Southport Live Cam

Spend a day in Southport exploring its historic neigborhoods and many antique shops. Plan to stay for dinner there's plenty of great seafood to eat. Southport is full of charming homes. Standing at the waterside in Southport, NC, today one can easily imagine the town in its beginning; nothing but the Cape Fear River flowing broadly in the foreground, the heavily green oaks behind, the sky alternately bright blue or grimly gray and the overall impression of space and freshness.

Southport, located in Brunswick County, North Carolina, is a charming coastal town known for its rich history, mild climate, and distinctive geography. Nestled along the mouth of the Cape Fear River, this quaint town is a hidden gem with its historic homes, maritime heritage, and scenic waterfront. Once a quiet fishing village, Southport has grown into a popular destination for tourists and residents alike, offering a unique blend of southern charm, maritime traditions, and natural beauty. The town’s deep connection to its history, its moderate coastal climate, and its unique geographical setting make it a significant place in North Carolina’s coastal region.

History

The history of Southport dates back to the early 18th century when European settlers began to establish roots in the region. The town’s strategic location along the Cape Fear River made it an important area for trade, transportation, and defense. Originally known as Smithville, Southport was founded in 1792 and named after Benjamin Smith, a Revolutionary War colonel and later governor of North Carolina. The town was initially developed as a military and trading post, with its location at the mouth of the Cape Fear River providing access to inland plantations and towns.

One of the earliest significant events in Southport’s history was the construction of Fort Johnston in 1748. Built by the British colonial government, the fort was meant to defend the river from potential attacks by Spanish or French forces, as well as pirates. During the American Revolution, Fort Johnston became a key military installation, though it fell into British hands during the war. After the Revolution, the fort was reclaimed by American forces and continued to serve as a military post throughout the 19th century. It played a role in the Civil War as well, when Confederate forces used it to defend the Cape Fear River from Union naval attacks.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Southport continued to develop as a small fishing village and port town. The town was a hub for maritime activities, with fishing, boat building, and shipping being the main industries. Its economy was largely dependent on the river and the Atlantic Ocean, and its residents were deeply connected to the water. By the late 1800s, the town had become a popular vacation spot for inland residents seeking relief from the summer heat, thanks to its cool breezes and scenic views of the river and ocean.

In 1887, the town’s name was changed from Smithville to Southport in an effort to promote it as a major shipping port. However, despite its ideal location, Southport never grew into a large port city, as nearby Wilmington dominated the region’s shipping industry. Nonetheless, Southport thrived as a small town with a strong sense of community and an economy based on fishing, tourism, and maritime industries.

Southport’s historical significance has been recognized through its preservation efforts. The town is home to numerous historic buildings and homes, many of which have been restored and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Walking through the town, visitors can see well-preserved examples of 19th-century architecture, including Victorian homes, churches, and commercial buildings. Southport’s history is also celebrated through events like the annual North Carolina Fourth of July Festival, which has been held in the town since the late 1700s and is one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the state.

Climate

Southport’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, which is typical of coastal regions in the southeastern United States. This type of climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, making it an attractive location for those who enjoy warm weather and a relatively long beach season. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River has a moderating effect on temperatures, helping to keep the town cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter compared to inland areas.

Summers in Southport are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-35°C). The humidity levels can make the heat feel more intense, but the town benefits from cooling breezes coming off the water. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, often occurring in the afternoon or evening as a result of the heat and moisture in the atmosphere. These storms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and occasionally strong winds, but they are usually short-lived.

Winters in Southport are mild compared to much of the United States. Average high temperatures in the winter months range from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 13-17°C), while overnight lows typically stay above freezing. Snowfall is rare, but the town can experience occasional frost or light freezing rain during cold snaps. The mild winter climate makes Southport a popular destination for snowbirds and retirees seeking to escape the colder northern states.

Spring and fall are particularly pleasant seasons in Southport. In the spring, temperatures warm up quickly, with average highs reaching the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (around 21-29°C) by April and May. Flowers bloom, and the town’s many parks and gardens come alive with color. Fall is marked by cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and walking along the waterfront. The hurricane season, which runs from June to November, can bring the threat of tropical storms or hurricanes, but Southport has historically been spared from major damage by most storms, though precautions are always taken during the hurricane season.

Geography

Southport is located in southeastern North Carolina, at the mouth of the Cape Fear River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. This unique geographical setting gives the town its distinctive coastal charm and provides a rich natural environment for residents and visitors to enjoy. The town covers an area of approximately 3.8 square miles (9.8 square kilometers), with much of it consisting of waterfront and marshland. The nearby barrier islands, including Bald Head Island and Oak Island, further enhance the area’s natural beauty and protect Southport from direct exposure to the open ocean.

One of the defining features of Southport’s geography is the Cape Fear River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean just east of the town. The river has played a central role in the town’s history and development, serving as a vital transportation route for ships carrying goods to and from inland areas. The river’s mouth forms a broad estuary, with numerous small islands, marshes, and tidal creeks that provide important habitats for wildlife, including fish, birds, and other aquatic species. The estuary is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

The town’s waterfront is one of its most beloved features. Southport’s riverfront park offers stunning views of the Cape Fear River, the Atlantic Ocean, and the nearby islands. Visitors and residents can watch ships pass by, enjoy the cool breezes off the water, and take in the natural beauty of the coastal landscape. The town’s marina is a hub for boating and fishing activities, and many local businesses cater to the needs of fishermen and boaters. The Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry, which operates across the river to Fort Fisher, provides an important transportation link and is a popular way to experience the scenic beauty of the area.

In addition to its coastal and riverfront areas, Southport is surrounded by forests, marshes, and wetlands, which contribute to its diverse ecosystems. The town’s geography is shaped by the presence of both saltwater and freshwater environments, which support a wide variety of plant and animal species. The nearby Carolina Beach State Park and Brunswick Nature Park offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.

Overall, Southport’s geography, with its river, marshes, islands, and ocean access, creates a unique environment that has shaped its history, economy, and way of life. Whether it’s the scenic waterfront, the historic maritime culture, or the rich biodiversity, the geography of Southport plays an essential role in making it a special place in North Carolina’s coastal region.