Hilton Bluffs Plans Denied: What’s Happening With the 1,800-Home Castle Hayne Development?

One of the largest proposed residential developments in the Wilmington area hit a significant roadblock this week.

New Hanover County Manager Chris Coudriet has denied the latest site plans for Hilton Bluffs, a proposed 1,800-home residential development along Castle Hayne Road.

The decision doesn't necessarily mean Hilton Bluffs is going away. Instead, it highlights one of the biggest issues facing the Wilmington area as Southeastern North Carolina continues to grow: How do we add housing while making sure roads, emergency access and infrastructure can support it?

What Is Hilton Bluffs?

Hilton Bluffs is a large residential development proposed for the Castle Hayne area of New Hanover County.

County planning records identify the project as an approximately 1,800-unit residential subdivision in the 3900 block of Castle Hayne Road.

A development of that size could have a meaningful impact on housing inventory in northern New Hanover County and the Castle Hayne area.

But the project's latest plans created concerns over access.

Why Were the Hilton Bluffs Plans Denied?

The issue centers around the development having a single point of ingress and egress.

New Hanover County Manager Chris Coudriet intervened in the review process and denied the updated plans, citing public-safety concerns associated with having one access point serving a community of approximately 1,800 homes.

The concerns include potential traffic congestion as well as the ability of fire, EMS and other emergency services to quickly access the neighborhood.

For anyone who already lives in the Wilmington area, the broader issue probably sounds familiar.

Residential growth has expanded well beyond Wilmington's traditional core, particularly along corridors leading toward Castle Hayne, Hampstead, Leland and Brunswick County. With that growth comes increased pressure on roads and public infrastructure.

Does This Mean Hilton Bluffs Is Canceled?

No.

The denial of the current site plans does not prevent the developer from submitting revised plans that provide additional access.

That distinction is important.

Hilton Bluffs has not simply disappeared from the list of potential Wilmington-area developments. Instead, the project's design and infrastructure will need additional work before the latest proposal can move forward.

For prospective homebuyers and current Castle Hayne residents, this is a development worth continuing to watch.

Castle Hayne Is Becoming an Important Part of Wilmington's Growth Story

For years, much of the Wilmington area's residential expansion has been associated with places such as Hampstead, Leland and northern Brunswick County.

Castle Hayne and northern New Hanover County are increasingly part of that conversation.

New Hanover County currently lists several residential projects under review throughout the county, including projects along Blue Clay Road, Sidbury Road and Castle Hayne Road.

That's significant because available land becomes increasingly difficult to find as Wilmington continues to develop.

Future housing growth will increasingly depend on what happens outside the city's established neighborhoods—and on whether transportation, utilities and emergency infrastructure can keep pace.

What Could Hilton Bluffs Mean for Wilmington Real Estate?

If a revised Hilton Bluffs plan eventually moves forward, adding as many as 1,800 residences would create a substantial new source of housing inventory in northern New Hanover County.

But this week's decision is also a reminder that proposed doesn't mean guaranteed.

Large developments can change significantly between their initial proposal and the homes buyers eventually see for sale. Unit counts can change. Road connections can change. Builders can change. Timelines can move.

That's why we follow development activity throughout New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick counties—not simply communities that already have homes listed for sale.

For someone considering buying a home in the Wilmington area, understanding what's coming next can be almost as important as understanding what's currently on the market.

Looking for a Home in Wilmington or Southeastern North Carolina?

The Wilmington real estate market continues to evolve, with new residential communities proposed and under construction throughout Wilmington, Castle Hayne, Hampstead, Leland, Surf City, New Hanover County, Pender County and Brunswick County.

At Coastal Carolina Properties, we follow new developments and local real estate activity throughout the Cape Fear region so our clients can make informed decisions about where they want to live.

Whether you're looking for an established Wilmington neighborhood, new construction, a coastal property or a home in one of the region's growing communities, we're here to help.

Thinking about buying or selling in the Wilmington area? Contact Coastal Carolina Properties to start the conversation.

If you're thinking about buying a home near the beach in southeastern North Carolina, Surf City and the Topsail Island area will almost certainly end up on the same list as Carolina Beach.

On paper, they have plenty in common. Both offer Atlantic Ocean beaches, boating, fishing, waterfront homes, vacation properties and a lifestyle built around the water.

Spend a little time in each, however, and they feel very different.

The numbers now show something else: they're growing differently, too.

