Winnabow is a mainly rural community with several developing subdivisions
The suburbs are coming to Winnabow, a historically rural community with expansive natural areas and outstretched country roads. Pockets of the country community have transitioned to classic subdivisions with quarter-acre lots, sidewalk-lined streets and newly constructed homes. Through its changes, the community retains its rural feel. "When you come out of Leland and drive past the subdivisions, you'll head through the rural country," says local Realtor Christine Cronick of Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage. She's sold homes across the region for over 23 years. "Highway 133 is a two-lane country road that takes you past marshlands and toward the beaches." She emphasizes that much of the draw is in its location. "You're halfway between Wilmington and the beach; it's a good location," Cronick says.
Subdivisions and homes on large lots
Winnabow has widely varied housing options. "With the address Winnabow, you could have farmland, you could be in a subdivision or you could be on the river," Cronick says. Most recently sold homes and active listings are in subdivisions like Westport and Country Walk. Many subdivisions feature newly or recently constructed homes that typically list from $100,000 to $500,000. The Westport community features several homes that measure over 2,000 square feet, selling from $500,000 to $920,000. Many homes here are custom, ranging from mid-century ranch-style homes to contemporary colonials and townhomes. Several properties measure at least five acres of land outside subdivisions, and a 28-tract currently lists for $2.5 million. Properties along the Cape Fear River rarely come up on the market.
South Brunswick High School offers a Career and College Promise Program
The Brunswick County School District scores an overall B on Niche and serves over 13,000 students. The community is zoned for several elementary and middle schools. Bolivia Elementary School has a B on Niche, and Town Creek Elementary School has a B-plus. Niche gives Town Creek Middle School a B-minus and South Brunswick Middle School a B. South Brunswick High School features a Career and College Promise Program, offering dual enrollment opportunities through a partnership with Brunswick Community College. Niche gives the high school a B.
Nature parks and preserves with ample hiking trails
Winnabow is a large green area with several spots popular for hiking or bike rides. Cronick likes to hike the trails at Brunswick Nature Park. "We hike there all the time," she says. A lot of people like to kayak there, too." The park sprawls across 911 acres of wetlands, vistas and waterways, and wildlife is abundant; Cronick says it's common to see an alligator. The Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve offers more undeveloped trails stretched across its 174-acre tract. The preserve's winding trails are shaded by towering hickory, loblolly pine and oak trees. Town Creek District Park is a hub of community athletics, featuring sports facilities like baseball fields and basketball courts. The ocean is accessible at Oak Island, about 18 miles away.
Shopping in Leland and waterfront dining in Southport
Winnabow's retail options are limited to the few stores along U.S. Route 17, including Dollar General. Cronick says locals head to nearby towns to shop or dine. "Once you leave Leland, there's not going to be a grocery store until you get to Southport," she says. "Harris Teeter and Walmart are in Leland, which is very close by." Walmart is about 7 miles north of Winnabow and is near several restaurants. San Felipe Mexican Restaurant offers staples like fajitas and chiles rellenos. Southport offers several waterfront restaurants about 18 miles south. Fishy Fishy Café has fresh seafood, outdoor seating and live music.
Heading into Wilmington
Winnabow is a car-dependent community connected to nearby towns by U.S. Route 17 and State Route 133. Interstate 140 is accessible just a few miles north. Wilmington is about 16 miles away, and North Myrtle Beach is a 45-mile trip. New Hanover Regional Medical Center is one of the nearest hospitals, about 15 miles away. Wilmington International Airport is around 16 miles northeast of the community.
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Written By
Brennen Martin
