North Carolina. The district has 39 educational facilities, including 20 elementary schools, eight middle schools, and seven high schools. Currently, there are about 27,000 students enrolled, which has increased by an average of 300 students per year. Holly Ridge students are zoned to Dixon elementary, middle, and high schools.
Classic dining
Holly Ridge's culinary scene is as classic as the town itself, with coffee and sandwich shops, a Southern BBQ joint, and of course, a fresh seafood restaurant. City Café fuels Holly Ridge residents with strong cups of joe and homestyle breakfast items. Another breakfast spot, Deli Works serves an all-inclusive breakfast platter that will surely fill your belly—plus, we've heard their soup, salad, and sandwich lunch combos really hit the spot. And if you can handle the heat of cajun-style seafood, then we recommend dinner with a view at Holland's Shelter Creek Restaurant.
Ready to Find Home in Holly Ridge?
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