Gated golf and marina community near Southport, NC

St. James Plantation

St. James Plantation is a large gated community near Southport. It has four 18 hole golf courses, a deep water marina on the Intracoastal Waterway, and a beach club on Oak Island.

About 3,000 of a planned 5,500 homes are built, so open lots are still easy to find.

Build facts

Lot types
Golf, lake, marsh, and interior lots
Flood and wind
Many lots here sit outside the high risk flood zone, but we still check the FEMA flood map, the required floor height, and the wind design rating for your lot before design begins.
Permits
Town of St. James
HOA and design review
Master POA about $790 a year, plus fees for each section.
Get a free lot review

Longshore homes nearby

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Can you build a custom home here?

Yes. Lots are still for sale in St. James, and many cost less than $100,000. You can use the builder you choose.

Before you buy, ask for a free lot review. We will check the lot, the design rules, and any builder terms in the sale.

Common questions

Is St. James gated?

Yes. It has a 24 hour gate.

How much is the HOA fee?

The master POA fee is about $790 a year. Each section can add its own fee.

Is there golf?

Yes. There are four 18 hole courses: The Reserve Club, The Founders Club, The Members Club, and The Players Club.

Is there a marina?

Yes. St. James Marina is a deep water marina on the Intracoastal Waterway with wet and dry slips.

Is there a beach?

Yes. The St. James Beach Club is on Oak Island, about 2.5 miles from the gate.

What schools serve St. James?

Homes here are in Brunswick County Schools. Check the district address lookup for a specific lot.

Can I pick my own builder in St. James?

Yes. The 2025 POA design guidelines let owners use the builder of their choice, as long as the builder holds a North Carolina residential builder license and follows the design rules. If you buy a lot from the developer, ask whether the sale ties you to a builder.

How do I get plans approved?

The Architectural Control Committee reviews your plans first. Then the Town of St. James issues a zoning permit, and Brunswick County issues the building permit. The home must be finished within 12 months of approval. Longshore handles these steps for you.

Ready to Start Your Custom Home?

We protect your time, guide every decision, and keep you informed from the first call to move-in day. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Parade of Homes winner. Member of NAHB and the Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association.