Welcome to Good Life Wilmington, the guide for retirement living in Southeastern North Carolina.
Whether you’re looking for a new place to land, are new to the Wilmington area or have been here for a while, Good Life is a place to find out how to live your best version of the retirement years.
Here we share info about the neighborhoods around the region, as well as rapidly expanding health and wellness options.
And once you’re here, you’ll want to know how to make the most of it – from food festivals to cultural offerings and clubs to connect with.
What makes up a Good Life means different things to different people, so the pages ahead detail a range of resources to inform and engage.
While this is an annual issue, Good Life Wilmington info continues year-round through its website (goodlifewilmington. com) as well as its weekly email newsletter. You can subscribe to receive the newsletter on the website.
Through it, you can find out the latest on things to do in the area, what to know
on topics from real estate to restaurants and rundowns on places to live, dine and explore.
And have questions about the area? Submit them to editor@wilmingtonbiz.com, and we’ll answer them throughout the year. But first, take some time checking out this year’s Good Life issue and find out about:
• Homes + Communities: Get a roundup of 55+ neighborhoods on page 66.
• Health + Wellness: Read about the latest announcements on expanding medical facilities and specialties on page 70.
• Things to Do: Take note of learning and cultural opportunities on page 86.
• Food + Drink: Find out about the latest restaurants to open on page 88.
Cheers, and enjoy living the Good Life .
Vicky Janowski, Editor Wilmington Media + Marketing vjanowski@wilmingtonbiz.com
Real estate broker Sherri Ingle, with Intracoastal
works with homebuyers who are new to the area and helps them figure out how to get acclimated.
by Danielle Desnoyers
Realty, often
Photo
Welcome to You’ve moved to the Cape Fear – now what? Wilmington
More than 70,000 people have moved to the Wilmington metro area in the past five years, If you’re one of them, or someone making the transition now, unpacking the boxes is just the first step to embracing the coastal lifestyle.
“If you are new to the area, make an effort to meet your neighbors –exchange numbers. People in close proximity can be helpful if you ever find yourself in crisis,” advised Sherri Ingle, a real estate broker with The Rising Tide Team at Intracoastal Realty.
A Realtor since 2008, Ingle has worked with many homeowners who landed in the area and had to get the lay of the land.
Besides asking for recommendations on everything from restaurants to doctors to landscapers, a common question from new residents is often how to meet people, Ingle said.
“I always encourage them to get involved with local organizations that peak their interests,” she said.
“Get involved with the community,” Ingle added. “Azaela Festival is a great way to get started and a way to connect with locals and learn more about Wilmington and surrounding communities.”
Transitioning from another area might mean a new pace and new social
landscape, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some ways to start getting acclimated.
EXPLORING THE AREA
The region covers a diverse mix of neighborhoods and scenes.
The Wilmington metro area includes the population center of New Hanover County, the sprawling and fast-growing Brunswick County and still largely rural but also growing Pender County.
While Wilmington has the most residents, Leland is the second-most populous municipality, followed by Oak Island.
The region includes one university, two community colleges, a movie studio, farmland, waterfront homes and historical downtown buildings.
Bald Head Island, accessible by ferry and without car traffic, contains some of the most expensive homes sales in the state. Meanwhile undeveloped barrier islands also dot the area, reachable by boat or kayak.
One of the easiest ways to explore the region is to split it up geographically.
Historic Downtown Wilmington:
Fanning out from the Cape Fear River, downtown Wilmington combines 18th-century seaport history alongside modern apartment buildings. The 70 blocks of downtown’s commercial district include locally owned restaurants, boutiques, bars and tourist shops. A stroll down the nearly 2-mile wooden Riverwalk is a good place to start to take you between the two bridges.
Midtown Wilmington: A loosely defined area, midtown represents the central location of the city,
encompassing the medical services cluster at and around Novant Health’s main 17th Street campus and retail enclaves of Independence Mall and The Pointe at Barclay.
North Brunswick: With 850 square miles of land, Brunswick County is the largest county of the three. It runs from near downtown Wilmington south to the South Carolina state line. Along the way, a number of large neighborhoods – from Brunswick Forest to St. James – draw retiree populations. A fast-growing center of the county is on the northern side. Across the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge from Wilmington, homes and commercial development have sprung up around the Leland area.
Beach areas: A buffet of beach experiences will depend on which direction you head toward the ocean. For a rundown of the different ones, turn to the beach guide on page 7.
SETTING UP HOUSE
For utilities and municipal services: Most of Wilmington is serviced by Duke Energy for electricity. Also within the city limits, the city government offers bundled trash, recycling and yard waste collection services.
In New Hanover County outside city limits, residents contract with private haulers like Waste Management or GLF.
Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) is the primary water and wastewater provider for Wilmington and New Hanover County.
In Brunswick County, drinking water is provided largely by Brunswick County Public Utilities and the Brunswick Regional Water & Sewer (H2GO).
Welcome to Wilmington
And most Pender County residents get their water and sewer services from the county’s Pender Water & Sewer.
For homes using natural gas, Piedmont Natural Gas is a regional provider.
As far as driving around the area goes, new residents have 60 days to register their vehicles and get a North Carolina driver’s license. Appointments are available online weeks in advance on the state’s DMV site (ncdot.gov/dmv) to help avoid wait times.
UNIQUE TO THE COAST
For those moving to the coast for the first time, there is a slight learning curve to preparing for hurricane season. Living in Southeastern North Carolina means keeping an eye on weather reports between June and November.
• Before storm season: Besides supplying hurricane readiness kits, residents also should check homeowners or renters insurance policies and flood insurance; document their homes before storm season; and trim any dead or weak tree branches that hang over roofs.
• Assembling storm supplies should include preparing for the possibility of losing power if staying home during a hurricane, and that means a gallon of water per person and per pet a day; highprotein and shelf-stable food that doesn’t require cooking; flashlights, headlamps and spare batteries; and a supply of critical prescription medications.
• Know the terms: Under a watch, a tropical storm or hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours. Under a warning, a tropical storm/hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.
• If needed, New Hanover and Brunswick counties are mapped out by evacuation zones based on storm surge risk. The “Know Your Zone” system and maps are available at ncdps.gov.
• Returning home: Don’t walk or drive through flood waters, which could hide hazards. Once you return, walk around the outside to check for loose power lines (but do not touch), gas leaks and structural damage. If you smell gas or if there is structural damage, do not enter until local officials have declared it safe. If clearing debris, be careful not to block roadways, fire hydrants and utility boxes. Local officials will provide information on how to properly dispose of debris.
BEACH BY BEACH
Staff Reports
A guide to checking out the coastal towns
Southeastern North Carolina’s beach towns have unique identities. While they all share the Atlantic waves and sandy stretches, deciding which one to spend a day at depends on the atmosphere you’re seeking. There’s boardwalks and arcades for the grandkids, quiet stretches for beachcombers, upscale menus or fish markets for seafood fans and a range of shopping options.
Here is a roundup of some popular area beach towns and what you might find in each of them.
file photo by T.J. Drechsel
BEACH WRIGHTSVILLE
GETTING THERE : Wrightsville Beach is in New Hanover County, accessible by Eastwood Road over the Heide Trask Drawbridge. The nearly 5-mile barrier island has 44 public beach access points, a roughly 2.5-milelong popular walking path and active commercial streets.
PARKING: Paid parking is enforced between March 1 and Oct. 31, 9 a.m.7 p.m. for many locations and until 8 p.m. in some areas. Check parking area signs for hours and instructions for paying.
Standard/nonpremium area rates: $5 an hour or $25 for a full day
Premium area rates: $6 an hour or $30 for a full day
Town park option: If you park at the Wrightsville Beach Municipal Complex, which includes the town park, the first two hours are free. For more info on parking areas as well as an interactive map that shows real-time capacity, go to townofwrightsvillebeach.com/163/ Parking
THINGS TO DO:
Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier for either fishing or to walk out 1,200 feet out over the ocean
23 Salisbury St.
Wrightsville Beach Museum of History to learn about the island history inside a preserved, turn-ofthe-century beach cottage
303 West Salisbury St.
Info: wbmuseumofhistory.com
Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours & Water Taxi to explore the waterways by boat for sunset cruises, birdwatching excursions and narrated local history tours
109 Causeway Drive
Info: wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com
RESTAURANTS TO TRY:
Oceanic, 703 S. Lumina Ave.
Located at the Crystal Pier, the Oceanic’s menu features fresh coastal seafood and seating overlooking or on the pier above the ocean.
South Beach Grill, 100 S. Lumina Ave. Serving the island for over three
decades, this cozy landmark includes locally sourced, farm-to-table Southern coastal cuisine.
La Duna Paradiso, 275 Waynick Blvd. in the Trailborn Surf & Sound hotel
This newer restaurant combines coastal Italian dining with North Carolina local seafood and organic produce from local purveyors.
STORES TO STOP IN:
Lighthouse Beer & Wine, 220 Causeway Drive
Featuring an open-air beer garden for hanging out, Lighthouse also has a curated selection of wines and craft beers for picking up on the way home.
Roberts Grocery, 32 N. Lumina Ave.
A Wrightsville Beach staple, Roberts is the island’s oldest store and has beach necessities as well as popular treats like its Roberts Famous Chicken Salad and shaved ice.
Hallelu, 84 Waynick Blvd.
