To visit Southport, North Carolina is to take a step back in time. The town was founded in 1792 and is rich in stories, especially for its small size and slow-growth philosophy. The best of old and new, Southport offers a slice of history as well as modern amenities. There is much that's been written about Southport, but even more to see in person. The Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic at this unforgettable spot -- a coastal gem like no other in the Carolinas and a place you will never want to leave once you have visited.

While Southport, NC is often described as "quaint", don't be fooled by the town's sleepy exterior. Despite all of its historical appeal and the look of another era, Southport is modern in its schools, hospital, and specialized business district. There is so much to do here— from learning about Southport's storied maritime history at the North Carolina Maritime Museum, to browsing galleries and antique shops, or dining at one of the area's many fine restaurants. In Southport, you can stroll down the historical streets under sprawling oaks, see stately old homes, or greet your neighbors on a balmy summer evening. Imagine watching the sailboats and sunsets from Waterfront Park and indulging in the area's freshest shrimp from the dockside markets (fishermen still prefer these waters). In Southport, you can take in its village quaintness and the grandeur of a bygone era.

Since Southport is centrally located on the Cape Fear River Basin, you will be able to visit the best that Coastal Carolina has to offer with a short drive in nearly any direction. You can hop on a ferry to Bald Head Island, famous for its lighthouse, pirate lore, maritime forests and pristine beaches. Or how about exploring 13 miles of beach and sea turtle habitat areas on Oak Island? You could head to Wilmington, NC (30 minutes up the road) for professional theater, fine-art museum, minor league baseball, shopping malls, and a 200-block historic district.

Just minutes from Southport are the St. James and Winding River golf communities-- the best coastal North Carolina has to offer in quality living. St. James has been rated as one of the top 20 planned communities by New Choices magazine, and Winding River was cited as one of the top 50 new communities in the United States. Where To Retire magazine has also featured Winding River and St. James as among the best of the nation's retirement "hot spots".