What could possibly be so great about a small town on the coast of North Carolina with only 3,000 residents? After visiting a couple of times it's still hard to pinpoint any one thing that makes it amazing, but here are the eleven best qualities of Southport, NC!

1.) The people live up to the "southern hospitality" stereotype

Walking down the street, people say hello and ask how your day is. They complement the clothes you are wearing. The genuine nature of Southport residents is so refreshing!

2.) The trees are gorgeous

Do I need to say more? Trees are generally beautiful, but the large oak trees that line the streets provide shade and make the town feel natural.

3.) Whatever you're craving, you can find it

From ice cream stands and hot dog shops to casual seafood restaurants and upscale bistros, Southport is full of good eats!

4.) The adventures never end

With kayaks and paddle boards to rent and endless streams, rivers, and marshland to explore; you will always have somewhere new to go.

5.) Even more just a ferry ride away

There are ferry rides to Bald Head Island and Fort Fisher allowing Southport to be connected to even more adventures including nature walks, hikes, and the North Carolina aquarium!

6.) Small, local shops can suck up hours of time

You can find ocean themed jewelry, beach themed souvenirs that aren't cheesy and holiday items (the Christmas store might be the happiest place on Earth).

7.) The salty air and breeze against your face are mesmerizing

The smell, the feel, and the taste are so distinctly beach and nothing is better than it except if you are jawing salt water taffy as you walk the beach!

8.) Swings and benches line the water

You could sit along the coast all day watching birds, dolphins, and boats as they ride the waves. This same view is, even more, relaxing on the private escape of the Southport Yoga Dock.

9.) The sunset

This breathtaking view is different every time you look, but every time is as captivating as the first.

10.) Holiday spirit

It doesn't matter if it is Christmas or Halloween, the whole town is decorated for the occasion and there are events planned across town. Southport is also home to the State of North Carolina Fourth of July celebration. The people, homes, and businesses all dress up for the occasion.

11.) Safe Haven

Southport is the location of the Nicolas Sparks novel Safe Haven and the movie was also shot in the tiny town. Every restaurant has a "Safe Haven Special" and the movie's signature poster can be found on every block. There are multiple film locations throughout town that are perfect for photo opportunities! Southport has also been the film location for The Last Song, Weekends with Bernie, Stephen King's Under the Dome, and dozens of other films!