A Coastal Masterpiece — More Than a Neighborhood, It’s a Lifestyle

Imagine living where championship golf, expansive walking trails, waterfront access, and small-town Southern charm blend seamlessly with modern community comforts. That’s St. James Plantation — one of the most highly sought-after residential communities in Brunswick County and coastal North Carolina. Nestled just outside historic Southport, this gated community offers a blend of resort-style amenities, active social opportunities, and natural beauty that appeals to buyers from near and far.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, boating lover, outdoor explorer, or someone seeking a welcoming coastal lifestyle, understanding how St. James Plantation’s neighborhoods differ — and what draws buyers to this community — is the first step toward finding your ideal home here.

1. What Makes St. James Plantation Special

At its core, St. James Plantation is a master-planned, amenity-rich, coastal community designed to bring people together through shared experiences and active living. The Plantation combines:

  • Championship golf with 81 holes across four courses — a massive draw for golf lovers.

  • A full-service marina on the Intracoastal Waterway.

  • Private beach club access on Oak Island just minutes from the community.

  • Multiple clubs and social organizations supporting thousands of active residents.

As of the most recent data, the community has thousands of homes in place with plans for up to approximately 5,000 total residences when fully built out, offering new builds and resales alike.

2. Neighborhoods and Community Areas

St. James Plantation includes several distinct residential areas — each with its own feel and appeal. Below are some of the key zones popular among buyers today.

The Reserve

One of the most coveted sectors in the Plantation, known for:

  • Larger lots

  • Golf course frontage along The Reserve layout

  • Higher-end custom homes

This neighborhood attracts buyers who want scenic views, space, and access to top amenities.

Founders Club Area

As an established part of the Plantation, this neighborhood features:

  • Mature landscaping

  • Classic home styles

  • Centralized location near major amenities

Founders Club is often appreciated for its community history and character.

Players Club & Regency Lakes

Located near the Players Club golf course, this area provides:

  • Golf and recreational access

  • Community pool and fitness options

  • Walking trails and outdoor spaces

This section of the Plantation balances active living with neighborhood convenience.

SeaSide & Newer Areas

Modern neighborhoods like SeaSide appeal to buyers seeking:

  • Low-maintenance living

  • Contemporary home styles

  • Proximity to pools and recreation complexes

These newer sections often incorporate amenities right in the neighborhood fabric.

Marina District

For those drawn to the water, the Marina District offers:

  • Close access to the St. James marina

  • Waterfront or near-water homes

  • Dining and waterfront living experiences

This is a favorite for boat owners or buyers who prioritize water access.

3. Lifestyle & Community Amenities

Championship Golf

St. James Plantation’s golf reputation is well earned. The community offers four distinct courses totaling 81 holes designed for a variety of skill levels, making it one of the region’s premier golf destinations.

Marina on the Intracoastal

The marina brings a true coastal lifestyle home — from fishing to boating and waterfront events.

Private Beach Club

St. James By The Sea on Oak Island delivers exclusive beach access, picnic areas, and ocean views — a rare private beach offering for community members.

Clubs, Trails & Activities

Residents of all ages find ways to connect:

  • Tennis and pickleball courts

  • Pools and fitness centers

  • Walking and biking trails

  • Community clubs for social, hobby, or volunteer pursuits

This variety ensures there’s something for everyone — from active retirees to growing families.

4. Real Estate Market & Home Value Trends

Homes in St. James Plantation remain highly desirable and reflective of coastal living demand.

Current Market Snapshot

  • The median listing price is around $620,000–$660,000, depending on the source.

  • Market trends show prices slightly down year-over-year, with median sale prices near $600,000, indicating a balanced market with opportunity for buyers.

  • Homes in this community tend to sell in roughly 70–80 days on market, showing continued interest.

Homes here can range from townhomes and cottages around the mid-$400s to single-family homes in the mid-$600s and higher, with premium homes exceeding $1M depending on location, upgrades, and waterfront access.

Market Dynamics

Price adjustments are normal and appear in a small percentage of listings — not a sign of distress, but rather market balance and opportunity for buyers.

5. Who Lives in St. James Plantation?

St. James Plantation draws a mix of residents — from retirees seeking active, amenity-rich living to younger families and remote professionals attracted by the coastal lifestyle. The broader St. James area (which overlaps with the Plantation community) has a median age around the mid-60s and a median household income above local averages, suggesting a financially stable and engaged population.

Conclusion: A Community Built for Life — Not Just a Home

St. James Plantation isn’t simply a collection of houses. It’s a lifestyle community where recreation, scenery, social engagement, and amenities come together to define daily living. Whether you’re prioritizing golf, water access, active recreation, or a welcoming social environment, there’s a neighborhood and lifestyle here to match your goals.

With a real estate market that stays active and varied, St. James continues to attract buyers who want more than a place to live — they want a place to thrive.

Work with Discover NC Homes — Your Local Real Estate Experts

If you’re considering a move to St. James Plantation — or want personalized insight into where you’ll fit best in this vibrant community — our team is ready to help. At Discover NC Homes, we specialize in Brunswick County, St. James Plantation, and Southport real estate, guiding buyers and sellers with expertise, integrity, and local knowledge.

📞 Call us at (910) 363-4387
🌐 Visit www.DiscoverNCHomes.com
We’d be honored to help you find the perfect home in St. James Plantation.

About Nolan Formalarie

Nolan Formalarie has been in the North Carolina Real Estate Industry for over 8 years and enjoys every minute of it. He is involved in every aspect of the industry including selling and purchasing residential property, home watch services, property management, association management and construction.