Surf City is in the middle of a significant period of residential and commercial expansion, particularly on the mainland. Carolina Beach is a more established and geographically constrained beach town where redevelopment, public spaces and preservation are playing a larger role in its future.

For homebuyers trying to decide between them, understanding those differences can be just as important as comparing the homes themselves.

Surf City Is Growing Fast

One number immediately stands out.

According to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, Surf City's population reached approximately 5,142 residents in 2025, representing growth of roughly 32.9% from its 2020 population base.

Go back further and the transformation becomes even clearer. Surf City reported just 1,853 residents in 2010.

That doesn't mean Topsail Island itself is suddenly becoming a large city. Much of the area's growth is occurring on the mainland side of Surf City and throughout the surrounding coastal corridor.

Drive NC 50, NC 210 or nearby sections of US 17 and you can see the change.

New neighborhoods, townhomes, apartments, restaurants, medical services and commercial projects are following the population growth.

Recent projects moving through construction, approval or planning have included Waterside Townhomes, Duneridge Townhomes, Evolve Apartments, Applewood Trace, Colonial Heights and additional commercial development.

One major mixed-use project approved along Highway 210 calls for approximately 87,600 square feet of commercial space, including potential retail, medical, office and other commercial uses.

Another planned mixed-use development along NC 50 has included plans for roughly 65,000 square feet of retail space, 37,000 square feet of office space, 108 apartments and 67 townhomes.

This is an important shift for Surf City.

For years, the area was primarily thought of as a beach destination surrounded by smaller mainland communities.

Increasingly, Surf City is developing the restaurants, healthcare, retail, housing and everyday services needed to support a much larger year-round population.

For buyers interested in the area, explore our Surf City homes for sale and Topsail Island real estate to see how housing options differ between the island and mainland.

Carolina Beach Is Growing Differently

Carolina Beach tells a very different story.

The Census Bureau estimates Carolina Beach had approximately 6,870 residents in 2025, an increase of about 4.5% from its 2020 population base.

That's considerably slower than Surf City.

But there's an important reason why.

Carolina Beach has only about 2.45 square miles of land. It's already a relatively dense and established beach community, leaving considerably less room for large-scale outward expansion.

That means the next chapter for Carolina Beach isn't simply about building farther out.

It's increasingly about what happens to the property that's already there.

One of the biggest examples is the Carolina Beach Boardwalk District.

In 2026, the town approved an amended agreement to purchase nine properties within the central Boardwalk District for approximately $12 million, giving the community an opportunity to influence the future of one of the most recognizable sections of town.

Carolina Beach is also planning for the future of Freeman Park after more than 300 acres of conservation land were preserved.

Those projects highlight an important difference between these two markets.

Surf City is managing rapid expansion. Carolina Beach is managing the evolution of an established beach town.

What It's Like to Live Around Surf City and Topsail Island

One reason comparing these markets can be misleading is that "Surf City" often means much more than the municipal boundaries.

The broader lifestyle can include Surf City, Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, Hampstead and Holly Ridge, along with mainland communities surrounding Topsail Island.

That creates a surprisingly wide range of housing choices.

You can own an oceanfront home on Topsail Island.

You can live along the Intracoastal Waterway.

You can choose an established beach cottage.

Or you can buy a newer home on the mainland and drive across the Surf City bridge when you want to be on the island.

That flexibility is one of the area's biggest advantages.

The Topsail lifestyle also tends to feel a little more spread out.

Boating, surfing, paddleboarding, fishing and days on the beach are central to the area, but you don't necessarily have a traditional downtown outside your front door.

For some buyers, that's exactly the appeal.

There's room to breathe while still having the beach nearby.

And as mainland Surf City continues developing, residents are gaining more restaurants, shopping, healthcare and services without necessarily giving up that more relaxed coastal atmosphere.

What It's Like to Live in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach feels much more concentrated.

The Boardwalk, beach accesses, restaurants, bars, coffee shops and residential neighborhoods all exist within a relatively compact area.

That changes everyday life.

If your ideal Saturday involves biking to breakfast, walking onto the beach, grabbing lunch near the Boardwalk and heading back out for dinner without spending much time in the car, Carolina Beach has a major advantage.

Its proximity to Wilmington is another important distinction.

Carolina Beach residents have relatively convenient access to Wilmington's employment centers, medical facilities, shopping, restaurants and entertainment while still coming home to an island community.

There's also remarkable variety within a relatively small area.

