The Southport center is approximately 4 miles south of Brunswick Nuclear and 5 miles south of University of NC at Wilmington.
In terms of weather, the best time to visit Southport would be in the spring (from mid-March to early June) or the fall (from mid-September to mid-November). During these months, you can expect temperatures in the high 60s to mid-70s on most days, although they can drop above or below that range. Summer temperatures, meanwhile, tend to average in the upper 70s to mid-80s.
As you might expect, spring is the busiest season for Southport, with summer following close behind. Visiting during fall may give you the best balance of cost and comfort, with temperatures that are still pleasant and lower hotel rates than the peak tourism seasons. Winter sees the fewest number of tourists in Southport, which is good news if you're hunting for hotel bargains. However, temperatures will be chilly during this season. Highs average between 53 and 61 degrees Fahrenheit, so it will be warmer than the country's northern regions but colder than warm-weather travelers would like.
You won't have to look far to find hotel discounts in Southport. Chain hotels like the Comfort Suites Southport and the Wingate by Wyndham Southport provide several opportunities for guests to save money on their stay.
Military members, government employees, senior citizens, and AAA/CAA members all have access to the same discounted rates when they book a room at the Comfort Suites Southport. Just remember to have the appropriate ID handy when you check in so that you can prove you qualify for the discount you selected. If you don't belong to one of these groups, don't worry! Many of the best rates you'll find online are open to everyone via nonrefundable online booking deals. If your plans aren't set in stone, you can also find special online deals that allow you to cancel your reservation for free up to one or two days before your scheduled check-in.
The Wingate by Wyndham Southport offers similar discounts for senior citizens and AAA/CAA members. The military/government rate provides the most savings, followed closely by limited-time sales and online booking deals. Just be sure to check the terms; some deals are nonrefundable, while others allow you to cancel up to the day before your scheduled stay.
For a great value option right in Southport, try Hampton Inn Southport. This 2.5-star property features a 24-hour business center, an on-site bar, fitness facilities, and an outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning or, if they're in a rush, grab an "On the Run" breakfast bag to go. Wi-Fi and parking are free, and laundry services are available. The hotel even has 1050 feet of event space and a meeting room, plus express check-in and check-out options.
Alternatively, consider booking a room at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Southport Oak Island Area. This 2.5-star beach hotel in Bolivia, North Carolina, offers its guests free Wi-Fi and self-parking as well as a complimentary hot breakfast each morning. Get in a workout using the hotel's fitness facilities, catch up on some work in the business center, or kick back and enjoy the cable programming in your room. Rooms also include microwaves, refrigerators, and desks.
Pets are welcome at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. However, the hotel does have restrictions regarding which pets are allowed and which rooms they can stay in, so you'll need to call ahead if you plan to bring your furry friend. Fees will apply.
Fort Johnston is perhaps the biggest historical attraction in Southport. However, the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Southport has been celebrating Independence Day annually since 1795, and today it hosts the state's official celebration every year on July 4.
Fort Johnston has been active during every war in United States' history, starting with the nation's fight for independence. In fact, the fort was attacked and burned down in 1775 as one of the first events in the Revolutionary War. Stop by the fort's Garrison House to browse the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum. The city is also home to the North Carolina Maritime Museum and the Old Brunswick County Jail Museum. City Hall, the River Pilots Tower, and the Old Smithville Burial Grounds are among the town's other historical attractions.
Even beyond these specific sites, a simple stroll through Southport will take visitors back in time. The tree-lined streets and buildings dating back to the 1800s — including historic homes, churches, and landmarks — have been carefully preserved and restored thanks to the efforts of Southport's residents.
Next time you find yourself wishing time could stand still for a little while, consider booking a getaway to Southport, North Carolina. A few days in this charming seaside town could be just what the doctor ordered.
Below are reviews of the city of Southport, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
Sweet little town
Good restaurants. Quiet little town for a nice getaway!
The restaurants were great. I loved The Flying Pan and The old Bridge Diner was great as well.
Visited Bullfrog Corner.
The local places to eat were really good. It was a charming, small town with nice parks and friendly people. Loved it and I will definitely go back.
That it was welcoming everywhere we went.
Southport was welcoming and charming. The shooping was a lot of fun. We ate at Fishy, Fishy and loved it.
The restaurants, history, shops!
Great
Walkable town, friendly folks, beautiful views over the marsh and river.
Quaint with magnificent trees!
Great restaurants - Fishy Fishy, Mr. P's for fantastic prime rib, Oliver's on the Cape Fear plus many more. Many nice shops, especially the unique Christmas Haus.
Charming former fishing/shrimping village, now a nice place to live. Historic small homes, owners mingle nicely with tourists.
Enjoyed the city and area.
Ability to walk around the town. Beach access.
The beach!
Benches, swings, flag ceremony at waterfront park each evening. Just lovely!
Beautiful place, would love to come back
The city has a water walk that you can enjoy in the morning or afternoon. I love that it has many areas to go into and just sit and sip a beer or have dinner. It's a nice quaint town with much to offer.