Best Coffee Shops Around Hampstead, NC
- Sandra Chisholm
- Aug 16
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 10
Hampstead, North Carolina, blends coastal charm with a growing suburban feel. It’s an ideal place for families and people who are looking for a quieter lifestyle near the water. But there’s another side to Hampstead that’s just as appealing. It’s the local coffee scene.
Whether you are new to the area or considering a move, be sure to try the best coffee in Hampstead, NC. Once you do, you’ll be coming back for more.
Coffee is a wonderful way to connect with the community and experience the town’s culture. It can help you decide whether this beautiful and inviting town is the perfect place for you. Let’s take a closer look at the “must-visit” coffee places in Hampstead.
Exploring Hampstead, NC: A Coffee Lover’s Guide
Located just north of Wilmington and a short drive from Topsail Island, Hampstead is a growing area that continues to attract people who love a beautiful place and a warm community. Here, you get the best of three worlds: high-rated schools, close-by beaches, and a small-town atmosphere. You can really enjoy a mix of suburban convenience and coastal living.
In Hampstead, local coffee shops do more than serve drinks. They build the community. These spaces become part of your routine. Baristas quickly learn what you love the most and neighbors catch up over lattes.

The Best Coffee in Hampstead, NC: Top Picks
Here is the breakdown of the best and warmest coffee places in Hampstead:
Sundial Coffee and Tea
Sundial Coffee and Tea is one of the most beloved names in the area. With locations in Surf City and Hampstead, Sundial brings a mission-driven approach to every cup. The Hampstead outpost is tucked inside the Iron Clad Beer Garden on Country Club Drive.
Inside, you’ll find the same dedication to craft and community that made the original so popular. The drink menu features house specialties like “The Sundial,” a caramel latte topped with coconut cold foam and a flaky caramel crunch. Pair it with one of their fresh-baked muffins or cookies, made daily by their own in-house bakery.
What sets Sundial apart is its heart. A part of every purchase supports local nonprofits. Meanwhile, the shop regularly hosts events, live music, and pop-up markets.
It’s a place where coffee meets purpose.
Matter More Coffee
Another favorite among locals is Matter More Coffee, located on US-17. This shop was created by Hampstead residents who wanted to build a space for connection, and the result is a warm, welcoming café. As a bonus, it has a drive-thru!
Matter More offers a variety of drinks, including classic drip coffee, flavored lattes, and mochas. A standout on their menu is the signature drinks:
Hot Lavender Matcha Latte
Hot Nutty Irishman
Customers can order ahead through their app, making it a convenient stop for busy mornings. What really defines Matter More is its friendly vibe and locally rooted feel. It’s not flashy or overly trendy but truly authentic.
Bori Café Bar
For something a little different, Bori Café Bar brings a taste of Puerto Rico to Hampstead. This café serves strong, flavorful coffee alongside an array of savory and sweet Puerto Rican bites from their partner food truck, WilmiRicans.
Customers rave about the El Bori cortadito, a bold espresso drink with steamed milk, and the “El Bori Strawberry-white chocolate latte,” their signature house coffee.
In addition to traditional coffee offerings, Bori Café serves beer, wine, and tropical pastries that make for a perfect midday treat. With its colorful decor and upbeat energy, Bori Café is more than a coffee place. It’s a celebration of culture, flavor, and community.
Casa Blanca Coffee Roasters
Just down the road in Wilmington, Casa Blanca Coffee Roasters offers a more refined, roastery-focused experience. Located on Market Street, this café roasts its own beans and takes pride in offering expertly brewed coffee with flavor and depth.
Casa Blanca also serves amazing breakfast burritos, and their banana bread is exquisite. It’s a great weekend destination or a stopover for those commuting between Hampstead and Wilmington. Their rotating selection of beans and brewing methods makes each visit a little different. Meanwhile, the highly visible commitment to quality has made them a go-to for serious coffee lovers across the region.
What to Do in Hampstead, NC: Beyond Coffee
Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, Hampstead and its surrounding areas offer plenty more to explore. Whether you’re into parks or educational fun, you’ll find something that fits your pace.
Here are some top attractions and activities that show what makes life in Hampstead so appealing:
Harbour Village Marina: Located in a private waterfront community, this marina offers fuel services, pump-out stations, and docks along the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a peaceful spot for boating enthusiasts or those who just want to enjoy a sunset over the water.
Topsail Aquarium: Just minutes away in Surf City, this interactive aquarium is perfect for families. All visitors can interact with rays, sharks, and crabs, dig for fossils, and learn about the region’s marine life in a hands-on environment.
Batts Family Park: A beautiful public park in Surf City featuring a 920-foot boardwalk, basketball court, modern playground, picnic shelters, and views of the sound. It’s a favorite for families and anyone looking for fresh air and open space.
Missiles and More Museum: Located in Topsail Beach, this unique museum explores the island’s World War II history, secret missile projects, local pirate lore, and the legacy of women aviators. It’s a fun and educational stop for history buffs and children alike.
Topsail Beach: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, clean beaches, and excellent shelling, Topsail is a quiet beach community. It's the kind of place where time slows down and nature takes center stage.
And this is just the beginning. The place has many attractions for visitors and residents of all ages.
Falling In Love With Hampstead
Hampstead, NC, offers more than great coffee. It offers a lifestyle built around community, comfort, and coastal beauty. Each of the coffee shops reflects the local flavor and friendliness that define the area. Add in activities like visiting the Topsail Aquarium or boating at Harbour Village Marina, and you’ll quickly see why more people are choosing to call Hampstead home.
If you are thinking about moving to the area or just want to know more about what makes Hampstead special, the team at SJC Real Estate is here to help. We live and work in this community and can guide you to the neighborhoods, schools, and local gems that fit your lifestyle.
Contact us today or call (603) 703-3470 to learn more about making Hampstead your next home.


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