Southport, renamed in 1887 but established in the 1700s as Smithville, is a half-hour drive from Wilmington, a short ferry ride from Fort Fisher, and the gateway to two true beach resorts: Oak Island and Bald Head Island.
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Named one of the best family beaches in the U.S., Holden Beach offers island charm, natural beauty, and an endless variety of things to do. From watersports to wine tasting, beachcombing to biking, and everything in between, visitors can have as exciting or relaxing a vacation as they please when it comes to things to do in Holden Beach. After you’re done playing on our beaches, parks and waters, enjoy a taste of Holden Beach’s local flavors and fresh seafood at our selection of great restaurants. And, don’t miss out on getting to know the island natives—sea turtles, crabs, dolphins and other marine creatures—with activities such as turtle watching, crabbing, fishing, birding and more.