Featuring women’s clothing, jewelry and shoes, this boutique offers a trendy stop to shop while at the beach.
BEACH CAROLINA
GETTING THERE: Carolina Beach offers a nostalgic and laid-back vibe, with its historical seaside boardwalk, ice cream shops and local boutiques. The New Hanover County beach town is about 15 miles away from Wilmington and the main thoroughfares of South College and Carolina Beach roads lead you to it.
PARKING : Paid parking in Carolina Beach is enforced from March 1 through Oct. 31 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Standard on-street parking: $5 per hour
Standard parking lots: $6 an hour or $25 for a full day
Premium parking lots: $7 an hour or $35 for a full day (enforced yearround)
On street parking: $5 an hour
Info: carolinabeach.gov/249/Parking THINGS TO DO:
Carolina Beach Boardwalk for a pedestrian-only stroll along wooden walkways featuring ocean views and local gift shops. It also serves as a
Federal Point History Center to explore indoor exhibits detailing the lower Cape Fear region’s local history, a research library and archives
1121-A N. Lake Park Blvd.
Info: federal-point-history.org
Carolina Beach State Park houses
hiking trails, a marina, camping and overlooks of the Cape Fear River
1010 State Park Road
Info: ncparks.gov
RESTAURANTS TO TRY:
Havana’s Restaurant, 1 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Set inside a 1916 craftsman beach cottage, this casual seafood restaurant includes indoor or outdoor patio seating.
Cape Fear Boil Company, 1140 N. Lake Park Blvd., Unit F
Cape Fear Boil provides customers with seafood steam pots to-go or as well as catering.
Soul Flavor, 716 N Lake Park Blvd., Unit 3
Along with global-inspired dishes, Soul Flavor’s menu also features vegetarian and vegan options as well.
STORES TO STOP IN:
CB Surf Shop, 209 S. Lake Park Blvd
Offers a selection of comfortable resort wear, sun protection and casual footwear
Salty Chic Boutique, 107 N. Lake Park Blvd.
This retail shop carries trendy women’s apparel, resort footwear, beach towels and an array of coastal accessories and jewelry.
Seaside Shenanigans, 201 N. Lake Park Blvd.
This is a stop to discover coastalthemed home decor, unique gifts, handcrafted keepsakes and beachside treasures tucked inside Celtic Creamery.
photo
c/o Wilmington and Beaches
BEACH KURE
GETTING THERE: Kure Beach blends into the sound end of Carolina Beach – Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Fort Fisher make up what’s known as Pleasure Island. Beyond Kure Beach, the commercial districts fade out and lead to a Civil War historic site, a state aquarium (currently closed for a multi-year renovation) and landing spot for a ferry ride to Southport.
PARKING: Paid parking in Kure Beach is enforced from March 15 through Sept. 30, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Standard rates: $6 an hour or $25 for a full day for all town lots and on-street spaces
Weekly passes: available for $125 For more info on parking areas as
well as to pay for spaces online, go to townofkurebeach.org/parking.
THINGS TO DO:
Kure Beach Fishing Pier for a stroll along a historic wooden pier that stands as the oldest on the Atlantic coast
Atlantic Avenue and K Avenue
Fort Fisher State Historic Site includes an outdoor walk along an trail encircling the historic remains of a major Civil War earthen fort.
1610 Fort Fisher Blvd. S.
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area to admire protected salt marshes and local bird-watching spots via visitor areas and flat trails tucked away from the main surf 1000 Loggerhead Road
RESTAURANTS TO TRY:
Freddie’s Italian Restaurant, 105 K Ave.
Located next to the town pier, Freddie’s serves family-recipe Italian cuisine in a cozy pub atmosphere.
Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill, 113 K Ave.
Also steps from the pier, Jack Mackerel’s specializes in coastal seafood, Caribbean-influenced fare and prime rib nights.
Riverview Restaurant, 1121 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Located on the Blakeslee Air Force Recreation Area in Fort Fisher but open to the public this restaurant sits beside the Cape Fear River with sunset views.
file
photo by Jacob Reinwand
TOPSAIL
GETTING THERE : About an hour north of Wilmington, up U.S. 17, Topsail Beach offers a quieter escape from heavily visited beach towns in the area during the summer.
PARKING: Paid parking is enforced from March 1 through Oct. 31. Oceanfront lots: Enforcement runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at a rate of $6 an hour (up to 4 hours) or $30 for a full day.
South end parking lot (premium lot): Enforcement runs from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., at a rate of $7 an hour (up to 4 hours) or $35 for a full day. For more parking info, go to topsailbeachnc.gov/Visitors/PublicAccesses-and-Parking.
THINGS TO DO:
Jolly Roger Pier for a walk down an 850-foot oceanfront landmark that offers a flat, stable surface for enjoying panoramic Atlantic views
BEACH
803 Ocean Blvd.
Missiles and More Museum to explore historical exhibits detailing the island’s unique secret missile program 720 Channel Blvd
Patio Playground for an afternoon of 1950s-style miniature golf 807 S. Anderson Blvd.
RESTAURANTS TO TRY:
The Breezeway Restaurant, 634 Channel Blvd.
Operating as an island landmark since 1949, this family-owned waterfront institution serves Southern fried seafood and spectacular sunset views over the sound.
Beach Shop and Grill, 701 S. Anderson Blvd.
A spot for fine dining, Beach Shop’s bistro cuisine menu highlights seasonal food and an award-winning
wine list.
Cora's Isle-End Deli, 712 S. Anderson Blvd.
This deli is good for a lunch stop or to-go pickup with sandwiches, homemade salads and quick bites.
STORES TO STOP IN:
South End Outfitters, 627 S. Anderson Blvd.
This store carries premium coastal apparel brands, footwear, sunprotection clothing and outdoor accessories.
Topsail Island Trading Company, 722 S. Anderson Blvd.
A must-visit local shop for visitors, it’s known for its expansive menu of homemade fudge as well as coastal gifts and home décor.
Gift Basket of Topsail Island, 702 S. Anderson Blvd.
This gift shop also includes a variety of beach souvenirs, books and coastal holiday ornaments.
photo courtesy of Greater Topsail Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
Cape Fear Region Overview
New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties cover nearly 2,000 square miles in Southeastern North Carolina –including some of the fastest-growing areas in the state. Here are some quick facts about the region.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY
POPULATION
Total Area (square miles) 191.5
Population (2025 census estimates) 245,959
Population (2020 base) 225,704
Population growth (2020-25) 9%
HOUSEHOLDS
Total households (2020-24) 104,856
Housing units (2025) 128,402
Owner-occupied housing unit rate (2020-24) 61.4%
Median value of owner-occupied housing units (2020-24) $387,800
Median gross rent (2020-24) $1,417
Building permits (2025) 2,332
INCOME
Median household income (2020-24, in 2024 dollars) $75,166
Persons in poverty 11.7%
GOVERNMENT
New Hanover County Government 230 Government Center Drive Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 798-7311 nhcgov.com
Amenities: Accessible fishing pier, picnic shelters, boat ramp for kayaks and small boats
BRUNSWICK COUNTY POPULATION
Total Area (square miles) 191.5
Population (2025 census estimates) 174,702
Population (2020 base) 136,695
Population growth (2020-25) 27.8%
HOUSEHOLDS
Total households (2020-24) 69,124
Housing units (2025) 116,023
Owner-occupied housing unit rate (2020-24) 84.6%
Median value of owner-occupied housing units (2020-24) $349,800
Median gross rent (2020-24) $1,351
Building permits (2025) 4,457
INCOME
Median household income (2020-24, in 2024 dollars) $77,024
Persons in poverty 9%
GOVERNMENT
Brunswick County Government 30 Government Center Drive NE Bolivia, NC 28422 (800) 442-7033
brunswickcountync.gov
Town of Leland
102 Town Hall Drive Leland, NC 28451 (910) 371-0148
townofleland.com
Town of Oak Island 4601 E. Oak Island Drive Oak Island, NC 28465 (910) 278-5011
oakislandnc.gov
City of Boiling Spring Lakes 9 East Boiling Spring Road
Boiling Spring Lakes, NC 28461 (910) 363-0025
cityofbsl.org
COUNTY PARKS
Here are some of the county’s parks. Go to brunswickcountync.gov/367/ Parks-Recreation for a full list.
Brunswick Nature Park , 2601 River Road
Amenities: 911 acres of undeveloped wilderness, kayak/canoe launch site, picnic pavilion, hiking and biking trails
Leland Community Park , 1490 Village Road NE
Amenities: Baseball fields, community building, paved walking path
Ocean Isle Beach Park, 6483 Old Georgetown Road
Amenities: Tennis courts, four pickleball courts, baseball and softball fields, dog park, amphitheater, multipurpose field
PENDER COUNTY
POPULATION
Total Area (square miles) 191.5
Population (2025 census estimates) 72,111
Population (2020 base) 60,203
Population growth (2020-25) 19.8%
HOUSEHOLDS
Total households (2020-24) 25,291 Housing units (2025) 34,743
Owner-occupied housing unit rate (2020-24) 82.7%
Median value of owner-occupied housing units (2020-24) $299,000
Median gross rent (2020-24) $1,106 Building permits (2025) 833
INCOME
Median household income (2020-24, in 2024 dollars) $80,396 Persons in poverty 10.4%
GOVERNMENT
Pender County Government
805 S. Walker St. P.O. Box 5 Burgaw, NC 28425 (910) 259-1200
pendercountync.gov
Town of Burgaw 109 N. Walker St. Burgaw, NC 28425 (910) 259-2151
burgawnc.gov
Town of Surf City P.O. Box 2475
Surf City, NC 28445 (910) 328-4131
surfcitync.gov
COUNTY PARKS
Here are some of the county’s parks. Go to pendercountync.gov/576/ Parks-Recreation for a full list.
