Visit Southport, NC
Southport, NC is a relaxing beach town located on Cape Fear, NC. With a vibrant downtown, friendly locals, and beautiful beaches, Southport is the perfect place to vacation. Whether you are a family, couple, group of friends, or traveling solo, there is plenty in Southport to make life-long memories.
Downtown Southport
Southport, originally founded in 1792, has grown into a thriving town that has held onto its small town charm. Downtown is home to quaint storefronts, delicious eateries and restaurants, parks, and historic buildings.
Take a walk up and down Moore St. The Christmas House is a beautiful historic home which has been converted into a year-round holiday store, with decorations for holidays from the 4th of July to Halloween. If you explore the shop you may find Mr. and Mrs. Claus resting between seasons! Stop by Southport staples like Bull Frog Corner Gift Shop, where you will find souvenirs, candy, books, and games. Find antique shopping, boutiques, jewelry stores, and a thrift store that benefits the local hospital, as well.
When you are not in the mood for shopping, explore the local history! Try taking a stroll down the picturesque, shady streets of Southport, which are lined with historic homes. The Old Brunswick County Jail does not take long to explore but is worth the visit! You can see the original prison cells, as well as the jailer’s apartments. The reality of the prison comes to life with the etchings of the desperate and condemned still visible in their cells.
Nestled into the Cape Fear shore, Southport has a beautiful coast. If you walk along Bay Street, you will be greeted with stunning views of the water, shoreline, sailboats, and dolphins. Grab a swing in waterfront park and relax with lunch or a book.
The lower cape fear is steeped in history. Native Americans made the area their home because of plentiful fishing and beautiful seashells. See for yourself one of their canoes built over 2,000 years ago. More recently, the cape fear was used as a hiding place for notorious pirates, including Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard! At the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Southport, you can learn about their history and their adventures on Cape Fear.
Beaches
Oak Island, just across a bridge from Southport, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches North Carolina has to offer. With over 65 public access locations, you’ll always be able to find a place on the water on Oak Island. If you are looking for a more exciting beach experience, Long Beach is the place to go. For a more relaxed, private feel, travel down to the tip of the island and settle in on Caswell Beach for a day spent in the sun and surf. Caswell Beach is also home to the Oak Island Lighthouse. Feel like a bit of adventure? You can climb 131 steps up “ships ladders” to the top of the lighthouse for incredible views! Remember to schedule your tour at least 2 weeks in advance.
Family Friendly Fun
Looking for something to entertain both the kids and the adults? Spend a day at Fort Fisher and the North Carolina Aquarium. Start the day off with a ferry ride from Southport to Fort Fisher. The ride is an exciting trip across the waterway that lasts about 35 minutes. Drive your vehicle right on to the ferry, then hop out to explore the upper deck. You will get to feel the ocean breeze while watching the local wildlife. Sea birds and dolphins are common visitors to these waters. Once you reach the other side, you can explore the civil war era Fort Fisher before moving on to the aquarium.
Filming Locations
Movie and TV buffs can enjoy visiting filming locations in Southport and nearby Bald Head Island. Because of its scenic location and panoramic views, Southport and Bald Head Island have been used as filming locations for iconic films such as Weekend at Bernie’s, I Know What You Did Last Summer, Dawson’s Creek, A Walk to Remember, Safe Haven, and many others.
