Things To Do
in Southport
Southport is a charming coastal town located in North Carolina, United States. It is known for its historic downtown area filled with quaint shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the waterfront and admiring the picturesque views of the Cape Fear River.
Southport also hosts several annual festivals and events that showcase its rich maritime heritage.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ 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 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll along the waterfront for beautiful views of the harbor.
Explore the Southport Maritime Museum to learn about the area's rich seafaring history. Grab lunch at a seafood restaurant and enjoy fresh catch from the day's haul.
Watch the sunset at the beach, then enjoy a cozy dinner at a bistro. Wrap up the day with a casual walk through the charming streets filled with local shops.
Spend the morning at Franklin Square Park. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the trails and relish the sights of blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Head to the nearby Southport Nature Park for a picnic lunch. Engage in birdwatching or simply relax among the natural beauty.
Visit a local pub for live music and a laid-back vibe. Savor some craft beer and chat with friendly locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers
- Rich history and charming downtown area
- Strong community spirit and friendly locals
- Access to outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas
- Seasonal tourist fluctuations can impact local businesses
- Potential for hurricane impacts during storm season
- Limited public transportation options
Best Activities in Southport
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque Southport beaches, taking in the scenic views of the ocean and coastline.
Try your luck at fishing from the Southport Pier or on a charter boat, with opportunities to catch various local fish species.
Explore the waters surrounding Southport by renting a kayak or paddleboard, perfect for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts.
Take advantage of the scenic bike paths in and around Southport for a fun and active way to explore the area.
Play a round at one of the local golf courses, which offer beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere for golf enthusiasts.
Hike through the nearby nature trails, offering an opportunity to observe local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Join a guided outdoor historical tour to learn about Southport's rich maritime history and visit key landmarks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Southport with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Southport
Visit one of these nice places.
The Southport Pier offers stunning views of the Blue Water and is a great spot for sunset photography.
This location provides a scenic backdrop with its beautiful landscapes and the historic lighthouse, perfect for nature and architecture photos.
Featuring natural beauty and historic charm, this park is ideal for capturing the essence of Southport's coastal scenery.
A picturesque spot filled with colorful boats and waterfront views, ideal for vibrant marina photos.
Offering sweeping views of the river and nearby islands, this location helps capture Southport's historical significance and natural beauty.
Food in Southport
Southport Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Southern dish featuring shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes, all boiled together with flavorful spices. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants such as Provisions and Mr. P's Bistro.
Must-Try!
Tender, slow-cooked ribs slathered in tangy barbecue sauce. Head to The Smoke on the Water or Hog Heaven Bar-B-Q for mouthwatering barbecue delights.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Southport better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market is a paradise for foodies, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local seafood, artisanal goods, and delightful street food options like gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizzas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Southport, residents value politeness and friendliness. A warm greeting, such as a smile or saying 'hello,' goes a long way in establishing rapport.
While people are generally welcoming, it's important to respect personal space. Maintain an appropriate distance during conversations, especially with individuals you do not know well.
Observe local customs such as saying 'please' and 'thank you,' as well as being punctual for social gatherings. Being mindful of these norms shows respect for the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Southport with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Southport
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Southport, United States, generally follows the common practice observed across the country. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip amount is typically between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. In restaurants, tips are usually given directly to the server, while in bars, patrons may leave cash on the counter or add it to the credit card payment.
Payment methods in Southport are varied and include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment systems. Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards, making it convenient for customers. Some places may also accept contactless payments through mobile wallets. It's advisable for visitors to have some cash on hand, as smaller businesses or markets may prefer cash transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Southport. The weather is mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the high 70s Fahrenheit. Visitors can expect blooming flowers, outdoor festivals, and various activities like fishing and boat tours. It’s a great time for enjoying nature and local events.
Summer (June to August) brings warm weather, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. This season is ideal for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, with many events happening along the waterfront. However, it can be quite humid, and occasional thunderstorms are common.
Fall (September to November) in Southport offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit. The fall foliage adds a beautiful backdrop to the area, making it a picturesque time for hiking and exploring. Fall festivals and local markets can also be enjoyed during this season.
Winter (December to February) is mild compared to many other places, with temperatures typically in the 40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. Although it’s the off-season for tourism, visitors can enjoy quieter beaches and off-season rates. Occasional cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures and some rainfall, but overall, it's a relatively temperate winter.
Southport at Night
Hiking in Southport
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal area offering several hiking trails with views of the ocean and maritime forests.
Features various trails winding through wetlands and oak forests, perfect for hiking and wildlife observation.
Nearby trails provide an educational view of local maritime history while offering a pleasant hiking experience.
A scenic trail along the Cape Fear River, ideal for a leisurely hike or nature walk with beautiful river views.
Offers extensive hiking opportunities through varied terrain, suited for more experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Aiports
How to reach Southport by plane.
Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Southport, JAX is a major airport serving the Jacksonville area with domestic and international flights.
Situated about 70 miles northeast of Southport, MYR provides a range of flights mainly focused on the Southeast United States and seasonal international destinations.
Located roughly 25 miles northwest of Southport, ILM serves the Wilmington area with connections to several major U.S. cities.
About 100 miles south of Southport, CHS offers a variety of domestic and some international flights, catering primarily to the Charleston area.
Approximately 120 miles northwest of Southport, GSP connects the Upstate South Carolina region with multiple domestic flights and few international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority racial group in Southport, often comprising a significant portion of the population.
A significant demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Southport.
This group includes individuals of various backgrounds from Latin America and Spain.
A smaller yet growing demographic featuring various ethnic backgrounds such as Indian, Chinese, and Filipino.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial category, reflecting the increasing diversity.
A minority group representing the indigenous peoples of North America.
A small demographic group including individuals from Hawaii, Guam, and other islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a widely played sport in Southport, featuring local leagues for various age groups and both recreational and competitive play.
Southport is known for its golf courses, attracting both residents and tourists for leisure and competitive golf activities.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Southport, with community teams and school competitions actively engaging players and fans.
Tennis is a favored sport with several public courts available, hosting local tournaments and clinics for enthusiasts of all ages.
Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular pastime in Southport, with both recreational and sport fishing opportunities available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southport.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Southport caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based alternatives and creative vegetable-centric dishes. Places like Live Oak Café and Ports of Call Bistro provide diverse options for vegetarian and vegan diners.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can dine with ease in Southport, as numerous establishments feature gluten-free menus or can accommodate special dietary needs. For gluten-free delights, check out Joseph's Italian Bistro and Southport Cheese Shoppe.