Southport, North Carolina travel guide: things to do, food & where to stay

Overview

Southport is a city on the North Carolina Coastal Plain. Back in the 18th century, British settlements along this stretch of coast were afflicted by buccaneers and Spanish frigates to the point that a fortification named Fort Johnston had to be built, around which a town then called Smithville after Revolutionary War figure Benjamin Smith took shape, which eventually became known as Southport (in the hopes that it would initiate maritime traffic). But if anything Southport is a leisure and retirement haven, although granted it does have some military and nuclear power facilities nearby. It's also a filming location, such as for the movies Safe Haven and Nights in Rodanthe that you might have seen.

4 sights · 2 places to eat · 3 places to stay

Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage

Best things about Southport

Orton Plantation & Gardens

Located about halfway between Wilmington and Southport, North Carolina, on the west bank of the Cape Fear River. It has been the site for many dramatic documentaries and action films.

Franklin Square Art Gallery

An association of local artisans in varying media including paintings and pottery all displayed for your enjoyment in a beautiful historic building. Admission is free.

The Southport Maritime Museum

A collection of memorabilia pertaining to the vast nautical history of Southport, the Lower Cape Fear and Southeastern North Carolina.

Fort Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitors' Center

Old history.

Plan your trip

Best time to visit & weather

Most comfortable: Mar–May, Oct–Nov. Summer highs reach about 90°F; winter lows dip to about 36°F. Very hot (Jul) — plan outdoor time for mornings. Wettest: Sep and Aug. (climate data from nearby Wilmington)

Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).

Getting there

From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
ILM Wilmington International Airport, Wilmington — 25 mi away. Directions
MYR Myrtle Beach International Airport, Myrtle Beach — 55 mi away (major hub). Directions

Full “Get in” guide ↓

Budget & where to stay

No prices are listed for this place yet. See the Sleep guide ↓ for options.

Sample 1-day itinerary

Day 1

Morning Fort Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitors' Center, Orton Plantation & Gardens
Lunch Oliver's on the Cape Fear
Afternoon Franklin Square Art Gallery, The Southport Maritime Museum
Dinner Bella Cucina Restaurant & Lounge

Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.

Food for you

What to ask about, for your diet

Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder

Photos

Map

Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.

See

See Franklin Square Art Gallery

An association of local artisans in varying media including paintings and pottery all displayed for your enjoyment in a beautiful historic building. Admission is free.

Maps

See The Southport Maritime Museum

A collection of memorabilia pertaining to the vast nautical history of Southport, the Lower Cape Fear and Southeastern North Carolina.

Maps Website

See Fort Johnston-Southport Museum & Visitors' Center

Old history.

📍 203 E Bay Stright behind the Southport Maritime Museum🕒 Mon-Sat 10AM-4PM☎ +1 910 457-7927Checked Nov 2021

Maps Website

See Orton Plantation & Gardens

Located about halfway between Wilmington and Southport, North Carolina, on the west bank of the Cape Fear River. It has been the site for many dramatic documentaries and action films.

Maps