Porters Neck, NC
County: New Hanover
History

Porters Neck is an unincorporated community located in New Hanover County, North Carolina. The history of Porters Neck dates back to the 1700s when this area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Cape Fear Indians.
During the colonial era, the area was settled by European colonizers, with the majority being English and Scottish immigrants. It is believed that the community was named after a local landowner named Alexander Porter, who owned a large tract of land in the area.
Porters Neck remained a small agricultural community for many years, with farming and fishing being the primary livelihoods of the residents. The economy was primarily based on subsistence farming, with crops like corn, wheat, and tobacco being grown.
As time went on, the area saw some development with the construction of several plantation homes and farms. By the early 1900s, Porters Neck had become well-known for its beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities, attracting wealthy individuals and families from nearby cities such as Wilmington.
The establishment of the Porters Neck Country Club in the 1980s brought significant growth to the area. This private golf club and residential community attracted retirees and affluent residents, leading to the construction of more residential developments, including luxury homes and gated communities. Today, Porters Neck is known for its upscale residential neighborhoods, golf courses, and proximity to the coast.
Despite the development and growth, efforts have been made to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the area. Porters Neck is known for its extensive marshes, maritime forests, and tidal creeks, which provide habitats for a variety of plant and animal species.
While Porters Neck remains unincorporated, it has become an increasingly popular place for people seeking a more suburban lifestyle while still being close to urban amenities. The community continues to evolve, attracting new residents and businesses while striving to maintain its rural charm and natural landscapes.
Attractions

Porters Neck Plantation and Country Club
A private golf course and country club offering scenic views and top-notch amenities.
Eagle Point Golf Club
A renowned golf club known for hosting the Wells Fargo Championship in 2017.
Figure 8 Island
Located nearby, this exclusive private island offers beautiful beaches and luxurious waterfront homes.
Wrightsville Beach
A popular beach destination known for its surfing and paddleboarding opportunities, as well as a vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Airlie Gardens
A historic public garden featuring stunning landscapes, walking trails, and various unique plants and flowers.
Battleship North Carolina
Located in nearby Wilmington, this Battleship Memorial Park offers tours of the USS North Carolina and exhibits on naval history.
Wilmington Historic District
Known for its picturesque riverfront and well-preserved historic buildings, this area offers shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Cape Fear Museum
Located in Wilmington, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Cape Fear region through exhibits and educational programs.
Tregembo Animal Park
A family-friendly attraction featuring a variety of exotic animals, petting zoo, and rides for children.
Thalian Hall
Located in downtown Wilmington, this historic theater offers performances ranging from Broadway shows to symphony concerts and live theater productions.
Note: Some of these attractions may be located in nearby areas but are easily accessible from Porters Neck.
Climate
Porters Neck, North Carolina, has a humid subtropical climate. The area experiences four distinct seasons – spring, summer, fall, and winter.
In the spring (March to May), Porters Neck starts to warm up with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s°F to the high 70s°F. It is a relatively pleasant time of the year, with occasional rainfall and blooming flowers.
Summer (June to August) brings hot and humid weather to Porters Neck. Average temperatures range from the upper 70s°F to the low 90s°F. High humidity can make it feel hotter than the actual temperatures. Thunderstorms are common during this season, often providing relief from the heat.
Fall (September to November) in Porters Neck is mild and generally considered the most pleasant season. Temperatures range from the 60s°F to the low 80s°F, and humidity decreases. The area experiences beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) in Porters Neck is cool but generally remains above freezing. Average temperatures range from the upper 30s°F to the upper 50s°F. Snow is rare, with occasional flurries or light dustings. Rainfall is still present but less frequent compared to other seasons.
Porters Neck receives an average annual rainfall of around 55 inches, which is slightly above the U.S. average. The wettest months are typically July and August, while the driest months are November and December.
Overall, Porters Neck's climate is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild and pleasant springs and falls, and cool winters with limited snow.
Neighborhoods
Porters Neck is a suburban neighborhood located in New Hanover County, North Carolina. It is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, golf courses, and close proximity to the city of Wilmington. While the area primarily consists of residential developments, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Porters Neck that offer different amenities and atmospheres.
Porters Neck Plantation
This is the largest community in Porters Neck and offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood features an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Fazio, along with a country club that offers dining, swimming, and tennis facilities. Porters Neck Plantation also boasts a private boat ramp providing access to the Intracoastal Waterway.
Bayshore Estates
Located within Porters Neck, Bayshore Estates is a waterfront community that borders the Intracoastal Waterway and Howe Creek. It offers a mix of waterfront homes, as well as properties with water views. Residents of Bayshore Estates enjoy a quiet and serene environment, perfect for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Edgewater
Edgewater is a newer neighborhood in Porters Neck, featuring custom-built homes with a modern aesthetic. The community is carefully planned and designed to maximize privacy and preserve the natural surroundings. Residents have access to scenic walking trails, ponds, and picnic areas.
Marsh Oaks
Situated just south of Porters Neck, Marsh Oaks is a landlocked neighborhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. Marsh Oaks amenities include a community pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, and playgrounds. The neighborhood is also known for its well-maintained landscaping and tree-lined streets.
Porters Neck Village
Located at the entrance of Porters Neck, this area offers a mix of commercial and residential properties. It features a variety of amenities such as restaurants, shops, and professional services. Porters Neck Village is a convenient hub for residents in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Overall, the neighborhoods of Porters Neck offer a mix of coastal living, golfing, and family-oriented communities. Each neighborhood has its own unique characteristics, but all share the natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere of the coastal region.