Hampstead Kiwanis Park , 586 Sloop Point Loop Road
Amenities: 53 acres with athletic fields, walking trail with fitness stations, picnic area
Millers Pond in Rocky Point, 12762
US Hwy. 117
Amenities: 7-acre pond surrounded by a half-mile walking trail, fishing, kayaking, picnicking
L Down by the Water
iving by the water is what attracts many people who move to the coast.
But the dream of waking up to ocean waves or marsh vistas comes with some caveats and things to know about waterfront homeownership.
It also puts pressure on local and state regulators to balance construction with natural impacts.
Pender County officials, for example, recently created a category for “coastal neighborhoods” in its comprehensive plan that “provides unique single-family housing options near natural coastal habitats.”
Such areas are located east of U.S. 17 and are generally close to estuarine waters, according to the plan. “Much of the area within this category includes established neighborhoods with a low to medium density development pattern. Low-impact development methods are encouraged for new development to reduce stormwater runoff impacts and support adjacent coastal surface water quality.”
The recommendation applies directly to communities like Hampstead, an unincorporated area along U.S. 17 that has 38 miles of coastline along the Intracoastal Waterway.
To those who advocate for the area’s businesses and tourism, coastal neighborhood category methods make sense.
“We need to protect the environment that attracted us to beautiful Pender County,” said Tammy Proctor, executive director of the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.
In some cases, land trusts have taken oceanfront property off the development table, such as the N.C. Coastal Land Trust’s purchase last year of nearly 100 acres on Topsail Island. The group recently transferred ownership of the undeveloped land to the state.
Because of the Wilmington area’s exposure to tropical storm- and hurricane-related damage from wind and flooding, coastal homeowners also have
to be aware of insurance as a part of their costs.
Residents of New Hanover County beaches faced a 16% homeowners insurance rate increase last year, and another 15.9% increase this year, based on the latest negotiated increase by state regulators.
According to an analysis from LendingTree based on N.C. Department of Insurance data from 2024, the average cost of homeowners insurance in the state's 25 largest municipalities is nearly $2,400. Overall, the report states that average homeowners insurance rates in North Carolina have increased by 44% between 2020 and midApril 2025.
The cost of insurance rises dramatically for coastal and beach areas, with Wilmington residents paying an average of about $7,200 a year for home insurance, according to LendingTree.
“Wilmington is growing fast and in a catastrophe-prone coastal area. That means more exposure. Historically, North Carolina was a little bit lower on rates, so now it’s catching up all at once. That’s why you’re seeing such sharp increases instead of gradual ones,” said Monique Hroncich, a licensed insurance agent working for Wilmington-based The Huneycutt Group.
Homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage.
“If you live in a flood plain, near a river or if you live near the coast, you should consider purchasing flood insurance for your home,” the state insurance department advises.
When looking at homes, buyers can put the addresses into the N.C. Flood Risk Information System (fris.nc.gov) to see if a property’s flood risk.
And when looking to build a home, the Coastal Area Management Act, or CAMA, dictates permitting rules near defined areas such as coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and the coastal shoreline.
But the additional considerations – from permitting to building materials – are worth it for some homeowners who think the tradeoff is worth it for the locale.
158 S. Beach Road, Figure Eight Island photo c/o of Intracoastal Realty
6313 Sea Mist Court
Waterway Neighborhoods
Here are just some of the communities in the area with waterway views.
Landfall
This 2,200-acre gated community near Wrightsville Beach includes homes on the Intracoastal Waterway. With about 2,000 homesites, the neighborhood development started in 1987. Within its gates, there are sub-neighborhoods and a country club with 45 holes of golf as well as tennis and pickleball courts. Overall, the neighborhood is made up of three main areas that include custom home sites, patio home communities and villa communities and condominiums. The main areas are Landfall I, Pembroke Jones Park and Landfall II. landfall.org
Figure Eight Island
This exclusive, 1,300-acre private barrier island is located just north of Wrightsville Beach and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Accessible only via a private, guarded swing bridge, the neighborhood holds nearly 500 luxury homes. The private Figure Eight Island Yacht Club provides dining, tennis and a pool. figureeightisland.org
St.
James
Spanning over 6,000 acres along the Intracoastal Waterway near Southport, St. James is a gated community in Brunswick County. The neighborhood includes a full-service, 475-slip marina. The community contains custom single-family homes, townhomes and villa complexes, as well as 81 holes of golf, fitness centers and tennis facilities. stjamespoanc.org
South Harbour Village
South Harbour Village is on Oak Island’s mainland section. The neighborhood includes a variety of property types including condos, townhomes, patio homes, custom homes, estate homes and boat slips. The South Harbour Marina also has restaurants, small businesses and a chapel. shvassociation.com
River Bluffs
This 300-acre-plus riverfront community is along the Northeast Cape Fear River in Castle Hayne. Homes range from low-maintenance cottages to multi-million- dollar custom waterfront estates. There is an emphasis on environmental preservation, with over a third of the development’s natural landscape intact. Amenities include a marina with boat slips for rent, a half-mile elevated riverwalk, a fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts and a beach-entry swimming pool. riverbluffsliving.com
photo c/o of Intracoastal Realty
Neighborhoods
A growing number of communities are tailoring to residents who are 55 and older, including single-family homes, apartment complexes and independent living facilities. H ere are some in the tri-county area.
Inspire at Brunswick Forest 6146 Liberty Hall Drive, Leland, NC 28451 (910) 756-5714
inspirebrunswickforest.com
Description: An active adult community with one- and twobedroom apartments for rent in Leland
Amenities: Resort-style pool, fitness center, clubhouse, arts spaces and more
Nearby offerings: Restaurants include Farmhouse Kitchen, Pizzetta’s Pizzeria and Brunswick Beer and Cider
Description: A premier, agerestricted 55+ neighborhood featuring low-maintenance, singlefamily ranch homes built for active adults
Amenities: Resort-style clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts, and dedicated lifestyle director
Nearby offerings: Located near the Brunswick Riverwalk, Cape Fear National Golf Course and a short drive to Southport beaches and downtown Wilmington
Cambridge Village of Wilmington 1019 Cambridge Village Way, Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 239-6500 cvsliving.com/wilmington
Description: An upscale, resortstyle independent living and active
adult rental community focused on holistic wellness and optimal living
Amenities: Heated indoor saltwater pool, Cambridge Fitness center, full-service Village Restaurant & Pub, movie theater, on-site salon/spa, and weekly housekeeping
Nearby offerings: Close to the Mayfaire Town Center shopping area as well as Wrightsville
Description: A luxury, independent senior living continuing care retirement community on a scenic 58-acre campus in northern New Hanover County
Amenities: Indoor saltwater pool,
hobby shop, community garden, Central Bark dog park, library and dining venues such as the Magnolia Room and Tavern on the Pond
Nearby offerings: Positioned close to the Porters Neck Country Club and local shopping centers
The Enclave at Riverlights (Del Webb Wilmington) 4216 Riverlights Drive, Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 909-4031 riverlightsliving.com
Description: A 55+ age-restricted active adult neighborhood that is one part of the master-planned riverfront community of Riverlights
Amenities: Exclusive 55+ clubhouse, zero-entry pool, fitness facility, tennis and pickleball courts, plus access to communitywide 38-acre lake trails
Nearby offerings: Marina Village waterfront shopping and dining, Club Golf Indoor and access to the Cape Fear River
Turtle Bay of Southport
5090 Turtle Bay Drive, Southport, NC 28461
(910) 457-4563
premierhomesnc.com
Description: A boutique, lowmaintenance 55+ active adult community of single-family patio homes and duplexes
Amenities: Low-maintenance landscape packages, walking paths, neighborhood social clubhouse and community gathering spaces
Nearby offerings: Located minutes from the historic Southport waterfront dining, local boutiques, Southport Marina and Oak Island beaches
Oak Grove at Blake Farm
49 North Assembly Drive, Wilmington, NC 28411 (910) 776-4288
oakgroveatblakefarm.com
Description: A new, coastalinspired active adult community offering upscale one- and twobedroom apartment homes
Amenities: Resort-style swimming pool, fitness and wellness studio, resident great room, rooftop lounge, golf simulator, courtyard fire pits and a dedicated pet park
Nearby offerings: Situated in the growing Scotts Hill medical and
retail corridor off U.S. 17; close to the upcoming Blake Farm commercial hub
Trinity Grove
631 Junction Creek Drive, Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 442-3000
trinitygrove.net
Description: A faith-based, nonprofit senior living community managed by Lutheran Services Carolinas that utilizes a neighborhood-style design to offer short-term rehabilitation, 24-hour skilled nursing care and specialized memory care
Amenities: Therapy gym, internet café, full-service hair salon/ barbershop, an on-site chapel, secure courtyard gardens, restaurant-style dining and an outdoor children’s playground for visiting family members
Nearby offerings: Situated in southern New Hanover County near the Myrtle Grove and Monkey Junction areas; a short drive from Carolina Beach, Halyburton Park and the Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center corridor
Assisted Living Options
Good Life Wilmington’s sister publication, the Greater Wilmingt on Business Journal, publishes an annual list of local assisted living and independent living facilities. The list is based on voluntary surveys sent to facilities in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.
