Welcome to Southport
If you drive out to the furthest southeast point of contiguous North Carolina, you’ll find Southport. This charming, protected riverfront town is the ideal destination for family vacations, relaxing retirements, and remote professionals looking to escape the pressure of the big city. With a thriving tourist and vacation industry, Southport has abundant gourmet restaurants and delightful shopping experiences at the friendly, relaxed pace of riverfront living.
Southport, NC is a community brimming with history, blending beautiful old brick buildings and lighthouses with new and brightly colored shops along the river. Whether you’re looking for a luxury vacation, a relaxing escape, or a beautiful place to walk along the shore, you’ve found it in Southport.
What to Love
- Relaxed riverfront vibes
- Small-town feel with big-city services
- Historic homes and buildings
- Upscale riverfront shopping with shady, walkable plazas
- Abundant parks and outdoor recreation nearby
Local Lifestyle
Living in Southport, NC is about taking time to enjoy the simple things in life. Beautiful sunrises and historic architecture define the town, and its residents enjoy a relaxed pace that belongs to a previous era. Many new shops and historic homes are painted in gentle pastels that perfectly complement the soft skies.
Favored by vacationers and those taking a break from city life, Southport offers a rich tableau of riverfront and historical experiences, including gourmet dining, fresh seafood, and legendary fishing spots. Fill your days with outdoor recreation, upscale shopping, and delicious meals. Then unwind with a walk along the river or catch one of the many bench swings for a majestic sunset view.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Southport is a distinctly riverfront town when it comes to dining, and proud of it. Start your seafood exploration at Provision Company, as featured in Southern Living Magazine. This boating charter location began selling seafood and never stopped. It has colossal shrimp, delicious seafood, and a shaded outdoor patio on the water.
Mr. P’s Bistro is a charming little seafood stop, and what’s incredible is their oyster and prime rib specialty. Or head to Cafe Koa for beautifully Hawaiian-influenced cuisine and a breakfast menu that’ll knock your socks off. Or start your day bright and early (or late and leisurely) at Southport Coffee for java on the go.
To find upscale shopping, try Ocean Outfitters for all the latest coastal attire within walking distance from the waterfront park, pier, and porch swings.
Things to Do
There’s always something going on in Southport. Despite the small-town pace, this community loves to party. Southport, NC is known for its incredible 4th of July celebration, bringing thousands to the area with a grand finale of fireworks over the water.
If you like pirates or boat races, you can’t miss the Stede Bonette Pirate Regatta hosted every October on the Cape Fear River. If you’re a master fisherman, join us for the U.S. Open King Mackeral Tournament, where anglers compete to see who can catch the biggest mackerel, among other fun events.
The picturesque town of Southport has also been featured in many films, including Safe Haven.
Schools
Southport public and private schools favor small class sizes and focus on individual achievement. Among the best schools are:
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