Things to do. Places to go.
Southport
Named the ‘2015 Happiest Seaside Town in America’ by Coastal Living Magazine, Southport is just that. A mere 15-minute drive from Caswell Beach, Southport is a picture-perfect maritime village that takes pride in preserving its rich sea-faring and colonial history. Walk among the Live-Oak tree-lined streets and take in the historic homes and buildings. Celebrate at the beloved Fourth of July Festival with its treasured parade and fireworks over the river. And, of course, indulge in some of the island’s best food at any of Southport’s sumptuous restaurants.
Oak Island Lighthouse
This towering soldier has been guarding the coast since 1958. Noted for its skinny structure and tri-colored paint of black, gray and white Portland cement, the lighthouse stands above its foundation at 153 feet. Climb the 131 steps to the Lantern gallery level using a series of ship ladders. Climbing to the top is available year-round for anyone 9 years or older. Top tours need to be reserved 2-4 weeks in advance. The lighthouse is situated just a ½ mile up the street from the house.
Bald Head Island
A pleasant 20-minute passenger ferry ride from Southport will transport you to this car-free and care-free island. Situated at the southernmost tip of Carolina’s cape islands, Bald Head sits at the convergence of the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean. Rent an electric golf cart or bicycle to spend the day perusing the island’s 10,000 untouched acres of beaches, marsh and maritime forest preserves. Be sure to stop by Old Baldy, North Carolina’s oldest standing lighthouse, and climb to the top for amazing views of the island.
Wilmington, N.C.
In a 45-minute ride north of Caswell Beach, you can explore Wilmington, the appealing, vibrant riverfront city that retains its small-town coastal charm. Spanning over 300 city blocks, Wilmington is noted for its mile-long Riverwalk that winds along the Cape Fear River connecting many of the city’s shops, cafés and nightlife entertainment. Enjoy the distinctive culture and history of the city by taking a trolley tour, cruising along the Cape Fear River, indulging in a pub crawl or reveling in a moonlit ghost tour on cobblestone streets. Wilmington attracts visitors year-round to the nearby and renowned Battleship U.S.S. North Carolina and to its annual festivals, including RiverFest, Wilmington Beer Week and the popular North Carolina Azalea Festival.
Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Just over an hour drive south of Caswell will land you in the ever-favored destination of Myrtle Beach. Known as South Carolina’s Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach has long been recognized for its exceptional golf courses and beautiful coastline. With over 100 courses along the northern coast of South Carolina, it is a mecca for golfers of every level. Yet, there is much more to discover in this vacation hotspot. Spend the day enjoying Myrtle Beach’s plentiful amusement parks, shopping districts and noted coastal seafood cuisine.