Originally incorporated in 1792 as Smithville, this coastal gem was renamed Southport in 1887 to promote its potential as a major southern shipping port. While it has proudly served as a historic fishing village and military outpost, modern visitors know it best as a picturesque “movie town,” serving as the beautiful backdrop for iconic films like Safe Haven and A Walk to Remember.
Just four miles from the main entrance of St. James, historic downtown Southport is alive and bustling with a small-town charm that instantly makes you feel at home. The historic district will captivate you as you stroll under a canopy of 200-year-old live oak trees and past stunning Victorian homes that once housed river pilots.
Today, those historic storefronts are filled with eclectic antique shops, local boutiques, and incredible waterfront dining where you can watch ships cruise down the Cape Fear River. Whether you are catching the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry for a scenic day trip or grabbing a self-guided film map from the Southport Visitor Center, Southport offers a timeless coastal lifestyle that is truly second to none.
People are drawn to our historic hometown by the sea for its unmistakable low-country magic. Here, quaint antique shops, grand historic homes, and streets shaded by centuries-old live oaks seamlessly blend with modern waterfront dining, vibrant local taprooms, and undeniable movie-set charm. It’s a place where you can watch the ships cruise past on the river by day and catch a breathtaking sunset over the harbor by night.
Historic Architecture & Covered Porches: Stroll past stunning Victorian-era homes once owned by legendary river pilots and ship captains.
The Famous Southport Yacht Basin: Experience bustling waterfront grills and open-air seafood shacks where the Intracoastal Waterway meets the Cape Fear River.
Waterfront Park & City Pier: Relax on a scenic bench swing, watch the local ferry pass by, and catch glimpses of dolphins playing in the surf.
Rich Maritime Culture: Explore regional nautical history at the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport or tour the historic Fort Johnston Visitors Center.
Signature Seasonal Events: Home to the massive annual North Carolina 4th of July Festival which brings maritime parades and brilliant fireworks over the river.
Eclectic Local Shopping: Wander through independent art galleries, upscale coastal boutiques, and renowned antique shops.
Seamless Island Access: Located just minutes from the Southport-Fort Fisher ferry line and the sandy shores of Oak Island and Caswell Beach.
If you are actively exploring the local coastal market, the diverse collection of homes for sale Southport offers provides an unbeatable blend of history, convenience, and low-country luxury. For buyers seeking proximity to this beautiful coastal town paired with a secure, amenity-rich lifestyle, looking into a premier gated community southport area has to offer has never been more popular.
Right next door, St. James Plantation stands as the benchmark gated community St James is celebrated for. Widely recognized as a top retirement community North Carolina destination, it is the ideal match for those searching for a dynamic, fulfilling 55+ community North Carolina experience or a dedicated active adult neighborhood in North Carolina to call home.
Living here means entering a world-class golf course community North Carolina environment featuring 81 holes of championship golf designed by legends like Tim Cate and P.B. Dye. Whether you are looking for existing properties or want to explore the new homes for sale our North Carolina builders are currently crafting in our neighborhoods, you will find unmatched options. Ready to plant roots near historic downtown Southport? View the latest homes for sale St. James and Southport have to offer, and discover your slice of the Carolinas.
Discovery Visit Package
Visit St. James & Experience Our Unique Coastal Lifestyle!
3 Days & 2 Nights with an exclusive real estate tour of the community
$449 per couple
*Price includes:
*Conditions of offer: The Discovery Visit Package is designed to acquaint you with the St. James Community real estate opportunities. To qualify for our discovery package, you must complete a real estate presentation and tour with one of our St. James Broker/REALTORS®. All those participating in the package must be present. Please confirm your reservation with a major credit card.
**Restrictions may apply.
Fill out the form below or contact us by calling 910-253-3001 or emailing us at info@stjames-properties.com
