Minutes From One of the South’s Best Cities
At Terrapin, one of the South’s most celebrated coastal destinations is practically in your backyard.
There are plenty of reasons to love living near Wilmington, North Carolina. Now there’s another one.
Southern Living has named Wilmington the No. 7 Best City in the South for 2026, placing it among some of the region’s most celebrated destinations. The reader-voted ranking highlighted Wilmington’s scenic riverfront, historic downtown, dining, nearby beaches, gardens and distinctive neighborhoods.
For residents of Terrapin, all of it is just minutes from home.
A Coastal City That Keeps Getting Better
This isn’t Wilmington’s first Southern Living recognition. The publication previously named Wilmington its South’s Best City on the Rise in 2024, and in its 2026 rankings noted that the coastal city has continued to get better year after year.
It’s easy to understand why.


Spend an afternoon strolling the Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River, explore the shops and restaurants of historic downtown, catch a concert along the riverfront or head toward the coast for a day at the beach. Wilmington offers the culture and energy of a city while maintaining the relaxed personality that makes coastal North Carolina such a desirable place to call home.
The Wilmington Riverwalk alone stretches approximately 1.75 miles along the Cape Fear River, connecting visitors with restaurants, shopping, museums, parks and waterfront views.
Close to Wilmington. Closer to the Lifestyle You Want.
At Terrapin, you don’t have to choose between being close to the action and having room to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.
Located in Leland, Terrapin is approximately 10 minutes from historic Downtown Wilmington, with area beaches, shopping, dining, healthcare, entertainment and Wilmington International Airport all within easy reach.
And when you’re ready to come home, Terrapin offers a different kind of coastal experience.


Walking and biking trails, parks, Lake Terrapin, a kayak launch, fishing dock, resort-style pools, fitness, pickleball and gathering spaces create opportunities to spend more time outside, connect with neighbors and enjoy the surroundings right within the community.
It’s the best of both worlds: the energy of Wilmington nearby and the easygoing lifestyle of Terrapin waiting at home.
Live Minutes From a City Everyone Is Talking About
People travel from across the country to experience Wilmington’s historic streets, waterfront restaurants, beaches and coastal character.
At Terrapin, it can simply be part of your everyday life.
Explore available homes and homesites and discover a new home community that puts you minutes from one of Southern Living’s Best Cities in the South for 2026.