Travel north and you'll reach Freeman Park and the inlet.

Head south through neighboring Kure Beach and you'll eventually reach Fort Fisher, the state recreation area and the ferry across the Cape Fear River.

For buyers who want a true beach-town atmosphere without feeling too disconnected from Wilmington, it's an appealing combination.

Explore Carolina Beach homes for sale to see what's currently available across the island.

Surf City vs. Carolina Beach: Development vs. Redevelopment

Perhaps the easiest way to understand these two real estate markets in 2026 is:

Surf City is expanding. Carolina Beach is maturing.

Surf City's mainland corridors still offer opportunities for significant residential and commercial development. Population growth is driving demand for housing, restaurants, healthcare, retail and other services.

Carolina Beach has a much tighter geographic footprint.

Its future will increasingly involve redevelopment, density, conservation, public access and decisions about how existing properties should be used.

Neither model is inherently better.

They simply create different lifestyles and different real estate opportunities.

Which Is Better: Surf City or Carolina Beach?

There's no universal winner.

The better question is: How do you actually want to live?

Surf City & Topsail may be a better fit if you want:

• More choices between island and mainland living
• Newer residential communities
• A quieter, more spread-out coastal environment
• Access to Topsail Island without necessarily living directly on the island
• Strong boating, fishing and Intracoastal Waterway access
• Exposure to a rapidly growing coastal community
• Convenient positioning between Wilmington and the Jacksonville/Camp Lejeune area

Carolina Beach may be a better fit if you want:

• A compact beach-town atmosphere
• Restaurants and entertainment close to home
• More opportunities to walk or bike around town
• An established Boardwalk and commercial district
• Easy access to Wilmington
• Nearby Kure Beach and Fort Fisher
• The character of a more established island community

What About Home Prices?

This is where buyers need to look deeper than an area's median sales price.

Within both markets, a few blocks can completely change what you're buying.

Oceanfront, second-row, canal-front, Intracoastal, sound-side and mainland properties can have dramatically different prices, insurance considerations, flood exposure, rental potential and maintenance costs.

A newer mainland home near Surf City shouldn't necessarily be compared directly with an oceanfront Topsail property.

The same applies to Carolina Beach.

A home several blocks from the ocean can represent a very different purchase from an oceanfront condo or property near the Boardwalk.

That's why we recommend starting with the lifestyle first and narrowing down the property type second.

Two Versions of Coastal North Carolina

Surf City and Carolina Beach aren't really competing to become the same place.

And that's what makes comparing them interesting.

Surf City and the greater Topsail area are experiencing the energy — and growing pains — of a coastal community expanding quickly. New residents are arriving, mainland development is accelerating and businesses are following them.

Carolina Beach already has many of the characteristics Surf City is beginning to develop: density, a recognizable commercial center, established entertainment and a compact beach-town environment.

Its challenge is different.

Carolina Beach has to decide how to evolve without losing the character that made people want to live there in the first place.

For buyers, the choice isn't simply about which beach is better.

It's about choosing between two different versions of coastal North Carolina living.

One offers the space and opportunity of a rapidly growing coastal corridor.

The other offers the convenience and personality of an established beach town.

The right choice depends on what you want life to look like after you get the keys.

Find Your Place on the Carolina Coast

Still deciding between Surf City, Topsail Island and Carolina Beach?

Start by exploring Surf City homes for sale, Topsail Island homes for sale, and Carolina Beach homes for sale. Comparing actual properties — and not just average prices — is often the fastest way to discover which area fits your lifestyle and budget.

The Coastal Carolina Properties Team helps buyers compare communities throughout southeastern North Carolina, from Topsail Island and Surf City to Wilmington, Carolina Beach and the surrounding coastal communities.

Search homes, explore our area guides and learn more about living along the Carolina coast at CoastalCarolinaProperties.com.

A Look at Growth in New Hanover, Pender & Brunswick Counties

If you've lived in the Wilmington area for any length of time, you've probably had the same reaction while driving around:

“When did that get there?”

A new neighborhood appears where there used to be trees. A familiar intersection suddenly has another shopping center. Roads are being widened. New restaurants arrive. Areas that once felt well outside Wilmington don't seem quite so far away anymore.

Coastal North Carolina is changing, and that growth isn't limited to Wilmington.

New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick Counties are increasingly interconnected. Where people live, work, shop, eat, and spend their weekends continues to spread farther beyond Wilmington's traditional boundaries.