Places that do not submit answers aren’t included, so this is not a comprehensive list below, but it does include details about many of the region’s options. The list is ranked and listed in order below by the number of residents at each facility as of November 2024. The Business Journal will publish an updated list in its annual Book on Business publication. For more info, email editor@wilmingtonbiz.com.
Type of residents accepted: Independent Services offered: Fine dining; meal delivery service; leisure and concierge services; regular housekeeping and linen service; 24-hour security staff; cutting edge hobby shop, village garden, transportation to shopping, grocery stores and doctor appointments; a 24-hour Resident Care Center & Licensed Home Care Agency; fitness center with indoor pool, salon services, auditorium; discounted green fees at neighboring golf courses
Year founded: 1988
Cambridge Village 75 Cavalier Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 239-9500
cambridgevillageofwilmington.com
No. of residents: 250
No. of units: 219
Type of residents accepted: 65+ independent adults who are ready to enjoy a maintenance-free, all-inclusive apartment style residency. Residents with care needs have options for care available all within the community. Services offered: Hybrid senior living community with multiple on-site healthcare partners; allinclusive resort-like rental includes $400 credit for dining, pub, room service, smoothie bar and salon; transportation, housekeeping, Wi-Fi, fitness and saltwater pool, hot tub and steam room with 30 classes/week also included; studio, one and twobedroom apartments Year founded: 2015
Carolina Bay at Autumn Hall
630 Carolina Bay Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 769-7500
carolinabayatautumnhall.com
No. of residents: 193
No. of units: 158
Type of residents accepted: Independent living, assisted living, memory care and rehab Services offered: Planned continuing care retirement community with flexible meal options, 24-hour emergency response, weekly maid service, on-site healthcare and rehab, life enrichment programs, wellness center, scheduled transportation and spa/salon Year founded: 2015
Brightmore of Wilmington Independent Living
2324 S. 41st St., Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 350-1980
brightmoreofwilmington.com
No. of residents: 137
No. of units: 136
Type of residents accepted: Seniors who desire a community atmosphere offering 24-hour security with other amenities and nonmedical services as
well as access to additional services if or when needed
Services offered: Rental retirement living with studio, one and twobedroom apartments with full kitchens and porches; monthly fee includes utilities, cable, Wi-Fi, chefprepared meals, housekeeping and flat linen service, emergency call, transportation and complete enrichment/wellness program with social activities and classes Year founded: 1997
Champions Assisted Living at The Davis Community 1007 Porters Neck Road, Wilmington, NC 28411 (910) 686-6462
thedaviscommunity.org
No. of residents: 100
No. of units: 120
Type of residents accepted: Offers assisted living and memory care to seniors in a community environment with the look and feel of home; campus offers a continuum of care Services offered: Continuum of care in an all-inclusive community that includes private suites and private bath, personal care, medication administration, 24-hour nursing professionals, meals and snacks,
photo
c/oCambridge Village
Homes + Communities
housekeeping, laundry services, medical transportation, activities, church services and wine socials, membership to Wellness Pavilion, WiFi and DIRECTV Year founded: 1999
The Commons at BrightmoreAssisted Living and Memory Care
2324 S. 41st St., Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 335-2945
brightmoreofwilmington.com
No. of residents: 92
No. of units: 100
Type of residents accepted: Residents who need more moderate to substantial assistance with activities of daily living Services offered: Hands-on personal care for individuals who are medically stable but need help with meals, bathing, grooming and medication administration and management; transportation; 24-hour staff, daily housekeeping and laundry service, three meals per day and snacks, beauty/ barber shop, social activities; secure memory support area with an enclosed safe courtyard; on-site therapy with gym and services Year founded: 2003
Type of residents accepted: For residents that require individualized assistance with daily living, memory support, rehabilitation or skilled nursing Services offered: Assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation, skilled nursing Year founded: 2015
The Kempton at Brightmore 2298 S. 41st St., Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 332-6899
brightmoreofwilmington.com
No. of residents: 62
No. of units: 54
Type of residents accepted: Assisted living levels 1-3 with mild to moderate needs for assistance Services offered: Assisted living and Alzheimer’s care to individuals with mild to moderate needs in private apartments Year founded : 2003
Options Medical More
By Cierra Noffke
With growth comes the need for additional health services
| Photo by Daria Amato
More medical facilities and providers have been added to the area in recent years. And there’s potential for that to continue as more patients move to the region.
Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center operates the area’s flagship 823-bed hospital on South 17th Street. But the health system also is building in other parts of the county.
“We really need to push services out to where people live and to our small community facilities,” said Laurie Whalin, president of NHRMC and acute care operations for the Novant Health Coastal Region.
This year, the region is expected to welcome a 250,000-square-foot Novant Health hospital in Scotts Hill, an ambulatory surgery center in Leland, a midtown outpatient clinic and an expanded MedNorth campus downtown among its new healthcare facilities.
Following Novant Health’s 2021 acquisition of the hospital, Novant committed to investing $2.5 billion to expand the region’s health care infrastructure as part of the purchase agreement with New Hanover County.
Whalin said the organization is well underway to completing that benchmark. “We’re on the trajectory of really committing to about $2 billion of that $2.5 billion in five years’ time,” Whalin said earlier this year.
Novant Health is not the only major provider in the area. MedNorth has made a commitment to underserved communities, and physician-led Wilmington Health has operated locally since 1971. But Novant has helmed the expansion of medical services in the region and established itself as the region’s biggest employer.
In February, Novant Health’s board approved an additional $1 billion for future projects – including a proposed 120-bed heart and vascular patient tower on South 17th Street – signaling that the region’s health care expansions are far from over.
Wilmington Health this spring recently purchased land in midtown Wilmington near The Pointe at Barclay with plans to construct a new 64,000-square-foot medical office building on the site.
The project will bring a range of clinical and diagnostic services under one roof, according to Brian Voth, Wilmington Health’s chief development officer.
“Midtown II will feature advanced imaging capabilities, including CT and MRI, a full-service, highly automated laboratory and modern clinical space designed to support both urgent care and specialty services,” Voth said. “The facility will also include dedicated space for clinical research, reinforcing our commitment to advancing care and bringing new treatment opportunities to our patients.”
The 66-bed Scotts Hill hospital is Novant Health’s
largest expansion project in the area and will fulfill an important need for residents of northern New Hanover and Pender counties, who have long had to travel to South 17th Street for care.
The hospital is designed to be a “one-stop destination” for healthcare needs with a surgical focus: It has eight operating rooms and six procedure rooms, as well as a 60,000-square-foot medical office building that opened in 2024 and includes a cancer center with medical and radiation oncology.
The facility has also been designed with capacity for future growth, hospital officials said, with plans to eventually build additional medical office buildings on the Pender County side of the land.
“We have a tremendous opportunity at Scotts Hill to meet the community needs,” said Grant Rush, president of the Novant Health Scotts Hill Medical Center. “Not just in Scotts Hill, but our communities in Hampstead and further north.”
Closer to the flagship hospital on South 17th Street, Novant Health’s midtown outpatient clinic is slated to open this year, and several new projects have been announced for completion in the next five to seven years.
The 153,000-square-foot outpatient clinic, located in a former Verizon call center off Shipyard Boulevard in Wilmington, is expected to open the first two floors by the end of the year, featuring a variety of services, including an OB/GYN clinic and a pharmacy. The third floor, featuring infusion therapy, is slated to open in 2027.
Pending state approval, Novant Health’s recently announced $1 billion investment could bring three medical expansions to the area. The health system announced plans to construct a new 60-room physical rehabilitation hospital on Wrightsville Avenue, a new 120-bed heart and vascular (HVI) patient tower on South 17th Street and a second 80,000-square-foot heart and vascular medical office on Physicians Drive.
Additionally, Novant outlined plans to renovate two floors of NHRMC, including endoscopy and surgical services, to optimize clinical spaces.
In Brunswick County, Novant Health is opening the doors of its 16,000-square-foot ambulatory surgery center in Leland this summer.
The new ambulatory center will have two operating rooms, two procedure rooms and specialists who offer a range of surgical procedures.
The county also houses Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, which Novant Health opened in 2011 as a 74-bed facility in Bolivia to replace a previous hospital building in Supply.
To keep up with the region’s growth, Novant announced in October plans to update the Bolivia hospital by adding an expanded MRI suite and a cardiac catheterization lab. That announcement also included the news that Novant filed for a certificate
of need to build a new 20-bed hospital along U.S. 74/76, as well as a freestanding emergency department near Carolina Shores.
Columbus Regional Healthcare System filed its own certificate of need for a 30-bed hospital in Delco, just miles from Novant’s planned hospital.
Columbus Regional Healthcare, a Whiteville-based provider, has been expanding into the region since 2022 and held a groundbreaking ceremony for a 68,000-square-foot ambulatory surgery center near the Brunswick Forest community in December.
