Fairfield Harbour is an attractive, established community along the Neuse River
Fairfield Harbour is a secluded North Carolina coastal destination established as a boating community along the Neuse River in the 1970s. A golf course was subsequently added. Today, it is sought after for its resort-style amenities, appealing housing and safe, attractive setting. “It’s the only gated community in Craven County,” says Steve Hall, who lives in Fairfield Harbour with his wife and works at Century 21 Zaytoun-Raines in neighboring New Bern. “It’s predominately retirees and those preparing to retire, although it is getting younger. It was all retirees around us when we moved in seven years ago, but more families are moving in, and now there are four kids across the street.”
Waterfront, golf course homes highlight diverse housing options
The community offers an array of residential options. Golf course and waterfront homes stand out among the housing stock, which includes homes built from the early 1980s through the present day. The waterfront offerings alone feature a diverse mix of sizes and styles. Large portions of the community’s shoreline are filled with private boat docks. Several homes offer more wooded settings, especially those on the north and east sides of the community. Prices range from under $200,000 to more than $800,000. Condominiums can also be found, with prices ranging from under $100,000 to the high $200,000s. Monthly HOA fees for both are in the $100 range. Homeowners should be aware that insurance rates are likely to be affected by the high risk of flooding and wind damage, especially during hurricane season. Hall says residents are a “tight-knit group,” adding that Fairfield Harbour is a “community where neighbors care for neighbors.” It’s the kind of place where neighbors will keep watch on the house and collect the mail of the local Realtor when he and his wife are on vacation. Or run errands if they are not feeling well. “Back in the COVID days, my wife and I both had it,” Hall says. “You could leave your credit card out on the porch and neighbors would do your grocery shopping. … “Overall, neighbors put their hands out to help those in need. It’s wonderful.”
Northwest Creek Marina is the anchor of a community initially built for boaters
Northwest Creek Marina is the literal anchor of the community. Construction began on the marina in 1978, when Fairfield Harbour consisted of nothing more than a security gate and a few homes. Today, the marina has nearly 300 slips. It is located along an inlet of the river and provides appealing access to the amenities of nearby New Bern as well as the Intracoastal Waterway and the open waters of the Atlantic. Adjacent to the marina is the community’s recreation center. Amenities include a pool, athletic courts and miniature golf. The Harbour Pointe golf course started in the mid-1980s with nine holes. An additional nine holes were subsequently added. Harbour Pointe Golf Club is now an established destination that features a par-72, 6,600-yard, 18-hole course. Unlike the community’s other amenities, it is open to the public. The Fairfield Harbour Community Center is a quaint facility used for social gatherings and performances. “We have our own community theater and our own choral group,” Hall says. “There are over 90 clubs and organizations in Fairfield. If you like Mah jong, there’s a Mah jong club. There’s bible study and reading groups. Groups for Republicans and Democrats. You name it, you can find it.” The Harbour Club, a new community center, is under construction. The 14,000-square-foot venue will expand the scope of community events and activities.
Residents travel to the charming town of New Bern for dining and more
Downtown New Bern is a historic commercial district full of attractions and friendly people just across the river, about a 20-minute drive from the community. “When people come by my office, I have a challenge for them,” Hall says. “I say walk around the block, and if you don’t get at least five good-mornings, great-to-see-yous, how-are-you-doings and have-a-good-days, I’ll buy you lunch at any restaurant in New Bern. I’ve bought one lunch in seven years.” Morgan’s Tavern & Grill, The Chelsea and Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant are among the notable dining destinations. Other popular stops include highly rated drinking establishments, boutique stores and antique shops. The district is also home to theaters, museums and a historic site dedicated to the invention of Pepsi-Cola. The New Bern Mall is about a 15-mile drive, and several grocery stores are nearby.
Craven County schools are located in New Bern
Students would typically attend a pipeline of Bridgeton Elementary, West Craven Middle and West Craven High schools. The elementary and middle schools are rated C-plus by Niche, and the high school is rated B-minus. The high school offers several Career & Technical Education courses.
Secluded community offers easy access to amenities across the river
Broad Creek Road is the only way in and out of this car-dependent community. It provides convenient access to the amenities of New Bern. “From my front door, across the river to downtown New Bern is about 12 miles,” Hall says. “It’s 4 miles if you go by boat.” New Bern’s CarolinaEast Medical Center has been recognized for its outstanding work in cardiac and cancer care. Coastal Carolina Regional Airport is in neighboring James City.
The 24-hour, guard gated community has a CAP Index score of 1-out-of-10, signifying the lowest crime rate possible.
Written By
Matt Pallister