Here's what we're watching across the region.

Wilmington Continues to Evolve

Wilmington isn't simply expanding outward. Parts of the city itself continue to change.

Downtown and the northern riverfront remain particularly interesting areas to watch as residential, entertainment, and commercial development continue to reshape the northern end of downtown.

The Brooklyn Arts District has also become a recognizable part of Wilmington's identity, helping extend activity beyond the traditional center of downtown.

Meanwhile, growth throughout the rest of New Hanover County continues to put pressure on one thing longtime residents know very well: traffic.

How Wilmington balances growth, infrastructure, housing, and the character that attracted people here in the first place will be one of the area's biggest stories over the next several years.

Hampstead Isn't the Small Community It Used to Be

Few places demonstrate the region's growth as clearly as Hampstead.

For years, Hampstead offered a quieter location between Wilmington and Jacksonville with easy access to Topsail Island.

That's still part of its appeal.

But continued residential development has brought more rooftops, businesses, services, and infrastructure needs with it.

The Hampstead Bypass is perhaps the most visible example of how much this part of Pender County has changed. The project has the potential to significantly alter traffic patterns and could influence where future commercial and residential development occurs.

Hampstead's next chapter may look considerably different from its past.

Surf City Continues Growing Beyond the Island

Surf City is another interesting example.

What many people still think of primarily as a beach town increasingly extends well beyond Topsail Island.

Mainland residential development, businesses along the US-17 corridor, and continued interest in the Topsail area have expanded what people consider the greater Surf City community.

The challenge will be maintaining the character that makes the area attractive while accommodating the people who increasingly want to call it home.

Brunswick County May Be the Biggest Story of All

Drive south or west from Wilmington and the scale of Brunswick County's growth becomes difficult to miss.

Leland has transformed dramatically, and residential development continues throughout northern Brunswick County.

But growth isn't stopping there.

Communities stretching toward Southport, Shallotte, Bolivia, and the county's coastal areas continue attracting new residents and development.

Brunswick County's combination of available land, proximity to Wilmington, coastal lifestyle, and established beach communities makes it one of the most interesting areas to watch in southeastern North Carolina.

More Homes Mean More Than Just More Homes

Residential growth gets much of the attention, but thousands of additional households change much more than the housing market.

They create demand for:

restaurants, grocery stores, medical offices, schools, entertainment, road improvements, parks, local businesses, and other services.

That's why some of the most interesting developments to follow aren't necessarily subdivisions.

A new road can change where businesses locate.

A major employer can affect housing demand.

A new commercial center can change how residents use an entire part of town.

And a development announced today may influence an area for decades.

That's What We're Going to Follow

We're bringing the Coastal Carolina Properties blog back, but we want it to be about more than houses for sale.

We live and work here, and we're interested in the same things our neighbors are:

What's being built? What's opening? What's changing? And what could our communities look like five or ten years from now?

We'll be following development, infrastructure, local businesses, neighborhoods, community projects, and other changes throughout New Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick Counties.

Some changes will be exciting. Others will undoubtedly create debate.

Either way, Coastal North Carolina isn't standing still.

And there's a lot worth paying attention to.

Who doesn’t dream of having an oceanfront property with breathtaking views and relaxing beach vibes?

What if you could achieve that dream at a fraction of the cost? Fractional property ownership is exponentially increasing in popularity, with the closest comparison being a timeshare. 

Fractional ownership allows you to own a share of the deed to the property itself instead of a timeshare where you would own the time you can use in the property.

Many utilize this to invest in a high-dollar property with their loved ones, basically allowing them year-long access to the home and a spot to go with your friends when you all just need a break! Let’s look at some of the other pros and cons fractional property ownership can offer:

Pros

• Affordability! Theoretically, if you took ten friends and invested in a million-dollar property, you could own a million-dollar beach house for 1/10th of the price!
• It has the potential to be an excellent investment! Financially, investing in the ownership of a beach house with friends and family known to be reliable can make for an enjoyable experience for everyone. Additionally, the memories to be made are limitless.
• Security. Unlike a timeshare, you can have peace of mind knowing exactly who and what is in your home at all times. You also go into the homeownership knowing that all responsibilities can be divided equally.

[Learn more about how you can save big money with fractional property ownership by clicking here!]