The steady population increase could lead to another new community hospital, but who will build it depends on state regulators.
Earlier this year, the North Carolina State Medical Facilities Plan identified a need for 225 beds in New Hanover County. As a result, health systems are showing interest to fulfill that need.
In May, UNC Health officials said they plan apply for a community hospital on a 62-acre proposed site on the southeast corner of South 17th Street and Shipyard Boulevard in New Hanover County.
UNC Health’s proposed community hospital would offer a range of specialties, including emergency care, cardiology, oncology, OBGYN and more. The proposal still requires state approval through North Carolina’s certificate of need (CON) process, and state regulators would hold a public hearing later this summer.
The exact size of the proposed hospital has not yet been finalized, though Ernie Bovio, regional president of UNC Health’s Southeast Coastal Region, said that "a lot of it's dependent upon the physician support" and that UNC Health will apply for "a big chunk" of the identified 225 beds.
“With the growth that’s taken place, the population density and the projected growth,” he said, “there really needs to be more capacity, more access and more choice and an alternative.”
Area Physician Groups & Southeastern NC Hospitals
On these pages are directories of list of local doctor offices and area hospitals , according to info from voluntary surveys compiled in late 2025. Groups in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties that did not respond to the surveys are not included below. For more info, email editor@wilmingtonbiz.com.
Specialties: Cardiology, family and internal medicine, gastroenterology, endoscopy center, general surgery, surgical oncology, maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics and pediatric specialties, psychiatry, pulmonary and sleep medicine, rheumatology and more Hospital affiliation: Novant Health NHRMC and Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center
Wilmington Health 1202 Medical Center Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 341-3300 wilmingtonhealth.com
No. of local doctors: 125
No. of NP/PAs: 153
No. of nurses: 151
Specialties: Primary care services through family medicine, internal medicine, OB/GYN and pediatrics departments; urgent care services; including Today’s Cares, Today’s Care Pediatrics, Today’s Care+ and Urgent Care in Jacksonville; specialty care services ranging 35+ specialties, as well as a state-of-the-art endoscopy and surgery center, as well as ambulatory surgery center Hospital affiliation: Not listed
Gregory Bebb and Elizabeth Weinberg are surgeons with independently owned Wilmington Surgical Associates.
No. of local doctors: 67
No. of NP/PAs: 54
No. of nurses: 45
Specialties: Advanced orthopedic and spine care, innovations in musculoskeletal health, comprehensive solutions for conditions affecting bones, muscles and joints; operates across 18 locations, offering a wide range of services including orthopedic clinics; physical therapy and hand therapy centers; orthopedic urgent care; walk-in access to specialized orthopedic care for acute injuries; ACR-accredited MRI facilities
Hospital affiliation: Novant Health, Novant Health NHRMC Orthopedic Hospital, Brunswick Surgery Center, Wilmington SurgCare, Dosher Memorial Hospital, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Onslow Memorial Hospital, The Surgical Center of Morehead City, Carolinas East, and Carteret Health Care
Hospital affiliation: Novant Health NHRMC, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Novant Health Pender Medical Center, Dosher Memorial Hospital
North American Partners in Anesthesia
2131 S. 17th St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 442-1100 napaanesthesia.com
No. of local doctors: 32
Specialties: Anesthesiology with subspecialty training in pediatrics, cardiothoracic, regional/pain management, neurosurgical and critical care medicine
Hospital affiliation: Novant Health NHRMC, Cape Fear Hospital, Novant
Scotts Hill Surgicenter, Dosher Memorial Hospital, Novant Health Pender Medical Center, Brunswick EmergeOrtho ASC
UNC Health Children’s
Wilmington
2131 S. 17th St., Wilmington, NC 28401
(910) 667-7360 | med.unc.edu/ pediatrics/specialty care
No. of local doctors: 35
No. of NP/PAs: 31
No. of nurses: 72
Specialties: Pediatric: cardiology, critical care, endocrinology, gastroenterology, hematology/ oncology, inpatient services, neonatology, neurology, neurosurgery, nephrology, newborn care, pulmonology, rheumatology
Hospital affiliation: Novant, UNC Health Children's-Chapel Hill, UNC Health Southeastern, Onslow Memorial Hospital, Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, Columbus Regional Health System
Wilmington Eye
1729 New Hanover Medical Park Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 763-3601
wilmingtoneye.com
No. of local doctors: 27
No. of NP/PAs: 1
No. of nurses: 21
Specialties: Ophthalmology
Hospital affiliation: Wilmington Eye Surgery Center, Novant Health NHRMC
and treatment of digestive and liver diseases including colorectal cancer screening
Wilmington Surgical Associates
2739 Iron Gate Drive, Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 763-7363
Wilmingtonsurgical.com
No. of local doctors: 6
No. of NP/PAs: 3
No. of nurses: 3
Specialties: General and abdominal surgery, minimally invasive surgery (robotic and laparoscopic), breast, surgery, oncologic surgery, bariatric surgery, colon surgery, vein and wound care, skin surgery
Hospital affiliation: Novant Health NHRMC
Coastal Vascular Institute PA 1411 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 343-0811
Dosher Memorial Hospital 924 N. Howe St., Southport, NC 28461 (910) 457-3800 | www.dosher.org
No. of licensed beds: 25
No. of physicians: 75
No. of local staff: 425
Affiliation: None-Independent
Novant Health New Hanover Orthopedic Hospital 5301 Wrightsville Ave., Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 667-8100 | NovantHealth.org
No. of licensed beds: See Novant Health NHRMC listing
No. of physicians: See Novant Health
NHRMC listing
No. of local staff: See Novant Health
NHRMC listing
Affiliation: Novant Health
Hilary Hafeken plays pickleball during a class Pickle & Taps in Wilmington
Down Time
For staying active, the area has many indoor and outdoor recreational activities that take advantage of local facilities. Here are just a few ideas to get out and about.
PICKLEBALL
House of Pickleball
115 Kay Todd Road, Leland, NC 28451 (910) 253-7780 houseofpickleball.com
This indoor pickleball facility features 12 dedicated courts. House of Pickleball, or HOP, has over 800 paid members and more than 16,000 occasional members who play the fast-growing sport.
This golf resort features six dedicated outdoor hard pickleball courts equipped with permanent lines and nets. Located next to the Pavilion at Beau Rivage, the facility offers court reservations, league play, corporate team-building events and easy access to equipment rentals, food and drinks at the resort's poolside Tiki Bar.
This indoor pickleball venue features 10 permanent hard courts,
including eight standard and two championship-sized courts optimized for tournament play. The climatecontrolled facility offers leagues and a bar serving local beers and snacks.
GOLF
Landfall Country Club
800 Sun Runner Place, Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 256-8411 countrycluboflandfall.com
This private, member-owned club is located within a gated community just minutes from Wrightsville Beach. It features 45 holes of championship golf designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, alongside tennis, fitness and dining facilities.
Wilmington Municipal Golf Course
photo by Madeline Gray
311 Donald Ross Drive, Wilmington, NC 28409 (910) 791-0558 | wilmingtonnc.gov
Designed in 1926 by Donald Ross, this historic 18-hole public course provides a classic golf experience. Open yearround, it offers a challenging yet accessible layout that serves both local residents and visitors to the Wilmington area.
Cape Fear National at Brunswick Forest 1281 Cape Fear National Drive, Leland, NC 28451 (910) 383-3283 brunswickforest.com
Located inside the Brunswick Forest community, this 18-hole championship course was designed by Tim Cate. The facility offers dailyfee play and features a challenging Scottish-Pinehurst look with heavily undulating greens and pristine coastal landscaping.
MARINAS
Port City Marina 10 Harnett St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 251-6151 | portcitymarina.com
This protected, full-service deepwater marina is located in historic downtown Wilmington along the Cape Fear River. It features over 200 floating concrete wet slips capable of accommodating boats up to 400 feet.
Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway near the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge, this full-service marina provides access for transient and local boaters. It features a 300-plus-foot floating dock, a full-service fueling station and is located near waterfront dining.
This yacht club offers launching points for recreational boating and private fishing. Located near Masonboro Inlet, it provides its members with robust amenities, direct ocean access and wet or dry slip options.
This outdoor venue serves as the official home for the Wilmington chapter of the Premier Bocce Association. Launched for seasonal league play, the social league hosts games, bringing together casual players and teams looking for a mix of friendly competition.
Town Center Park
11 E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469 (910) 579-2166 | ncbrunswick.com
Located by the Museum of Coastal
Carolina, this community park features a dedicated outdoor bocce ball court alongside a promenade walking trail and an outdoor performance stage.
Spanning 35 acres in Brunswick County, this regional district park offers public outdoor recreation amenities including a dedicated bocce ball area and shuffleboard courts.
This indoor axe-throwing bar features dedicated throwing lanes where trained “Axperts” provide safety and technique coaching. The venue hosts formal leagues four times a year and offers a selection of craft beers, wine and ciders.
This destination blends axe throwing with a massive board game library and classic pinball. The venue offers competitive local leagues as well as a wide selection of regional craft beers and family-friendly beverages.
by
photo
Jeff Nass Photography
Port City Marina, located in downtown Wilmington along the Cape Fear River
Newcomers Riding Wave the of
By Randall Kirkpatrick | Photos by Madeline Gray
Joan and Jay Phillips accelerated their move from Connecticut to Leland, which was originally planned for 2022, to coincide with retirement. As usual, life intersected with their “firm” plans in unexpected ways.
