Explore Southport

Southport

Southport is a quaint, historic town known for its stunning waterfront views, rich maritime history, and vibrant community. Stroll through the oak-lined streets, explore unique shops, and savor delicious local cuisine at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Southport’s serene atmosphere and scenic beauty have made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, adding a touch of Hollywood charm to its already captivating allure.

Oak Island

Just a short drive away, Oak Island boasts pristine beaches, lush maritime forests, and a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. The island’s laid-back vibe and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for an excursion.

Visiting the Oak Island light house is a wonderful afternoon trip. The pristine beach without any houses or structures on the beach is an amazing way to see what the dunes and ocean was like well before any houses were built.

The Oak Island Lighthouse stands just over 150 feet tall. It offers the perfect opportunity to see some amazing coastal views. Climbing up the unique 131 steps to the observation platform is possible (they use ship ladders, not the normal spiral staircase you may be picturing) to capture amazing pictures (reservations required).

Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island, historically Smith Island, is a village located on the east side of the cape fear river. The village of Bald Head Island is small and somewhat remote and it is accessible by ferry from Southport. Bald Head Island is nationally recognized for its sea turtle nesting activity.

Linked copyright of ncbrunswick.com. A great website for everything Brunswick county, towns, beaches, Islands, events, and restaurants. Link Below;

Bald Head Island, NC | Brunswick County Islands & Towns (ncbrunswick.com)

The Southport Ferrys to Bald Head island and Ft. Fisher/Carolina Beach/NC Aquarium

Southport Ferrys runs every hour from dawn until around 10 or 11 PM and times may very based on the time of year. Attached is a link the ferry details, ferry schedule, and reservations.

NCDOT: Ferry Schedule Southport to Fort Fisher

Bald Head Island Ferry – Bald Head Island Transportation

Some of our favorites

We wanted to share some local spots we love and visit often

Restaurants

Southport

Provisions Company (great harbor side seafood restaurant, casual)
Edgewater 122 (a bit fancier waterfront dining)
Mr P's (Upscale seafood restaurant - reservations hard to get!)
Fishy Fishy (More casual waterfront bar and restaurant)
Josephs (best Italian dinner)
Southport Coffee & Kitchen (fantastic breakfast and lunch - and coffee!)
Dry Street (amazing pizza!!)
Royal James (great nachos)
The Oyster Bar (Yup, oysters and other seafood)
Blue Cow (burgers)

Oak island

Island Way (higher end dinner on the beach)
Lazy Turtle (great nachos and bar food with tables and bar outside in the sand)
Tranquil Harbor (Best American food hands down with best prices)
Salt 64 (great formal dining modern seafood)

Watering Holes/Bars