Cons

• Group Consensus. Taking care of a home comes with a lot of decisions to be made. From paint colors to patio furniture, making decisions as a group while maintaining effective communication can be challenging.
• Limitations. Be wary of the potential HOA restrictions or new taxes that may emerge with buying a fractionally owned property. While this isn’t always the case, sometimes these properties can be banned in specific areas, so stay informed.

To explore the possibility of a fractional ownership home, contact us or check us out online and let us know what your needs are!

There is no question that Wilmington, NC, is a highly desirable area.

With the Cape Fear River on one side, the Atlantic Ocean on the other, and a charming downtown in-between, it’s a place that most can only dream of living.

There are beautiful beaches for relaxing, inlets for cruising, mild winters, and many activities year-round. However, like other areas of the country, we deal with extreme weather. While northern states have snowstorms or blizzards, we have hurricanes and tropical storms. When buyers are looking to buy in Coastal North Carolina, there’s one question that’s top of their minds – how much does it flood in Wilmington?

Flooding can be unpredictable.

Living on the water is a position everyone dreams of being in at least once in their life. While there are many obvious perks to moving to a tranquil beach town like Wilmington, the flood zones are a viable cause for hesitation. 

No one wants to buy in a community that floods. However, we live on the coast where there is lots of water, and there are communities that we can just expect will flood when a large storm comes through.

Find a flood map.

Of course, not all communities are that transparent. As a solution, there are flood maps that will tell you the chances of a property flooding. Each property in our area is assigned a flood zone based on elevation and proximity to a water body. This zone can determine if lenders require flood insurance. However, flood zones don’t guarantee your home will or will not be damaged by flooding.

Most properties in the area, such as Wrightsville Beach, Figure Eight Island, and Topsail, are considered moderate to high flood zones. However, only 10% of New Hanover County is categorized as high-risk flood zones despite its waterfront properties. Oak Island and the majority of Kure Beach are elevated regions that are at low risk for flooding.

How to Find a Low Flood-Risk Property.

In addition to flood maps, there are other ways to find out about flooding. If flooding is a significant concern for you, here are some steps you can take to verify the odds are low for your new home flooding:

• Research: Because of local news outlets and social media, we’ve all heard of local communities that were hard hit by flooding in recent hurricanes. Be mindful of these communities and understand why those issues occurred. Take the steps necessary to avoid them, and keep in mind that the city and county have been making repairs and upgrades since the storm to alleviate these issues.
• Find out the home’s elevation: There are phone apps and websites that can give you this information. If it’s a high lot, the chances of flooding are lower. There is no guarantee your home won’t flood, but it’s one of the multiple factors to consider concerning the others.
• Chat with neighbors: This can be in person or part of a neighborhood Facebook community. Ask them how the area fared during past storms. Did homes flood or just streets? If the flooding was caused by malfunctioning equipment, has it been fixed?
•  

While Wilmington has experienced damage from flooding, the city has worked to combat rising sea levels. The famous Riverwalk is also built to combat incoming water from the river, and county guidelines also require structures to be constructed within a 100-year floodplain.

Hurricanes are a trade-off that we must endure to live on our beautiful coast. If you have any questions about purchasing a home in the Wilmington area, give us a call at 808-224-8816, or email at paul@coastalcarolinaproperties.com

There are ample options in North Carolina to buy the beach house of your dreams. 

Coastal Carolina Properties offers various homes located on some of the best beaches in our beautiful state. From vacation rentals to buying, we've got you covered - now check out what exactly makes our beaches so unique!

Wrightsville Beach

This active island is known for its spacious beaches, piers, and world-class watersports. Family-friendly with welcoming locals, Wrightsville Beach is ideal for surfing, wakeboarding, and all-around beach fun. 

Annual celebrations such as Flotilla and Fourth of July fireworks are a community favorite and attract tourists and locals alike. Another bonus to this island is free public parking from March 1st through October 31st and every day after 7:00 pm.

Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island is one of North Carolina's most unique destinations. Only accessible through its public ferry or private boat, there are no cars allowed on the Island. 

If you are looking for a serene destination with clear waters and beautiful shells to collect, the ferry departs on the hour for most of the day.

Carolina Beach

This beach is booming with attractions that will delight the whole family. The local cuisine is decorated with international awards, and there is an amusement park right in the center of it all. 

Carolina Beach has many activities to offer with a fantastic boardwalk, state park, and one of the best fishing piers in the state.

[Click here to find more things to do in the Wilmington area!]