“We decided in 2020 to purchase our land to build our home in the Waterford community,” said Joan Phillips, a former teacher and principal. “We loved the community with its interlacing canals but actually didn’t see the land in person. … We saw it via drone video.”
They traveled to the Brunswick County town of Leland in spring 2021.
“I found our prospective neighbor, called her up and said, ‘I’m your new neighbor!’ When I had told her we were coming down, she said she would get everyone on the street together, and we’d have a cookout, where we could meet all the neighbors, which we did,” Joan Phillips said.
The Phillipses are part of a wave of recent retirees who chose Southeastern North Carolina as their next stopping point.
The state of North Carolina has been experiencing rapid growth for more than 50 years. In the Cape Fear region, for Brunswick and Pender counties in particular, the trend is even faster and shows few signs of slowing.
For new residents like the Phillipses, who moved into their new home in October 2022, it also meant getting connected to their new zip code.
Joan Phillips began kayaking several times a week within the community, while Jay Phillips found a fairly competitive age 50-and-over softball league, joined the golf club at nearby Magnolia Greens and began playing pickleball at the House of Pickleball. Both enjoyed hiking and took that up together, not only locally but in Western North Carolina.
Joan Phillips also progressed from being a member of the North Brunswick Newcomers Club to becoming the club’s activities director.
Some of the Newcomers Club’s events she initiated or helped put together include a tasting history tour in Carolina Beach, a Moores Creek National Battlefield tour, a chartered fishing trip and a single ladies’ brunch at downtown Wilmington restaurant Seabird.
For many people who’ve relocated or returned to northern Brunswick County, living close to Cape Fear
Community College in downtown Wilmington and UNCW is a huge advantage, creating a refreshing learning atmosphere.
This proximity also translates into easily accessible concerts, theatrical performances, lectures and cultural happenings, as well as courses available for mature students through programs like UNCW’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. The institute is a university-led and member-supported organization that provides lifelong learning opportunities for adults 50 and over. Courses typically fill up quickly.
The growth for both Brunswick County and the northern Brunswick town of Leland in part reflects attraction to four-season activities, coastal/recreational living (with four beaches within 30 minutes or less) and the city of Wilmington’s multifaceted cultural and dining appeal.
Recent Census population estimates reflect this pipeline.
Brunswick County grew by 4.7% between 2024 and 2025, making it the fastest-growing county in the state, according to new Census population estimates released this spring. Pender County’s population, meanwhile, grew by about 3%, the second-fastest in the state.
In comparison, New Hanover County, the region’s population center that houses more than three times the residents as Pender, continues to experience a less dramatic growth rate – seeing 1.1% growth between July 2024 and July 2025.
The Census update showed that Brunswick County, which added nearly 8,000 residents over the year, was the sixth-fastest growing county in the U.S.
Sheer speed and impressive population surges are, to an extent, strong indicators of economic development health, but they’re not the whole story. The windburn from such rapid growth can manifest in fairly predictable ways, such as infrastructure shortfalls, overcrowded schools and traffic congestion.
Those who track and analyze such growing pains, including regional economist and University of North Carolina Wilmington professor Mouhcine Guettabi, see how infrastructure and other concerns can emerge. Hyperfast growth will do that.
“I always joke,” Guettabi said, “that all of us would rather live in a community that’s growing than one that’s declining. However, as we all know or will eventually learn, that pain is felt most acutely through infrastructure issues.
Members of the North Brunswick Newcomers Club take a tour and participate in a tasting event at End of Days Distillery in Wilmington.
Things to Do
“And so, one of the challenges that the area has experienced with this incredibly rapid growth everyone has witnessed is that infrastructure needs have lagged behind.”
In Pender County, the inprogress Hampstead Bypass is one of the higher-profile, higher-priority infrastructure projects in motion that, when complete, promises to ease chronic traffic congestion.
Brett Weaver, a RE/MAX Essential real estate broker based in Hampstead, is cautiously optimistic about the ultimate benefits of the bypass but noted that the estimated completion date is 2030.
“It’s frustrating to see the –let’s call it moderate – pace of construction of this project,” she said. “I’d like to see incentives to speed up that pace. In the Northeast, for instance, I don’t believe the idea of taking six years for this to open would be acceptable. Then again, looking back at the amazing growth that’s occurred in Wilmington, these are issues that aren’t unsolvable; they just need to be addressed smartly.”
Like Brunswick County, Pender County is experiencing very strong growth. The warehouse whale that splashed into the county’s economic development pond was and is Amazon. The e-commerce leader has two facilities in the county; the larger, which broke ground in March
2025, is a 3.2 million-square-foot robotics-based fulfillment center, while the other is a last-mile delivery center. The larger facility is touted as the state’s largest and most technologically advanced robotics fulfillment center. Perhaps most importantly, the center is scheduled to employ over 1,000 people.
Regional economist Guettabi said, “More than anything, their (Amazon’s) choosing this locale is a signal. Meaning, when a company of this global force could locate anywhere in the country or anywhere in the world, and chooses your community, it signals that there are powerful community attributes that their research team has identified. And yes, that can impact future locational decisions.”
To maximize the sustainability of growth in Brunswick and Pender counties, long-term planning is essential, he said. One of the more significant vehicles in planning for a region’s growth, Guettabi said, are undertakings such as Pender County’s 2030 Strategic Plan. The plan identifies five major goals and executable strategies. Those strategies include supporting schools and education – the county currently has just three traditional high schools; enhancing public safety – the county is undergoing an emergency services merger; and
growth and infrastructure planning – key initiatives include creating an engineering department and drafting a water and sewer infrastructure master plan. They also include improving communication, such as standardizing information at board meetings, and internal development and retention, which would be steps to make salaries in government more competitive.
Former UNCW provost Denise Battles is another example of those contributing to the population increase in Brunswick. Battles returned to the Wilmington area in August with her husband, Mike, after a decade in the State University of New York system. They especially appreciated the opportunities and familiar stimulating vibe of living close to a college. She has become an enthusiastic participant in the Newcomers Club; her prior experience as a geologist brought an extra dose of interest in the club’s recent visit to the area’s National Weather Service station.
“Yup,” Battles said with a smile, “I’m one of those people who literally wanted to know what the site elevations were relative to hurricane risk. I didn’t want us to move into a house that was less than 22 feet above sea level — we're at about 15 feet, close enough. You can say we’re in a lower-risk locale, but then again, our brethren in Asheville credibly thought the same thing. So we’re aware of hurricanes and just in general concerned about general drainage issues.”
In their new community of Waterford in Leland, she said, there is a solid core of active older residents.
“We love the outdoors and the appeal of having a place with water everywhere,” Battles said.
“Setting aside spaces for recreation is essential for the quality of our lives. Combined with all that greater Wilmington has to offer – striking that balance of cultural, entertainment and educational – with the natural beauty we’re surrounded with … we’re in a unique position to do that here in Brunswick County.”
Members of the North Brunswick Newcomers Club (left to right) Bonnie Wolf, Robi Lorio, and Vinny Lorio participate in a tasting event at End of Days Distillery in Wilmington.
WIDESPREAD PANIC AT LIVE OAK BANK PAVILION AT RIVERFRONT PARK
Performance Venues
The region features entertainment venues large and small that house local productions as well as touring music acts and plays. Here are some of the places to check out performances.
