Bald Head Island

Tucked away in southeastern North Carolina’s coastline is an island unlike most. At the southernmost point of the Cape Islands lies Bald Head.  Named for its landmark “Old Baldy” lighthouse, the island is a haven for those looking for the classic “American Summer.”  Quaint cottages, stunning summer homes and beachfront properties dot the landscape.  Natural birdlife can be seen flying high above the shores or nestled quietly in the trees.  Families sit on large front porches enjoying the evening sunsets.  Children still play in front yards and can be heard giggling from inside homes.  Bicycles and golf carts are the preferred method of transportation as no large cars or vehicles are permitted on the island.  You’ll never be stuck in traffic again!

Whether you’ve come to play golf on the island’s striking George Cobb designed course or to sail out of the charming boating marina, Bald Head Island has something for everyone.  The island has close to 12,000 total acres protected as natural preserves.  One can paddle a serpentine tidal creek or a salt marsh for hours.  There are miles of ambient walking trails winding through hundred-year-old oaks, dogwoods and cedars.  The island’s natural geography is your playground. Bald Head Island is waiting for you!

Oak Island

Located in Brunswick County, Oak Island is one of North Carolina’s few southern facing beaches.  Oak Island is made up of several smaller beaches, Oak Island Beach, Long Beach, Yaupon Beach and Caswell Beach.  This island was so named for its beautiful, old live Oak trees, bent and gnarled by the sea breezes and time.  Caswell Beach, located at the easternmost tip of the island at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, is named after Fort Caswell.

The island features classic beach and boating recreational venues.  Two local piers stretch into the surf for fishing year round.  Also, there are more than a dozen fishing and angling charters on the island that tour year round.  There is a well-conditioned, George Cobb designed golf course located within Oak Island Country Club for the golf enthusiast.  Along the shores you can see multiple protected sea turtle nests as the island is a massive protective habitat for the sea creatures. 

Though the population swells during the summer months due to tourism, the island is home to many year-round residents.  Amenities include a library, recreation center, post-office, two fire departments, banks and all the restaurants the seafood lover could ask for.

Southport

Just 30 miles southwest of Wilmington, North Carolina is the seaside community of Southport.  The city originally incorporated as Smithville in 1792, and residents voted to change the city’s name to Southport in 1887 in hopes of drawing a port to the area.  This stunning historical city has a truly unique and whimsical downtown, reminiscent of eras past.  Walking the streets under the shade of centuries old live Oaks brings back the nostalgia of simpler times. 

Although the city is rich in culture and history, it still has all the modern amenities of banks, schools, hotels and one of the finest medical centers in the area—the J.A. Dosher Memorial Hospital.  Whether walking along the boats at Waterfront Park or perusing the history of the NC Maritime Museum, you will find yourself captivated by Southport.

One of the biggest events of the year is the North Carolina 4th of July Festival in Southport.  Each year, thousands of visitors come to participate in the festivities, try the local delicacies and watch the spectacular fireworks display on the waterfront.  Whether you are just visiting or planning on staying forever, Southport welcomes you with open arms and Southern spirit.