Kure Beach

Kure Beach is adorned with several outdoor treasures. Guests are encouraged to partake in its bustling sailing and diving community as the season allows, while the Kure Beach Town Council programs community events year-round. 

The crown gem of it all is the Fort Fisher Aquarium that's affordable fun for the whole family!

Figure 8 Island

A-List celebrities such as Robert Downey Jr., Jennifer Aniston, and Al Gore have gone on record to attest to what this island has to offer. Figure Eight Island is a world of its own perfect for its isolated location and beautiful beaches. 

The breathtaking sunrises and sunsets are some of the most gorgeous in all of North Carolina.

Topsail Island

Topsail Island is a staple when it comes to North Carolina beaches. This town offers uncrowded beaches and the perfect waterway to take your boat out from its stunning ocean views to the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center.

Oak Island

Oak Island is one of the few North Carolina beaches that allows leashed dogs year-round. Its pristine waters are optimal for fishing and boating excursions. 

The iconic Oak Island Lighthouse is a fun activity to see from the inside and out, and its environmental trails will leave you speechless.

Any of these beaches are perfect locations for your next beach house! Please, feel free to email, text, or call me at your convenience if you have any questions - 808-224-8816.

A beach house purchase is an investment that can reap reward after reward. 

Buying a beach house can bring an excellent return on investment, a reliable income stream, and access to a delightful vacation spot.

A permanent vacation.

The best reward is, of course, is that a beach house would provide a reliable and beautiful vacation destination for you and your family. 

The lifelong memories that come with family vacations are priceless and irreplaceable. North Carolina beaches are family and dog-friendly travel destinations that make for the perfect getaway without the usual vacation stress. In addition, when you vacation to your beach house you will be saving a lot of money compared to typical travel costs. 

And if you aren’t quite ready to dive into a purchase, there are ample rental homes with optimal areas and beautiful designs available daily. 

Rental income. 

Additionally, buying a beach house has the potential to provide a steady income stream. Typically, vacation rentals generate a much higher income than traditional rental properties. 

Tourists flood North Carolina's coastal region every month, even in the off-season, because of what the cities have to offer. 

Significant attractions include:  

• Azalea Festival
• The Holiday Flotilla
• The Atlantic Ocean
• The Carolina Beach Boardwalk
• Masonboro Island  

These attractions and more bring in thousands of visitors looking for places to stay throughout the year.

Tax benefits. 

Owners of vacation rentals can write off business-related expenses such as mortgage interest, property management fees, marketing costs, insurance, property taxes, and repair costs. 

Consult your local real estate expert to find out what tax deductions apply to you.

Property appreciation. 

The value of real estate usually increases with inflation. This means that an investment into your beach house now will probably be worth much more later. 

If you mind your due diligence and preparation, buying a beach house for rental income can be a very lucrative venture. To ensure that you end finding the perfect beach house, feel free to email, text, or call me at your convenience if you have any questions.  

808-224-8816

paul@coastalcarolinaproperties.com

The beautiful North Carolina coastline is a vacation hot spot, not just for local families but also for those countrywide! 

From the diverse beaches, unique lighthouses, and rich history, it's easy to find an excellent coastal spot that's right for you. And, of course, bringing the fur babies along for all the fun makes the trip complete. 

Luckily there are a plethora of dog-friendly activities in Wilmington, NC, and its surrounding cities. Discover the NC beaches that stand out from the rest when it comes to your pup being able to join you in the surf and sand.  

In addition to the pet policies for each selected beach, pet-friendly lodging options and plenty of fun activities make the North Carolina coast the best of the best!

Wrightsville Beach

At Wrightsville Beach, all leashed dogs are welcome at any time during the off-season, which is October 1st - March 31st. However, throughout the rest of the year, dogs are not permitted on the beach. Some of the pet laws from the Town of Wrightsville Beach include:

• Your pet must always be on a leash while in the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
• You are required to clean up after your pet, have the means to always do so, and dispose of pet waste in available trash cans.
• No pets are allowed on the beach strand from April 1st through September 30th.
• Never leave your animal in a vehicle.
• The beach adjacent to the Mason's Inlet area is included in the Park Ranger's jurisdiction. All pet regulations apply to this area. 

Wrightsville has various restaurants and bars that offer you and your best friend a place to rest. Some bars, such as Jimmy's, allows you to bring your dog with you to the establishment. 

[Need more fun things for you and your pup to do in Wilmington, NC? Click here!]