Entertainment: The Airlie Summer Concert Series with live music outdoors runs from June to late August or early September Other attractions: Formal gardens, walking trails, views of Bradley Creek, 10 acres of freshwater lakes, azaleas, the 480-year-old Airlie Oak, N.C. Birding Trail location, Bottle Chapel, Butterfly House (May-Sept.), Art Exhibit (Jul.-Dec.), seasonal events such as Blooms & Brews, The Airlie Oyster Roast and Enchanted Airlie
Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park 10 Cowan St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 343-3614 | livenation.com/ venue/KovZ917A0DZ/live-oak-bank-
pavilion-events
Entertainment: National live performances, civic events, rentals 2026 lineup: Upcoming shows include Lauren Daigle (June), Lord Huron (June), Darius Rucker (June), Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band (July), Bob Dylan (July), James Taylor (September), Foreigner (September), The Doobie Brothers (October)
Thalian Hall Center for Performing Arts
PO Box 371, Wilmington, NC 28402 (910) 632-2241 | thalianhall.org
Entertainment: Main Attractions series, Opera House Theatre Company season, Thalian Association Community Theatre season, Big Dawg Productions season, film festivals, Cinematique and Techmoja Theatre and Dance Company season 2026 lineup: Upcoming shows
include The Outsiders (June), West Side Story (August), Live and Let Die: The Music of Paul McCartney (October), Donna Washington (October), Celtic Angels (November)
CFCC’s Wilson Center
703 N. Third St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 362-7999 wilsoncentertickets.com
Entertainment: National Broadway tours, national and international concerts, comedy and other performing arts events, including local renters
2026-27 lineup: Graham Nash (August), The Oak Ridge Boys (August), Brit Floyd (August), Pixies (September), Waitress (October), The Book of Mormon (October)
Cameron Art Museum
photo c/o Live Oak Bank Pavillion at Riverfront Park
3201 S. 17th St., Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 395-5999
cameronartmuseum.org
Entertainment: Port City Music Festival (June), Live! at CAM Café, The Collection Exhibit (August) Top exhibits/attractions: Rotating exhibitions in two wings of the museum, situated on 9.2 acres that include the PNC USCT Park featuring the Boundless sculpture, a large Whirligig, nature trails, pond and a Civil War historic site
Entertainment: Live Nation-booked concerts, civic events and rentals at an outdoor stage overlooking Greenfield Lake 2026 lineup: Upcoming shows include Wilco (July), Umphrey's McGee (July), Rhiannon Giddens (July), The Wallflowers (August), ZZ Top (September)
Hannah Block Historic USO/ Community Arts Center
120 S. Second St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 341-7860 wilmingtoncommunityarts.org
Entertainment: Performing and visual art shows and classes, World War II museum, Orange Street Pottery, film festivals and more; Thalian Association Community Theatre season, Voices in Community Choir, USO Show & Dance (November)
UNCW Kenan Auditorium 601 S. College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 962-2515 | uncw.edu/ seahawk-life/arts/presents
Entertainment: Kenan Auditorium Presents, UNCW Seahawk FAM; other performances
Entertainment: Special events include jazz concerts, history lectures, free community events, a Christmas open house and more; open daily for tours; also features rotating exhibits focused on fine art, history, historic preservation and design arts
Entertainment: A 1,500-seat performing arts facility at Brunswick County Community College 2026 lineup: Upcoming shows include Sea Notes Choral Society: Celebrate 1776-2026 (June), Frankie Valli Tribute (October), VAN The Band - Van Morrison Tribute (October)
GREENFIELD LAKE AMPHITHEATER
CFCC'S WILSON CENTER
photo c/o Wilson Center
photo c/o Greenfield Lake Amphitheater
Wheel-throwing class at Leland Cultural Arts Center
Continual Learning
Enrichment courses abound locally, from cultural lectures to art workshops, there’s a range of options to stay busy and make new connections while picking up a new skill.
Description: Airlie Gardens is a 67acre public garden owned by New Hanover County.
Classes: The garden offers regular guided bird walks and guided history tours as well as a regular Hops & Talks event with Airlie’s environmental educators talking about garden animals while patrons enjoy Mad Mole Brewing pints.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNCW 601 S. College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 962-3195 | uncw.edu/olli
Description: OLLI at the University of North Carolina Wilmington provides tailored noncredit educational programs, lectures and multi-session courses for adults seeking continuing enrichment.
Classes: Programs feature subjects such as the Intensive Poetry Workshop, global policy roundtables through Great Decisions, historical
surveys of American art and local ecological explorations such as Nature Poetry: From Pastoral to Ecopoetry.
Cameron Art Museum 3201 S. 17th St., Wilmington, NC 28412 (910) 395-5999 cameronartmuseum.org
Description: The Cameron Art Museum (CAM) provides high-quality cultural exhibitions and year-round educational opportunities for adults through its dedicated Pancoe Education Center.
Classes: Studios feature hands-on creative weekends, including Painting Shorebirds, Mixed Media Painting, Sculpting with Pinch Pots and Tickled Blue-Cyanotype Printing workshops. Generative creative writing sessions are also regularly offered directly inside the museum galleries.
Leland Cultural Arts Center 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland, NC 28451 (910) 383-0553 | townofleland.com
Description: Run by the town of
Leland, this northern Brunswick County complex features a gallery, a pottery studio, a large multi-purpose room and custom classrooms designed for fine arts and community integration.
Classes: Visual and functional art workshops for adults include stained glass construction using the classical copper foil method, decals on clay, wheel throwing, flower arranging and themed painting classes such as Painting like Georgia O’Keeffe.
Brunswick Community College (Southport Center)
701 N. Lord St., Southport, NC 28461 (910) 755-7300 | brunswickcc.edu
Description: While the main campus resides in Bolivia, BCC runs its continuing education arts and trades programs out of its historic Southport Center facility.
Classes: The adult enrichment roster features intensive technical art mediums, including beginning metal sculpture, segmented woodturning, advanced silver jewelry making, fiber shibori dyeing and multi-level pottery wheel and handbuilding courses.
file photo
Cape Fear Community College
411 N. Front St., Wilmington 100 Industrial Drive, Burgaw 621 N.C. Hwy. 210 (910) 362-7000 | cfcc.edu
Classes: Adults can enroll in community enrichment courses at CFCC’s campuses, including hobbyist welding, commercial craft brewing and photography courses. The main downtown campus offers marine captain licensing classes as well as wood boatbuilding. In the 10-week commercial craft brewing program, students explore the science and history of brewing while training directly under industry professionals
to master the full "grain to glass" process. Meanwhile, the historic wooden boatbuilding program utilizes hand tools, joinery, and full-scale lofting on the shop floor to teach traditional techniques. All community enrichment classes are affordable and require preregistration through the Union Station campus office.
New Hanover County Senior Resource Center
2222 S. College Road, Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 798-6400 | nhcgov.com
Description: Operated by New Hanover County, this resource center serves older adults with a lineup of lifelong learning, creative arts and wellness programs designed to promote an active lifestyle.
Classes: The center features dedicated studio space for continuous adult workshops including specialized watercolor painting, acrylics and knitting circles.
Wrightsville Beach Parks and Recreation
1 Bob Sawyer Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 (910) 256-7925
townofwrightsvillebeach.com
Description: Based out of the Wrightsville Beach Park complex, this municipal department provides year-round indoor and outdoor recreational coursework, fitness classes and specialized athletic programs.
Franklin Square Gallery
130 E. West Street, Southport, NC 28461 (910) 457-5450
franklinsquaregallery.com
Description: Housed in a historical 1904 schoolhouse building in downtown Southport, this gallery is operated by the Associated Artists of Southport.
Classes: The gallery hosts multi-day workshops led by visiting regional artists, focusing on mediums such as watercolor on canvas and plein air landscape painting. It also offers multi-week studio classes.
Classes: The center provides continuous group sessions including local heritage and history roundtables, beginner woodcarving, basic computing and digital safety and more.
photo c/o Cameron Art Museum
PAINTING CLASS AT CAMERON ART MUSEUM
FRESH FLAVORS
The Wilmington area’s culinary scene is a vibrant one. There’s the coastal menus expected of a beach city, but global flavors and fine dining are also part of the mix. Award-winning restaurants and bars dot the region and are ever evolving. Here are some of the latest additions to the food and drink scene, from Feast Wilmington’s Unwrapped newsletter (feastwilmington.com).
Medi Bowl from Nil's Mediterranean Cuisine
photo by Megan Deitz
EASTERN MIX
Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine
114 Market St.
Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine in downtown Wilmington was the third Nil’s location for chef Tan Uckan and his wife, Semra, who also operate Nil’s restaurants in Fuquay and Angier, North Carolina. The menu includes Mediterranean staples such as falafel and shakshuka, as well as tapas and kebabs. “We’re offering a little bit of an upscale, modern fusion of Mediterranean food with a lot of Turkish flavors,” chef Uckan said. He and his family are from Turkey and were “born next to the sea,” so Wilmington was a natural fit for them to take up residence and open a new Nil’s location.
Overall, Tan Uckan has a why not approach to it all.
“This part of North Carolina is growing up (in regards to) food, and why not?” he said. “This location came up, and I didn’t want to miss the opportunity.”
ITALIAN RIVIERA TO WILMINGTON
Fortuna Cucina Italiana 414 Arboretum Drive, Suite 130
Evoking the easy rhythm and glamour of the Italian Riviera, Fortuna Cucina Italiana recently opened its open doors with a vision that is equal parts elevated dining destination and neighborhood gathering place.
The concept is led by restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias along with chef and partner Chris Lewnes, and general manager Salvatore Catania, whose combined experience spans Michelinstarred kitchens, luxury hospitality projects and decades of restaurant development throughout the Southeast.
Bakatsias, originally from a small village in Greece, is the founder of the Giorgios Lifestyle and Hospitality Group, which operates nearly 20 concepts throughout the Triangle and Wilmington. For Lewnes, the road to Wilmington began in New York.
The menu balances Italian tradition with coastal Carolina influence, featuring dishes like local flounder
Francese, head-on shrimp with salsa verde and scampi butter, tuna from the Outer Banks, local snapper and clams and a grilled Branzino rarely found in the Wilmington market.
SIP AND STAY
Bean There Café 2148 Wrightsville Ave.
While there’s no shortage of coffee shops in Wilmington, Bean There Café was born out of a different idea: to create the kind of café Wilmington doesn’t already have. For chef and owner Chris Hollingsworth, that means not only a thoughtfully crafted coffee program, but one that is complemented by made-from-scratch food in a space designed to feel welcoming.
Hollingsworth said that while there are plenty of places to get great coffee, the food options at many coffee shops are limited to baked goods brought in from other locations rather than baked fresh on-site, and most do not offer made-to-order breakfast and lunch options.
One standout is the pistachio latte, made with pistachio milk and housemade pistachio syrup.
“Everything is technically house-made and baked fresh daily,” Hollingsworth said.
TAKING FLIGHT
Concorde Espresso Bar 8121 Market St.
The owners of downtown Wilmington’s Concorde Espresso Bar this year closed on a Porters Neck building that’s slated to become a second location for the popular coffee and cocktail bar.
