The Daily Grind (Surf City, NC)

Great coffee + beach vibes — plus donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and ice cream

If you’re in Surf City / Topsail Island and you want a coffee stop that feels like part of the beach routine, The Daily Grind is a local classic. It’s the kind of place you can swing by for an iced coffee before a walk, grab breakfast on the way to the beach, or treat the whole crew to donuts and ice cream after. 

Quick Details

The Daily Grind (Surf City, NC)
Address: 114 N Topsail Dr, Surf City, NC 28445 
Phone: 910-541-0471 
Website: dailygrindsurfcity.com 
Order Online (pickup): Available through their website (“Order Online For In Store Pick-Up”). 

Hours (as listed)

  • Sunday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
  • Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM 

(Hours can shift seasonally—quick check on their site before you head over is always a good move.)

The vibe

The Daily Grind is very much Surf City energy: casual, friendly, and built for “coffee in hand” living. It’s great for:

  • morning coffee runs before beach time
  • an easy stop between errands
  • a treat spot for families (donuts + ice cream = happy people) 

What they’re known for

1) Specialty coffee + espresso drinks

Their drink menu includes the classics and the beach-day favorites—iced coffee, cold brew, lattes, cappuccinos, chai, matcha, and frappes. 

2) Donuts, pastries, and sweet treats

They’re known locally for fresh donuts and pastries, and they also offer other bakery-style options. 

3) Breakfast (and “real food” options)

If you need more than coffee, their menu includes breakfast-friendly items—perfect for grab-and-go mornings. 

4) Ice cream

Yes, it’s one of those places where everyone can get what they want—coffee for you, ice cream for the kids (or you… no judgment). 

What we’d order (first visit ideas)

A simple “first visit” plan:

  • Iced coffee or cold brew (especially in warm weather) 
  • Add a donut/pastry for the full Daily Grind experience 
  • If you’re hungry hungry: grab a breakfast sandwich (great for busy mornings) 

Pro tip: order ahead for pickup

If you’re squeezing it into a tight schedule, they offer online ordering for in-store pickup through their website menu pages. 

Why we’re spotlighting it

Local spots like The Daily Grind are part of what makes coastal life feel special—quick routines that turn into traditions. A good coffee run can become your favorite part of the morning, especially when it’s paired with a beach walk, a sunset drive, or a weekend reset.