 Carolina Beach

Another local dog-friendly community is Carolina Beach. Along with the numerous restaurants that offer outdoor seating for you and your pet, this beautiful beach allows leashed pets during the on-season, April 1st - September 30th, after 5:00 pm. 

Some more pet laws from the Town of Carolina Beach include:  

• All dogs are required to be always on a leash.
• April 1st through September 30th, dogs are allowed on the beach during restricted hours before 9:00 am and after 5:00 pm.
• October 1st through March 31st, dogs are allowed on the beach during all hours.
• You must always have a plastic or paper container on your person that can be used to clean up and contain dog waste until it can be disposed of in an appropriate container. This container must be produced and shown, upon request, to anyone authorized to enforce this ordinance.
• Dogs are not allowed on the historical wooden parts of the boardwalk at any time.
• Dogs are not allowed in the Boardwalk Business District at any time-this includes sidewalks, walkways, or public property east of Canal Dr. from the north side of Harper Ave. (Hampton Inn location) up to and including Cape Fear Blvd. (Gazebo area). See Town Ordinance Chapter 34, Article III, Section 34-64.

Oak Island

On the southern tip of North Carolina rests the famous pet-friendly 12-mile-long Oak Island Beach. Leashed pups are allowed year-round on Oak Island beaches and, if you want to have some leash-free time, unleashed doggies are allowed October 16th through March 15th from 6:00 am until 8:00 pm in certain designated areas marked by signs. 

Oak Island is considered a classic family vacation spot in North Carolina, so not only will your pup be happy, but the rest of the family will be too. 

Topsail 

Another island on the eastern seaboard of North Carolina is Topsail Beach. At this coastal hot spot, dogs must be on a leash (no longer than 20ft) when off their property limits from the period between May 15th through September 30th of each year. Additionally, all dogs must be on a leash from April 1st through September 30th of each year in the area designated as Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) Unit L07 by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service marked by the town. The person must always be prepared to remove any "deposits" left by the dog. These regulations apply to the entire town, including the beach. 

Topsail Island is a quaint town with a charming atmosphere full of unique restaurants and shops to suit anyone's style. The area has plenty of lodging options that allow pets and include ocean views, pools, hot tubs, outside showers, and patios.  

Kure Beach 

Located just 18 miles from Wilmington, you'll find the kind of small-town beach from your childhood. Home to the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic Coast, an oceanfront park, a state aquarium, and beautiful seaside surroundings, Kure Beach provides the perfect setting for you, your family, and your pup to explore and reconnect in this pure and natural playground.

Kure Beach allows pups on the beach from October 1st through March 31st. Leashes must be restrained to 15 ft, and dogs are not permitted on the beach during the town's season. 

Figure Eight Island 

Located just east of Wilmington, Figure Eight Island is a destination that has inspired curiosity for decades. The island is privately owned by its homeowners and a rumored haven for celebrities and any visitor who wants a luxurious and private escape.

The only way visitors can access Figure Eight Island is by renting or purchasing a vacation home or residence. While difficult to access, visitors who decide to rent or buy a home on the island will be treated to one of the quietest beach landscapes in the area. Figure Eight Island retains its reputation as one of the most pristine destinations in the coastal Cape Fear area. So, if you and Fido are looking for a serene escape, Figure Eight may be the place for you!  

Leashed dogs are allowed from May 15th through September 30th on Figure Eight Island beaches.

Bald Head Island 

Board the ferry for the 20-minute ride to Bald Head Island and leave your car behind, along with the stress of the mainland. This charming island will give you and your pup everything you want and more.

Bald Head Island is one of the few beaches that allow dogs to roam freely off-leash at any time of the year. 

With so much freedom for your dog, it's no wonder these North Carolina beaches are highly rated for animal lovers and pet parents. Whichever coastal area you decide upon, there is no doubt that you and your best friend will be loving life in coastal North Carolina. Best of all, there are many more pet-friendly beaches in North Carolina to explore in addition to these great selections.  

If you are ready to make any of these coastal towns your permanent residence, Coastal Carolina offers a selection of featured communities to begin your real estate journey. 

Wilmington, North Carolina, is definitely a place where anyone can find their niche - and, more importantly, their home.

With so much to offer and so many special interest communities to choose from, here are our top five favorites. 

Greenville Sound

A whopping five minutes from Wrightsville Beach, this community offers homes. Here you can find luxurious amenities such as a yacht club, private boat ramp, and assigned boat slips.

