The Southport waterfront is a charming blend of coastal beauty and historic Southern character. Lined with ancient oak trees, fishing boats, and waterfront restaurants, it offers postcard-worthy views of the Cape Fear River as it meets the Atlantic. Visitors can stroll the peaceful riverwalk, watch shrimp boats glide by, or take in breathtaking sunsets over the water. With its salty breeze, friendly small-town feel, and rich maritime history, the Southport waterfront is a place where time slows down and every moment feels a little magical.

Fort Johnson sits along the edge of the Cape Fear River as a quiet reminder of the region’s military past. Once an important coastal defense site, it played a key role in guarding the waterway and the communities that relied on it. Today, the area surrounding Fort Johnson offers peaceful views of the river, open skies, and a sense of stepping back in time. Weathered earthworks, scattered markers, and the natural shoreline create a blend of history and scenery that invites visitors to pause, reflect, and imagine the stories that once unfolded here.

The Old Smith Burying Ground is one of Southport’s quietest and most historic corners, tucked beneath the shade of ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Dating back to the 1700s, this cemetery holds some of the earliest settlers, sailors, and families who shaped the region. Weathered headstones, hand-carved epitaphs, and peaceful pathways give the space a reverent, almost timeless feel. Walking through the grounds offers a glimpse into Southport’s earliest heritage—an intimate place where history, memory, and nature quietly intertwine.

The Old Brunswick County Jail stands as one of Southport’s most intriguing historic landmarks. Built in the early 1900s, the two-story brick structure once held prisoners in its narrow cells, complete with original iron bars and heavy doors that still echo the past. Today, the jail is preserved as a museum, offering a fascinating look into early law enforcement and daily life in a small coastal town. Its stark interior, vintage artifacts, and compelling stories make it a memorable stop for anyone curious about Southport’s history and the people who lived—and served time—here.