Things To Do
in Southern Pines
Southern Pines is a charming town located in North Carolina, known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant community. It offers a mix of outdoor activities, including golfing, hiking, and horseback riding, thanks to its favorable climate and natural beauty. The town is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
With its friendly atmosphere and Southern hospitality, Southern Pines provides a welcoming and laid-back lifestyle for all who call it home.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $85 - $170
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Enjoy a stroll in Downtown Southern Pines to admire the unique shops.
Visit the Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots.
Dine at a cozy restaurant offering Southern cuisine. Relax at a local bar with live music.
Grab breakfast and head to the Pinehurst Resort for a round of golf. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you play on one of the world-class courses.
After golf, have lunch at the resort and relax at the spa for some pampering. Spend the afternoon enjoying the resort's amenities.
Indulge in dinner at a fine dining establishment within the resort. Unwind with a nightcap and reflect on your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful landscapes and pine forests
- Strong sense of community and friendly environment
- Access to outdoor activities like golf, hiking, and horseback riding
- Mild climate suitable for year-round enjoyment
- Rich history and cultural attractions
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas
- Hot summers with humidity
- Potential for storms and hurricanes in hurricane season
- Less access to urban amenities and entertainment options
Best Activities in Southern Pines
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore miles of scenic trails through beautiful pine forests and along serene lakes at this protected natural area, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying local flora and fauna.
Play a round of golf at one of the most renowned golf destinations in the world, featuring multiple championship courses set in lush green landscapes.
Experience guided horseback rides through the picturesque trails of the Sandhills region, suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy an exhilarating bike ride along the Greenway Trail, which connects various parks and wooded areas in and around Southern Pines.
Spend a relaxing day fishing at this local lake, known for its variety of fish species and peaceful surroundings.
Gather with family and friends for a delightful picnic in this community park featuring picturesque surroundings, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Explore diverse habitats and observe a variety of bird species in their natural environment at this expansive conservation area.
Places to Visit in Southern Pines
Visit one of these nice places.
The gardens and grounds offer beautiful views and photo opportunities, especially in spring and fall.
A popular spot for capturing scenic views of the water and surrounding landscapes.
Quaint streets and charming architecture provide great photo opportunities throughout the area.
Food in Southern Pines
Southern Pines Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Southern staple, featuring lightly breaded and fried green tomatoes, often served with a zesty remoulade sauce. Must-try at The Sly Fox or Wolcott's Restaurant & Bar.
Must-Try!
Tender and flavorful pulled pork, slow-cooked and smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce. Delight in this local favorite at The Full Moon Oyster Bar or Southern Prime Steakhouse.
A classic Lowcountry dish showcasing sautéed shrimp served atop creamy, stone-ground grits, accented with a rich and savory gravy. Available at Ashten's or Chef Warren's.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Discover a vibrant mix of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food offerings. Open on Saturdays, the market is a haven for local vendors featuring a wide array of seasonal delights.
Experience an eclectic gathering of food trucks showcasing diverse cuisines. From gourmet burgers to exotic international fare, this monthly event held at Downtown Park is a haven for street food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When interacting with locals in Southern Pines, a friendly smile and a polite greeting are appreciated. It's common to say 'hello' or 'howdy' and to maintain eye contact during conversations to show engagement and respect.
If invited to someone's home for a meal, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as a dessert or flowers. During dining, wait for the host to start before eating, and keep conversations light and friendly.
Respect personal space during conversations. Southern Pines residents value their personal boundaries, so it's best to maintain a comfortable distance when talking to someone you are not familiar with.
Safety
Tipping in Southern Pines
Ensure a smooth experience
In Southern Pines, like many parts of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries. The standard tip is typically around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants. For other services like hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, tips can vary but often range from 15% to 20% as well.
Payment methods in Southern Pines are diverse, with credit and debit cards being widely accepted at most establishments. Cash payments are also common, especially in smaller businesses. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet are becoming more popular, particularly among younger consumers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Southern Pines, as the weather is pleasant and many outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, and horseback riding can be enjoyed. The town also hosts the Annual Southern Pines Blues & BBQ Festival in spring, offering great food and live music.
Summer is another popular time to visit Southern Pines, as the town comes alive with various events and festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the warm weather for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring the Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Southern Pines, as the foliage turns into stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow. The weather is still pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Additionally, the area hosts the Southern Pines Autumnfest, featuring arts, crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment.
While winters in Southern Pines are mild compared to other parts of the country, it is the quietest season for tourism. However, visitors can still enjoy activities like golfing, exploring the downtown area, and attending holiday events and concerts.
Southern Pines at Night
Hiking in Southern Pines
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature preserve featuring trails through a variety of habitats including pine forests, wetlands, and meadows. Ideal for hiking and bird watching.
Offers a range of hiking trails and scenic vistas. Visitors can experience the unique sandhill ecosystem and enjoy wildlife observation opportunities.
A multi-use trail that offers a leisurely hike through wooded areas and around golf courses in Pinehurst, just a short drive from Southern Pines.
Features hiking trails that wind around Jones Lake, providing access to nature, ponds, and a variety of local wildlife for hiking enthusiasts.
Provides multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The forest showcases picturesque views, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for camping.
Aiports
How to reach Southern Pines by plane.
Located in Greensboro, NC, approximately 70 miles from Southern Pines.
Located in Morrisville, NC, approximately 90 miles from Southern Pines.
Located in Charlotte, NC, approximately 120 miles from Southern Pines.
Located in Fayetteville, NC, approximately 50 miles from Southern Pines.
Located in New Bern, NC, approximately 120 miles from Southern Pines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Southern Pines.
The second largest demographic group in Southern Pines.
A growing demographic group in Southern Pines.
A smaller demographic group in Southern Pines.
Includes individuals from various racial backgrounds not classified above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Southern Pines is known for its beautiful golf courses and has a strong golf community, attracting players of all skill levels.
The area has several tennis facilities and clubs, offering both recreational and competitive playing opportunities.
With a rich history in equestrian activities, Southern Pines hosts various horse shows and competitions, making it a hub for riders.
The scenic landscapes and trails around Southern Pines provide excellent opportunities for running and cycling enthusiasts.
Soccer is a popular sport in the community, with local leagues and youth programs available for players of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southern Pines.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Southern Pines features a growing emphasis on vegetarian and vegan dining. Many local eateries, such as Chapman's Food and Spirits, offer dedicated menus with plant-based selections.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can explore an array of gluten-free options at eateries like Squire’s Pub, providing a dedicated menu featuring gluten-conscious choices.