A Visitor's Guide: Top 10 Things to Do in Historic Southport, NC

Southport is the picturesque, historic heart of the North Carolina Brunswick Islands. Known for its majestic live oak trees, rich maritime history, and stunning riverfront views, this charming coastal town looks like it was pulled straight out of a movie—because it actually was!

If you are planning your next family vacation and want to experience this beautiful harbor town to the fullest, here is our ultimate list of the top 10 things to do in Southport!

1. Stroll the Southport Riverwalk and Waterfront Park

The absolute best way to start your Southport vacation is by heading straight to Waterfront Park. Located right where the Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic Ocean, you can sit on the swinging benches and watch massive cargo ships, sailboats, and even dolphins cruise by. Take a relaxing walk down the paved Riverwalk for some of the best panoramic views on the East Coast.

2. Cruise the Historic Streets on an E-Bike

Southport's historic downtown is highly walkable, but it is perfect for cruising on an electric bike. An e-bike lets you effortlessly glide under the massive canopy of centuries-old live oak trees, check out the stunning historic Victorian homes, and zip from the marina to the downtown shops without breaking a sweat. (Pro tip: You don't have to bring your own! Mr. Beach Rentals will deliver premium cruisers and e-bikes directly to your Southport vacation rental!)

3. Eat Local Seafood at the Yacht Basin

You cannot visit Southport without grabbing a meal down at the Old Yacht Basin. This vibrant waterfront area is packed with incredible local restaurants like the famous Provision Company and The Frying Pan. Grab a table on the outdoor deck, order a massive plate of fresh, locally caught shrimp, and enjoy the salty breeze while watching the fishing boats return with their daily catch.

4. Take a Hollywood Location Tour

Did you know Southport is known as the "Hollywood of the East"? The town has been the filming location for dozens of movies and TV shows, most famously Nicholas Sparks’ Safe Haven and A Walk to Remember. You can easily take a self-guided walking tour, or book a local golf cart tour to see the exact houses, restaurants, and waterfront spots where your favorite scenes were filmed.

5. Kayak the Calm Coastal Waters with Park & Paddle

While the riverfront gets all the attention, the real magic of the area happens in the surrounding creeks and backwaters. Getting on the water has never been easier thanks to our exclusive Park & Paddle service! We set up your kayak or stand-up paddleboard directly at the absolute best local launch spots—like the beautiful, calm waters of "The Point" and the scenic local creeks. All you have to do is park your car, hop on your board, and explore the wildlife-rich salt marshes. When you are done, just leave the gear with us. It is the ultimate, hassle-free coastal adventure for beginners and families!

6. Ride the Ferry to the NC Aquarium

For a fun, unique family adventure, drive your car right onto the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry. This scenic 35-minute boat ride takes you across the mouth of the Cape Fear River over to Pleasure Island. The kids will love feeling the sea breeze from the deck, and once you dock on the other side, you are just minutes away from the incredible North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher! Spend the afternoon petting stingrays, hanging out with a rescued bald eagle, and marveling at the massive two-story open ocean tank before catching the ferry back to Southport for dinner.

7. Take a Spooky Lantern-Lit Ghost Tour

Once the sun goes down, Southport's centuries of history really come alive. Since this town was historically a hub for pirates, sailors, and soldiers, it is loaded with local legends! Book an evening walking tour with the Old South Tour Company. Guided by the light of a flickering lantern, you will walk the historic streets while hearing incredible (and spooky!) tales of Southport's legendary ghosts and folklore.

8. Explore the NC Maritime Museum at Southport

Looking for a great indoor activity? The North Carolina Maritime Museum is a must-visit. Located right downtown, this fascinating, interactive museum dives deep into the region's seafaring history. Kids and adults alike will love learning about the pirates who once sailed these waters (including Blackbeard himself!), exploring shipwreck artifacts, and discovering the town's rich naval heritage.

9. Shop the Boutiques on Howe Street

No vacation is complete without a little retail therapy! Howe Street is the main artery of downtown Southport, and it is lined with fantastic, locally-owned boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. Whether you are looking for coastal home decor, unique local art, or the perfect nautical souvenir, you can easily spend an entire afternoon browsing these charming storefronts.

10. Watch the Ships Roll In at Sunset

Because of Southport's unique geographic location facing south across the water, the sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking. Grab an ice cream cone from a downtown parlor, head back down to Waterfront Park in the evening, and watch the sky explode into shades of pink, orange, and purple as the shrimp boats dock for the night. It is the perfect way to end a perfect coastal day.

Sweet Treat Bonus: Chuck’s Homemade Ice Cream

No vacation day is officially complete without a sweet treat! After spending the afternoon browsing the boutiques on Howe Street or cruising on your Mr. Beach Rentals e-bikes, make a mandatory stop at Chuck's Homemade Ice Cream, right in historic downtown Southport. Chuck's is a local staple, and they have something for everyone. Whether you are craving a scoop of their delicious, classic homemade ice cream, or you’re looking for the famous King of Pops, Chuck’s has you covered with a dedicated freezer stocked with your favorite all-natural pop flavors. Grab your treat of choice, snag a spot on a nearby bench, and enjoy the charming downtown vibe!

Beach Day Bonus: Take a Quick Drive to Oak Island

Because Southport is a historic riverfront town, it doesn't have crashing ocean waves—but you are only a 10-minute drive from the pristine sands of Oak Island! You absolutely must dedicate a day to crossing the bridge and enjoying the Atlantic Ocean. To make your beach day completely effortless, Mr. Beach Rentals delivers premium beach chairs and shibumis directly to your Southport vacation house, hotel, or Airbnb. Just toss your freshly delivered gear in the trunk, make the quick drive over the bridge, and set up your perfect spot on the sand in total comfort!

Don't wait until you arrive to secure your gear—reserve your relaxation today and let us deliver the perfect coastal day right to your door.

Book Your Southport Gear Here