Brunswick County- A View from the Bridge
Once Long Beach and Yaupon Beach, it's wind blown live oaks and yaupon trees add to the character of this quaint area. The island is 10 miles of picturesque, unspoiled strand along the Atlantic Ocean. Many families have been coming to this quiet beach area for generations, enjoying its breathtaking sunsets and pristine sandy beaches. It is located within a short drive of two larger cities- Wilmington, North Carolina is 30 minutes to the north and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is 60 minutes to the south.
Originally known as Smithville when it was incorporated in 1792, its name was changed to Southport in 1887 by its citizens in hope of attracting a port which ultimately ended up in Wilmington. Southport is located just to the east of Oak Island and is known for its historical charm. Walking tours through downtown Southport, with its Victorian homes, antique shops, museums and art galleries, keep its viewers captivated. It is a quiet town with a relaxed atmosphere and wonderful hospitality.
Take a week, a weekend or even a day trip to this island resort off Southport's coast. The Ferry Terminal is located in the Indigo Plantation Marina in Southport at 9th Street. After unloading your belongings and parking in one of the parking lots close by, guests can board the passenger ferry for the short 20 minute ride to the island. A golf cart tram will meet you to take you to your destination. Historic Tours are available or you can wonder the island by yourself. Visit Old Baldy, the local lighthouse. Amenities include a championship golf course, clubhouse facilities, croquet, marina, tennis courts, swimming pools, restaurants and snack bars. Reservations are encouraged for lunch or dinner. Escape to this beautiful, stress free island!
The quiet and quaint town of Caswell Beach appeals to families looking for a unique, quiet and peaceful vacation. It is named for Fort Caswell, an historic civil war fort built in 1826 and seized by the Confederate troops at the end of the 19th century. It is now the North Carolina Baptist Assembly which is a church camp and retreat center although remains of the fort can be seen around the premises. Caswell Beach boasts of having the brightest lighthouse in the United States and second brightest in the world. It can be seen from almost 24 miles away by ships passing by.
The most recently incorporated community in Brunswick County, the Town of St. James was developed due to the rapid growth in the area. Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, St. James is a peaceful community within a short distance to shops, restaurants, historic Southport and local beaches. The Town of St. James boasts of 3 golf courses, a marina, restaurant and its own fire station.
Named for a natural spring, Boiling Spring Lakes was incorporated in 1961. It covers 16,000 acres with over 50 natural and man-made lakes. The Big Lake is over 2.5 miles long with over 10 miles of shoreline and is one of several lakes that offer public access for swimming, fishing and water skiing. The Lakes & Country Club offers 18 holes of championship golf. The natural setting of a "wildlife preserve and bird sanctuary" make Boiling Spring Lakes a favorite place to relocate with the rare and protected Venus Flytrap, sweet gums, pines and oaks and the fox squirrel.