Old Yacht Basin
A scenic waterfront spot in Southport, perfect for enjoying stunning water views, live music, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning views & live music
Old Yacht Basin
Best Time
Stunning views & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic waterfront spot in Southport, perfect for enjoying stunning water views, live music, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
"The Old Yacht Basin is such a fun and scenic spot in Southport! The views over the water are absolutely stunning."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The water views are spectacular at sunset, making it the perfect time for a visit.
🎶 Check Live Music Schedule
Enjoy live bands for a vibrant atmosphere; often no cover charge.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 547 reviews
Type
Pub
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Waterfront Views
Overlooking the water
Breathtaking views of the water, especially magical during sunset. A perfect backdrop for relaxation and socializing.
Live Music Performances
Onsite stage/area
Enjoy lively tunes from local bands, adding a vibrant energy to your visit. Often with no cover charge.
Friendly 'Private Club' Atmosphere
Bar area
A welcoming spot that feels like your own private club, with friendly staff and a great community feel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Vibe
Sunset & Live Music Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Southport/Oak Island Foodies - whats your top restaurant/eatery???
My wife and I love good food, and it doesn't have to be fancy or modern (but it can be if its worth it!). We absolutely adore joints that pour their soul into their dishes OR have mastered something beyond what a normal restaurant can put together. Fellow foodies - where is…
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The water views are spectacular at sunset, making it the perfect time for a visit.
🎶 Check Live Music Schedule
Enjoy live bands for a vibrant atmosphere; often no cover charge.
<Unconfirmed> Shooting in Southport, 3 dead, 6 injured
Supposedly at American Fish Co, people went by in a boat and started shooting into the restaurant.
Three killed, eight injured in shooting at American Fish Company; Person of interest detained in Oak Island
“Nigel Max Edge” aka SEAN DEBEVOISE pulled up to the American Fish Company & Pub on a 23' single engine outboard boat with a spotted dog on board. He fired into a crowd of people on the dock of the waterfront restaurant, injuring 8 people and 3 fatalities, on the…
🍹 Great Drink Selection
Fantastic cocktails and a good variety of drinks available.
🤝 Welcoming Community Vibe
Feels like a friendly 'private club' with great service.
What are some places to take a lady on a date near Calabash?
I'm (28M) from the Raleigh area and have been visiting my current partner (29F) 2.5 hours away in the Calabash area. So far we've been to the aquarium, Ripley's believe it or not museum, a handful of beaches. Would anyone have any recommendations for some of their favorite…
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The water views are spectacular at sunset, making it the perfect time for a visit.
🎶 Check Live Music Schedule
Enjoy live bands for a vibrant atmosphere; often no cover charge.
🍹 Great Drink Selection
Fantastic cocktails and a good variety of drinks available.
🤝 Welcoming Community Vibe
Feels like a friendly 'private club' with great service.
🚶♀️ Walkable to Restaurants
Conveniently located near other dining options if you need a full meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Old Yacht Basin's stunning waterfront views, especially at sunset, and the lively atmosphere created by live music. The friendly, 'private club' vibe and great drink selection make it a beloved spot for socializing and entertaining guests. It's praised as a gem in Southport for its relaxing coastal charm.
"American Fish Co. is such a fun and scenic spot in Southport! The views over the water are absolutely stunning—especially at sunset—and the live music while we were there made the whole evening even better.
My daughter and her husband really enjoyed the drinks (they said the cocktails were fantastic!), and even though I’m not much of a drinker myself, I loved the atmosphere and the relaxing coastal vibe.
It’s a great place to bring visitors or just unwind after a long day. Definitely one of Southport’s gems!"
Robin Malley (Broker / Realtor)
"🛥️ Best casual place over the water to hang with friends and enjoy a drink. I call it “our private club”! 😉Everyone is super friendly and the team provides great service. We take all our out of town guests there!"
Dr. Susan L Tietje Zucker
"Great place -right on the water - for drinks and live music. We saw Feebs from Wilmington last night. Great 5 piece band definitely worth a listen. Perfect weather too. No cover charge either but you have to “join” for $1/year. If you’re in Southport- check out American Fish."
Roland Robustelli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Yacht Basin is easily accessible by car in Southport. It's a popular spot, so parking might be a consideration during peak times. It's also within walking distance of several other restaurants, making it a convenient stop.
Parking is available in the vicinity, though it can get busy, especially during popular hours like sunset or when live music is playing. Arriving a bit earlier can help secure a spot.
Yes, if you are in the Southport area, the Old Yacht Basin is within walking distance of many local establishments, making it a pleasant stroll.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically there are no admission tickets required to visit the Old Yacht Basin itself. It's a public waterfront area.
While live music is often featured, there's usually no cover charge. However, some patrons mention a nominal 'membership' fee of $1 per year to enjoy the venue.
The basin itself is generally accessible during daylight hours, but the associated bar and music venues will have specific operating hours, often extending into the evening, especially on weekends. It's best to check local listings for specific venue times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are enjoying the scenic water views, especially at sunset, listening to live music, and socializing with friends over drinks. It's a relaxed, casual environment.
While it's a great spot for adults to relax with drinks and enjoy the atmosphere, it's generally considered more of an adult-oriented venue due to the bar setting. Families might enjoy the views during the day.
Information on pet policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the specific venue or bar operating at the basin regarding their pet regulations before visiting with a dog.
There is plenty of seating available, often described as a 'bottle bar on the ocean,' suggesting outdoor or semi-outdoor seating options to enjoy the waterfront.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old Yacht Basin primarily functions as a bar with a focus on drinks and atmosphere. While some venues might offer light snacks, it's not typically a full-service restaurant. It's conveniently located near other restaurants for meals.
You can expect a variety of drinks, including fantastic cocktails. It's known as a great place to hang out and enjoy a drink with friends.
Yes, the Old Yacht Basin is situated within walking distance of four local restaurants, offering plenty of dining choices if you're looking for a full meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The most picturesque moments are during sunset, with the water and sky creating a beautiful canvas. The general waterfront scenery and any live music performances also make for great shots.
Sunset is highly recommended for its stunning light and colors. However, daytime offers clear views of the basin and boats.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit