2010 Map of Spicer Bay

About this map

Topsail Island dominates the coastline in this 2010 survey, illustrating the modern development of Onslow County's barrier islands. The map documents the dense residential footprints of coastal communities such as North Topsail Beach, Sea Haven Beach, and Ocean City Beach, contrasted against the preserved marshlands and estuarine environments of Permuda Island and Ashe Island. Inland, the landscape transitions from the open Atlantic Ocean across the Intracoastal Waterway to smaller landings and creek systems. Features like Thomas Landing and Turkey Point mark the interface between the mainland and the sound, while Tar Landing Rd provides primary access to the marshes of Kings Creek. The survey reflects a period of established beach tourism and protected coastal islands just before further 21st-century environmental shifts.