Local guide · Southport
Southport Waterfront Park & Riverwalk
Southport’s waterfront swings face the spot where the Cape Fear River meets the ocean. You can watch cargo ships, ferries and shrimp boats pass with Bald Head Island on the horizon.
Why families go
The swings and benches are what everyone remembers, along with the breeze off the water. Visitors watch the port traffic, fish from the short city pier and stay for sunset. It’s the natural centerpiece of a Southport day: ice cream from the shops, the Maritime Museum a few blocks away, and the free Fort Johnston–Southport Museum across the street.
Don’t miss
- The waterfront swingsFront-row seats for passing ships.
- The city fishing pierShort, free and easy with kids.
- Fort Johnston–Southport MuseumA free museum and visitor center across the street.
- Sunset on the riverA lovely end to a ferry day.
Photo: NC Maritime Museum at Southport
Before you go
- There are no restrooms in the park itself; the visitor center across the street has them during open hours.
- City parks are open dawn to dusk.
Plan your visit
- Where: E. Bay St. between S. Howe and S. Davis Sts., Southport, NC 28461
- From Topsail: About 1 hour 20 minutes from central Surf City by road, or take the ferry from Fort Fisher.
- Hours: Dawn to dusk.
- Admission: Free.
- Official site: City of Southport
- More nearby: more family fun in Southport
A short drive from the island. Browse our Topsail Island vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.
Based on official information from the attraction and on recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Hours, seasons and prices change, so confirm before you go.