Southport
The small coastal village of Southport with its relaxed tone and two hundred year old oaks which line the streets, takes you back to a simpler and gentler time. Rich in historic charm, this patriotic port city was among the first of the North Carolina towns to offer a city wide 4th of July Celebration. Beginning in 1795, this annual tradition has become a four day event and an official North Carolina Festival enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Stunning fireworks displays and the festive lighted boat parade make this event a unforgettable.
Whether you travel to Southport via the North Carolina Ferry System, or by scenic highway the seaside beauty found in this area will take your breath away. Southport plays host to a wide variety of places to see and things to do. Nature walks, learning about history, shopping for antiques, are just a few of the things to do. You can ride the Southport Ferry over to Kure Beach where the North Carolina Aquarium is located. No matter what your pleasure, you will love spending some time in Southport.
If you love nature activities you can enjoy a local favorite by taking a kayak tour through area waters or a bicycle tour through Southport. Waterfront Park is a favorite place to sit, relax and watch the boats moving down the waterway. Or you can visit the Historic Riverwalk trail that follows along the unique Southport waterfront where the Cape Fear River joins the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can also gaze out on the ships passing and other maritime activities. From here you can even see Old Baldy Lighthouse and the Oak Island Lighthouse in the distance.
Southport is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. So, for all you history buffs, Southport is full of beautiful historical homes with distinct architecture, many of which belonged to river pilots and possibly even some pirates of the past. Historic cemeteries are located throughout Southport and offer a unique glimpse into the past.
Don't miss the Indian Trail Tree, located in Keziah Park. This tree is over eight hundred years old and was used by Cape Fear area Indians. Bonnet's Creek, which was a safe haven for The Gentleman Pirate Stede Bonnet in the 1700s is also very popular to visit. The North Carolina Maritime Museum of Southport offers a wealth of fun to those interested in local maritime history. Self-guided walking tours are a great way to see all of the unique historic sites while you enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Southport has over fifteen antique shops. Many other specialty shops can be found here as well. Local handicraft and art can be found in our art galleries here. When you have finished shopping, don't miss the great restaurants you can find here. Southport has many restaurants, where you can enjoy a delicious relaxing meal. From waterfront dining to outside cafes Southport has fare to suit any palate. Many restaurants are located along the waterfront or yacht basin, so take a stroll and enjoy the fresh seafood and diverse menus.
Mild climate and ocean breezes make Southport the perfect location for activities like golfing, boating and fishing all of which can be enjoyed year-round. A variety of challenging area golf courses and exhilarating fishing charters are found in Southport. No matter what activity you choose, Southport is the perfect place for a great outdoor experience.
Nearly 2,600 year-round residents take pleasure in the gracious atmosphere and quiet living Southport has to offer. This relaxed community offers some of the most exclusive properties in the area, a commercial district and downtown area, excellent medical care and a convenient setting halfway between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Ranked as one of the most desirable places to retire in the United States by Rand McNally and Kiplinger, many people who visit Southport each year never want to leave.
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