Concorde Espresso Bar LLC purchased the property at 8121 Market St. for more than $1.8 million, according to a deed. According to state records, the entity is managed by Ace and Jamie Alfalla, the husband-and-wife team behind Alfalla Hospitality Group.
Jamie Alfalla said she was “excited to bring a more immersive Concorde jetthemed experience to the area – think elevated aviation vibes, the same great
coffee-to-cocktails transition (open daily starting early, reservations after 3 p.m.), and something we know Porters Neck locals will love.”
The first Concorde location launched in 2023 at 215 S. Front St. in Wilmington, opening after Alfalla Hospitality Group took over the Front Street Inn in 2021 and renovated the space, transforming it into a boutiquestyle hotel. The hospitality group also owns Sugo Italian Steakhouse at Hotel Ballast and the Graystone Inn, a historic bed-and-breakfast that was damaged in a fire in November.
CHEF POWERHOUSE
VOYCE Bistro 11 Market St.
Just beyond a storefront window, a wall is on fire – not literally, of course. It blazes with fiery reds, electric purples and wild yellows in a large-scale floral print inside 11 Market St., where patrons dine at the recently opened VOYCE Bistro.
“I wanted to run the mural the whole length of the wall, but my husband said we needed to break it up,” said Angela Rhodes, owner of VOYCE, along with her husband and two-time James Beard Award nominee chef Keith Rhodes.
At 1,500 square feet, with structural bones dating to 1901, the historical building beside the Alton Lennon Federal Building – once home to the deli Stuffedwich – has been whisked into modernity once again. The result is an intimate, inviting space a stone’s throw from the Riverwalk that, according to its website, “celebrates the art of casual, coastal cuisine infused with Caribbean flavors.”
Small plates such as oven-roasted Dirty South oysters, buttermilk-fried Ipswich clams and North Carolina seafood chowder join entrees and sandwiches, including pan-roasted fish of the day, jerk shrimp roll, a blue lump crab cake sandwich and a Wagyu cheeseburger.
“We took inspiration from the classic French bistro and remixed it with a touch of soul,” Angela Rhodes said. “The result is warm, inviting and reflective of the food and the people behind it.”
Wilmington Brewing Company co-owner John Savard pours a pint of local brew.
LOCAL BREWERIES
The area’s brewery scene has been bubbling up for years and has grown into popular neighborhood spots in Brunswick and Pender counties, beyond the original brewery hub in Wilmington.
Wilmington Brewing Company
824 S. Kerr Ave., Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 769-0293
wilmingtonbrewingcompany.com
Size of brewhouse (in barrels): 35.0
Sample of brews: Tropical Lightning IPA, Blair’s Breakfast Stout, Jalapeño Saison
Brewery amenities: Taproom, food trucks, family and pet friendly Event space description: 5,000-square-foot taproom with games, patio seating and lounge areas, weekly food trucks, run club, specials and more
Sample of brews: Galloping Gose, King Tide Koisch, Evacuation Plan Double IPA, Acerbic Ecstasy IPA, 910 Pale Ale, Hay Bale Cream Ale
Brewery amenities: Taproom, outside and inside seating, regular events, food trucks, homebrew shop and club: Broomtail Coffee Shop in the momings and Brewery Taproom in the afternoons
Event space description: Private room, two large TVs, food prep area, regular food trucks, coffee and brewery taproom available with bartenders and baristas
Brewery amenities: Taproom and outdoor beer garden under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge; live music, food trucks, special events, markets, tours, games family and dog friendly Event space description: Seating indoors for 120 and outdoors for 100
Sample of brews: Hey Zay Hazy IPA, Coastline Kölsch, Swingbridge Breakfast Stout, Barnacle Bill’s Brown Ale
Brewery amenities: Taproom and brewery, live music and food trucks, beer garden, outdoor games
Event space description: Roughly 1,600 square feet of taproom space
Front Street Brewery
9 N. Front St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 251-1935
FrontStreetBrewery.com
Size of brewhouse (in barrels): 10.0
Sample of brews: Port City IPA, Tiny Tim's Christmas Ale, Dram Tree Scottish Ale, Original Pilsner, Riptide Raspberry Wheat Ale Brewery amenities: Brewpub; restaurant with outdoor seating; Event space includes in house catering and taproom
Event space description: 3,000 square feet, available for parties up to 100 people
Burgaw Brewing
103 S. Wright St., Burgaw, NC 28425 (910) 530-0077 burgawbrewing.com
Size of brewhouse (in barrels): 10.0
Sample of brews: A lager-focused brewery with other styles that rotate through; flagship is the 103 Lager, a German Helles
Brewery amenities: Full-service restaurant with outdoor Biergarten and Event space two doors down Event space description: The Annex at Burgaw Brewing is a 40-50 person event space two doors down from the brewery
Makai Brewing Company
5850 Ocean Hwy W., Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469 (910) 579-2739 | makaibrewing.com
Size of brewhouse (in barrels): 3.5
Sample of brews: Carolina Tropical IPA, Mango Reef Blonde Ale, Coral Bay Kolsch, Kamanawanalel’ya Juicy IPA, Fire Knife Double IPA
Sample of brews: Lil Fish West Coast IPA, Ocean Crest American IPA, Hazy D NEIPA, Mas Elote Mexican style Lager, Intracoastal Blonde, Kooky Coconut Porter
Brewery amenities: Beer garden, tap room and event venue
Event space description: Variety of indoor and outdoor event venues can host up to 200
Savard Beer & Board
121 S. Front St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 399-4300
savardbeerandboard.com
Size of brewhouse (in barrels): 10.0
Sample of brews: Pub ales and Lagers, including StrataSphere Surfer Session IPA and Bikini Line Blonde Ale
Brewery amenities: Live surfboard
shaping and glassing on site; Brewery right Inside the taproom; Private event room and an Airbnb upstairs
Event space description: The “offshore” room is available to reserve and rent
Good Hops Brewing
811 Harper Ave., Carolina Beach, NC 28428 (910) 512-6697
goodhopsbrewing.com
Size of brewhouse (in barrels): 7.0
Sample of brews: Hurricane Haze, Pirates I.V. Koisch, Boardwalk Brown, El Dorado Drift, Productive Porter, Seltzers and more 15 taps of rotating beers
Sample of brews: Rehder's Red, Saison, Belgian Blond, Flytrap IPA, West Coast IPA, rotating seasonals and special releases
Brewery amenities: Taproom, outdoor beer garden, to-go beer, live music, food trucks, local art, dog friendly
Event space description: Space can be reserved for gatherings and events, but brewery does not close to the public; contact for private group tours and tastings
Ironclad Brewery
115 N. Second St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 769-0290
Brewery amenities: Operates as brewery and event venue, taproom, wedding venue.
Event space description: 9,600 square feet of event space and available for a variety of events
Food Festivals Lineup
The area plays host to food and drink festivals throughout the year, from regional dishes to international fare. Here are some of them to explore.
N.C. Blueberry Festival
This annual celebration in downtown Burgaw highlights the significance of blueberries in Southeastern North Carolina. It includes artisan vendors, fresh local blueberries, children’s activities, food trucks, beer and wine, live music, a blueberry recipe contest, and more.
When: June 20, 2026
Where: 106 E. Wilmington St., Burgaw Info: ncblueberryfestival.com
Lighthouse Beer and Wine Festival
Beer and wine samples flow at this annual event benefitting the Carousel Child Advocacy Center. Live music and food round out the day.
This year marks the 45th anniversary of the Brunswick County festival of all things oysters. Visitors can experience a variety of foods, crafts, contests, children’s activities and musical performances as well as the event’s signature oyster shucking contest.
When: Oct. 17-18, 2026
Where: Town Center Park, 11 E. 2nd
St., Ocean Isle Beach
Info: ncoysterfestival.com
St. Stanislaus Polish Festival
This annual fall festival offers authentic Polish food such as pierogi, stuffed cabbage and kielbasa, along with traditional music, dancing and Polish wares for sale.
When: November 2026
Where: St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 4849 Castle Hayne Road
Info: ststanspolishfestival.org
Taste of Wrightsville Beach
The festival showcases Wrightsville Beach’s diverse fare with over 40 local cuisine, beer, wine and spirit tasting booths. Celebrity judges rate their favorite dishes, and participants choose the People’s Choice Awards.
This festival celebrates Latin American flavors, featuring food vendors, traditional dances and free lessons.
When: Nov. 14-15, 2026
Where: Ogden Park, 615 Ogden Park Drive
Info: facebook.com/FestivalLatinoILM
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
A day-long event of more than 60 beers, over 40 bourbons and barbecue for tastings, with games and live music to round out the festivities.
When: March 2027
Where: Live Oak Bank Pavilion, 10 Cowan St.
Info: wilmington.beerandbourbon. com
Feast Wilmington
A weekend of showcasing the area’s culinary and beverage scene. It features tastings from top local restaurants, craft breweries and live music.
When: March 20-21, 2027
Where: Live Oak Bank Pavilion, 10 Cowan St.
Info: feastwilmington.com
Wilmington Greek Festival
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church hosts an annual food and cultural festival in May. The weekend-long festival includes food, traditional music and dancing, church tours, a marketplace and cooking demonstrations.
When: May 2027
Where: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 608 S. College Rd. Info: facebook.com/ StNicholasWilmington