The actual homes are works of some notorious local architects with clear attention to detail and several built-in amenities that will come in handy for life on the water.

The Cape

Want to live within minutes of the beach? Maybe you’re looking for a waterfront property itself? The Cape community has an active HOA, a world-class public golf course, and positions its residents literally minutes from the Southport ferry, Fort Fisher beaches, and Pleasure Island.

Inlet Point Harbor

An ocean lover’s dream. This community is literally engineered to sustain secure, deep-water boat slips, channel, and turning basin all leading to the Intercoastal Waterway. The residents are quite diverse in age, but all share a common love for a carefree life on the water.

Rivers Edge

No surprise here! This quaint neighborhood is conveniently located on the edge of the Cape Fear River. The community has many things to do as it is placed in Monkey Junction and a short walking distance from Echo Farms Golf & Country Club.

Porter’s Neck Plantation

Just north of Wilmington, NC, Porter’s Neck Plantation is a premier gated community with a plethora of amenities. Golf Digest magazine named the Porter’s Neck Country Club golf course “#1 Coastal Course” in NC. Just a short drive to beautiful beaches and endless restaurants and shops, this division offers both seclusion and accessibility.

An Honorable Mention:

Landfall

This community offers elegantly designed homes, with an abundance of amenities, in a gated community directly on the Intercoastal Waterway. If you’re looking for privacy, this community has 29 miles of just that to offer you, along with a 24-hour community patrol and 3 guarded gates. With a private country club, 19^th century Temple Garden, and sports complex, it’s safe to say there is no lack of activities in this community.

Check out some of our Landfall and other great golf community listings here!

Still overwhelmed about finding your future home in the Wilmington community? Check out our other article to help you out and contact us today!

With a growing population of approximately 120,000 people, Wilmington is home to several housing developments that can make an excellent investment!

The market has expanded to the surrounding city areas, more than doubling the population and the opportunity. Median home value has increased over 5% in the past year valuing homes in the upper $200,000’s with the median listing being over $290,000 and a projected rise of 5-10% annually for the foreseeable future.

Wilmington, NC real estate forecast

Wilmington, NC market trends have shown that the number of investors outweighs what is actually available, with the sale-to-list ratio at a staggering 99.22%.

The median listing price per square foot is approximately $166, and, on average, those are projected to sell after 64 days actively on the market. While they fluctuate from time-to-time, these trends are expected to increase still in the upcoming year. Check out our featured listings here! 

Job prospects

However, what truly makes this city such a great potential investment is its continuous development outside of the real estate market. The increasing population has led the way to a growing job market that has opened up many opportunities for residents. The present UNC campus, community college, PPD, medical laboratory, and film industry solidifies Wilmington’s economy on the back of a diverse community.

With everything this place has to offer, housing here is priced very reasonably compared to the price tag of a three-bedroom by the beach in California. Others have even found success in mobile parks. More and more developers are buying out land in a mobile park meaning money in the owner’s pocket at a relatively low cost.

The rental market

The rental market isn’t going anywhere either. With an ever-present student population, the demand for rental properties a commutable distance from either school will be around for a while. The average single household salary is around $50,000, meaning that actual homeownership, with the projected growth rate in mind, is highly improbable for most.

A strong portion of the population is also working irregularly due to school, which will prevent most from buying a home and keep rental rates high. Additionally, legal matters make being a landlord easier in NC: sensible late fee limitations, no pet laws, allowance for a reasonable deposit or bond, no state notice of entry laws, and flexibility of lease termination due to non-payment or breach of the lease contract.

Entertainment options

On top of housing and job choices, there is no shortage of fun here in Wilmington. Wilmington is the 8th largest city in North Carolina, and with that comes a lot of fun developments and new experiences to try. Some of these experiences include: 

• Sunrise/Sunset Paddle Boarding
• Major surrounding beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Caroline Beach, Topsail Beach
• Airlie Gardens
• Mayfaire Town Plaza
• Historic Downtown
• Jungle Rapids
• Wilmington Sharks Baseball

Low Taxes

One of the most notable assets investing in an NC property is the low property and income taxes. The national average is about 1.1%, while Wilmington’s is 0.85%. North Carolina also came in twelfth on the list of states with the lowest income taxes. This means your investment will be subject to lower taxes for a change!

Still, need to know more? Email, text or call me at your convenience - 808-224-8816!