Southport offers river views, mild winters and movie magic
The small North Carolina town of Southport sits at the mouth of the Cape Fear river, along the Intracoastal Waterway, giving those who live here easy access to the Atlantic Ocean for both recreation and work. But this community of 4,400 is so famous for its shoreside vistas, mild winters and oak-shaded streets that it has become a Hollywood favorite, providing the settings for several movies and TV shows, including “A Walk to Remember,” “I Know What You Did Last Summer” and “Dawson’s Creek.”
“If you just look up all the movies done here, that'll give you a story in its own,” says local Ronnie Russell, Realtor with Century 21 Collective. “Southport is a magical little town.”
Ferries link Southport to historic islands and scenic beaches
Two regular ferries run from Southport to the nearby Pleasure Island and Bald Head Island, the latter of which is home to Old Baldy, the oldest lighthouse in the state. The island is an iconic vacation destination with 10,000 acres of natural scenery, including pristine beaches. Pleasure Island has the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, a historic beachfront destination popular for surf fishing and more. Fort Fisher was a major player during the Civil War, protecting the Confederacy’s last open supply line; it fell to the Union a few months before General Robert E. Lee’s surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant. Southport also has several scenic spots on the mainland, including Southport Waterfront Park, a 9-acre space near the Southport Fishing Pier and Riverwalk.
Ancient oaks and storm-tested homes define the landscape
Southport is known for its verdant coastal landscape. Russell says some of the live oaks here are between 600 and 800 years old. “When you think about the old trees and houses here, and how many storms they’ve endured, it’s amazing.”
The median price here is around $450,000, with most homes sitting on dense lots rich with mature greenery. The community has a charming mix of historic properties, from early 1900s cottages, bungalows and Victorian Revivals to midcentury brick homes and ranch-style houses.
There are also many newer properties, including Cape Cods, modern farmhouses, contemporary cottages and new construction properties. Hurricane season on the Atlantic coast ranges from June to November. Waterfront residences and other homes in special flood zones require flood insurance.
Students can start college early through dual enrollment
Brunswick County Schools earns a B on Niche. Southport Elementary gets a B-plus. South Brunswick Middle and South Brunswick High both earn B grades. The high school offers dual enrollment with Brunswick Community College, roughly 20 miles away.
Boaters can dock near seafood cafes and riverside hangouts
Southport Market is the main grocery store in the community’s historic downtown. The area has plenty of dock space, making it easily accessible for boaters. Yacht Basin Drive is studded by waterfront seafood spots like Fishy Fishy Cafe, a staple since 1998, and the family-owned and -operated Provision Company. “American Fish Company doesn’t have food, but you can drink, listen to live music and watch ships go by,” Russell says. “The containment ships look absolutely huge when you’re sitting out there.” More restaurants, shops and stores are up Howe Street, including Walmart Super Center. Dosher Memorial Hospital is also on the main road.
Southport residents rely on cars for the Wilmington commute
Southport is car-dependent. Howe Street, also known as North Carolina Highway 211, connects to River Road, North Carolina Highway 87, a main leg of the drive to Wilmington or Wilmington International Airport, less than 35 miles away.
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Written By
Micaela Willoughby
