by Robert Borges on August 21, 2025
Some of the best coastal retirement communities in North Carolina include Kingfish Bay in Calabash, Landfall in Wilmington, Waterford of the Carolinas in Leland, Ocean Ridge Plantation near Sunset Beach, and Winding River Plantation in Bolivia. These gated communities offer waterfront property, golf, boating, and resort-style amenities, making them ideal for retirees seeking an active coastal lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore each community in more detail and tell you why retiring on the North Carolina coast is the perfect choice for many.
Why Retire on the North Carolina Coast?
Stretching more than 300 miles, the North Carolina coast is one of the most desirable retirement destinations in the Southeast. Retirees are drawn to its blend of charming historic towns, bustling beach cities, barrier islands, and quiet fishing villages. Add in a mild climate, relatively affordable housing, and a wide variety of North Carolina coastal communities, and it’s easy to see why so many active adults are choosing the Tar Heel State for retirement.
For nearly 30 years, Private Communities Registry (PCR) has connected retirees with the best places to live, from coastal retirement communities in North Carolina to mountain retirement communities to South Carolina coastal retirement communities, and more. Whether you’re looking for golf, boating, walkable neighborhoods, or private beaches, the NC coast offers an incredible variety of lifestyle options.
Best Coastal Retirement Communities in North Carolina
Kingfish Bay – Calabash, NC
Kingfish Bay is a private, gated retreat set on more than 60 acres along the Calabash River. Just minutes from Sunset Beach and within easy reach of Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, the community offers both tranquility and convenience. Amenities include a waterfront park, fishing piers, kayak launch, and a private oceanfront clubhouse on Sunset Beach. The 5,000-square-foot community center features a pool, spa, fitness center, and cinema room. Homes range from low-maintenance cottages to expansive coastal residences with Caribbean-inspired architecture.
Landfall – Wilmington, NC
Located five minutes from Wrightsville Beach, Landfall is a 2,200-acre gated community along the Cape Fear coast. Known for its lush green spaces and world-class amenities, residents enjoy 45 holes of championship golf designed by Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye, two clubhouses, an Olympic-sized pool, tennis, fitness facilities, and an active social calendar. Landfall blends an upscale lifestyle with easy access to Wilmington’s historic downtown and waterfront dining.
Waterford of the Carolinas – Leland, NC
Just across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, Waterford of the Carolinas is a waterfront community where lakes, creeks, and canals weave through every neighborhood. With 17 miles of shoreline, residents enjoy canoeing, fishing, swimming, and tennis, all just minutes from the city. Homes range from custom builds to single-level patio homes designed for low-maintenance living, making this one of the most affordable retirement communities in North Carolina with water-focused amenities.
Ocean Ridge Plantation – Ocean Isle Beach, NC
Between Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC, Ocean Ridge Plantation is a private, gated coastal community near Sunset Beach. Known for its award-winning golf, the community is home to the five “Big Cats” courses, offering 90 holes of championship play. Beyond golf, residents enjoy miles of walking and biking trails, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and more. With over 300 acres of preserved maritime forests, Ocean Ridge balances natural beauty with resort-style amenities and an active social calendar.
Porter’s Neck Plantation – Wilmington, NC
Minutes from Wrightsville Beach, Porter’s Neck Plantation sits along the Intracoastal Waterway and is often called “Wilmington’s address for gracious living.” The private Tom Fazio-designed golf course has been ranked the #1 coastal golf course in North Carolina by Golf Digest. A stately clubhouse, recreation center, and diverse selection of homes make this one of the most established and respected North Carolina coastal communities.
Winding River Plantation – Bolivia, NC
Centrally located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, Winding River Plantation offers a premier waterfront lifestyle. Its highlight is the Carolina National Golf Club, a 27-hole Audubon-Certified Sanctuary Course designed by Fred Couples along the Lockwood Folly River. Amenities include a 9,000-square-foot clubhouse, River House & Marina, and a private beach club on Holden Beach, giving residents multiple ways to enjoy life on the water.
FAQs About Retiring in Coastal North Carolina
What are the benefits of retiring on the North Carolina coast?
Retirees enjoy access to beaches, boating, fishing, and golf, paired with mild winters and vibrant cultural scenes in towns like Wilmington, New Bern, and Beaufort. The cost of living is lower than many Northeast or West Coast beach towns, making North Carolina waterfront property especially attractive.
Who are coastal retirement communities in North Carolina best suited for?
These communities are ideal for active adults and retirees seeking year-round outdoor recreation, social clubs, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Options range from affordable patio homes to luxury waterfront estates.
What are active adult communities like on the NC coast?
Most offer low-maintenance living with amenities such as golf, marinas, walking trails, fitness centers, and private beach clubs. They’re designed for those 55+ or anyone seeking a vibrant, activity-rich retirement lifestyle.
How does North Carolina compare to other coastal retirement options?
North Carolina’s coast is less crowded and more affordable than many parts of Florida while still offering a warm climate. Those comparing should also look at best places to retire in Georgia or nearby South Carolina coastal retirement communities for additional options.
Find Your Perfect North Carolina Coastal Community
Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront escape, a golf course neighborhood, or a property along the Intracoastal Waterway, PCR helps you discover the ideal community for your lifestyle. Browse our directory of coastal retirement communities in North Carolina, compare amenities, explore home styles, and connect directly with community representatives to begin your retirement journey.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
