Helms Port

Helms Port is a thoughtfully planned, gated community spanning approximately 75 acres along the Intracoastal Waterway in Wilmington, North Carolina. With just over 150 homes and homesites, it offers a balance of privacy and connection, appealing to those who value both. The community’s coastal setting provides direct water access, making it a draw for boating enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys spending time near the water. A marina with boat slips, a well-appointed clubhouse overlooking the waterfront, and a resort-style pool are among the key features shaping daily life here. Whether you’re heading out for an early morning paddle, meeting neighbors at the clubhouse for an evening gathering, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, life at Helms Port feels naturally fulfilling.

About Helms Port

Helms Port combines a coastal lifestyle with thoughtful design, offering a sense of balance between modern convenience and relaxed living. The community is carefully laid out to make the most of its waterfront setting, with homes and green spaces designed to enhance both privacy and connection. Tree-lined streets, walking paths, and small parks weave through the neighborhood, creating plenty of opportunities for quiet strolls or casual interactions with neighbors.

The architectural style leans toward timeless, coastal-inspired designs, with homes that feel welcoming and functional, embracing natural materials and details that reflect the area’s maritime heritage. Outdoor living is a key focus, with porches, patios, and views that invite residents to spend more time outside.

Part of what makes Helms Port stand out is its preserved natural elements. Gentle coastal breezes combine with open skies, offering a peaceful backdrop whether you’re enjoying a coffee on your porch or taking an evening walk. The pace here is calm but active, driven by an appreciation for the little daily moments that reflect coastal living at its best.

Helms Port Amenities

Gated Community

Helms Port is a secure, gated neighborhood, offering residents both peace of mind and a heightened sense of privacy. The controlled access ensures a more relaxed and safe environment, whether you’re at home or away. This setup also fosters a close-knit atmosphere among neighbors while maintaining a quiet and peaceful setting.

Boating and Marina Access

For those who enjoy life on the water, the private marina is one of Helms Port’s defining features. With boat slips available exclusively for residents, it’s easy to head out for a morning of fishing, an afternoon cruise, or a sunset sail. The marina’s location on the Intracoastal Waterway also makes exploring nearby coastal destinations both convenient and enjoyable.

Clubhouse and Pool

The community clubhouse, with its waterfront views and inviting spaces, is a central hub for activities and gatherings. Residents can use it for events or simply relax while taking in the coastal atmosphere. Adjacent to the clubhouse, the resort-style pool provides a spot to unwind, swim laps, or spend a casual afternoon with family and neighbors.

Fishing Opportunities

With its location near the water, Helms Port offers plenty of opportunities for fishing. Whether casting a line from the marina or heading out on a boat, residents can enjoy this timeless coastal pastime as part of their daily lives—a simple way to connect with the community’s surroundings.

These amenities collectively shape a lifestyle that prioritizes relaxation, activity, and connection to the coast, making everyday living feel more intentional and rewarding.

Exploring the Area Around Helms Port

Shopping & Essentials

Helms Port is well-positioned for convenient access to all your daily needs. Just a short drive away, you’ll find several grocery options, including a Harris Teeter and a Publix, both ideal for everyday shopping. The Mayfaire Town Center, approximately 15 minutes from the community, offers a mix of retail shopping, including popular brands like Williams Sonoma and Pottery Barn, along with smaller, specialty stores. For larger shopping trips, Independence Mall, also within easy reach, provides department stores and additional options to meet a variety of needs.

Dining & Entertainment

Living in Helms Port means you’re never far from a range of dining experiences. Historic downtown Wilmington is about 20 minutes away and offers a rich variety of restaurants, from locally sourced seafood spots to fine dining. Residents often visit the Riverwalk there, which provides not just great food but waterfront views and boutique shopping. The nearby town of Wrightsville Beach, less than 10 miles away, is perfect for casual dining after a beach day, with popular options like seafood shacks and family-friendly eateries.

Healthcare Access

Proximity to quality healthcare is an important consideration, and Helms Port offers convenient access to several well-regarded medical facilities. The New Hanover Regional Medical Center is under 20 minutes away and serves as a trusted, full-service hospital. Additionally, smaller clinics, specialists, and urgent care centers are located in the surrounding area, providing multiple options for managing day-to-day healthcare needs.

Cultural & Recreational Attractions

Wilmington is known for its rich history and cultural offerings, many of which are close to Helms Port. The historic downtown area is home to museums, art galleries, and theaters, such as Thalian Hall, which hosts live performances throughout the year. For outdoor enthusiasts, the community is a quick drive to Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island, ideal for kayaking, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the water. Residents often take advantage of local golf courses and nature preserves, adding to the area's diverse recreational options.

Travel & Accessibility

For those who travel frequently, Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is less than 30 minutes from Helms Port, making air travel convenient for both business and leisure. Additionally, the area’s proximity to major highways makes day trips to other North Carolina coastal towns, like Topsail Beach or Southport, both simple and enjoyable.

These nearby conveniences and attractions make living at Helms Port well-suited for those seeking both a peaceful home base and easy access to the amenities of a modern lifestyle.

Homes for sale in Helms Port

Homes for Sale in Helms Port

Helms Port offers a selection of thoughtfully designed homes, appealing to buyers who want both functionality and timeless style. Most of the homes here are single-family residences, ranging from move-in ready options to completely custom builds. Architectural styles lean toward classic coastal influences, with features like wide front porches, standing-seam metal roofs, and large windows designed to maximize natural light and water views. Many homes include details like open floor plans, gourmet kitchens, and outdoor living areas perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the mild coastal climate.

Home sizes vary to suit different needs, with layouts typically ranging from 2,000 to over 4,000 square feet. Prices generally fall between $700,000 and $2 million, depending on location, size, and finishes. Homesites closer to the water or with marina views are particularly sought after, offering a premium living experience for those who enjoy life on the waterfront.

Custom Home Building in Helms Port

For buyers who want a home built to their exact specifications, Helms Port provides opportunities for custom home building as well. There are still select homesites available, some of which feature water or marina views, offering the chance to design a home that fits your individual tastes and lifestyle. Local builders experienced in the community’s coastal aesthetic are available to guide the process. Whether your vision includes an expansive outdoor kitchen or a multi-purpose space to host family gatherings, custom homes offer flexibility to create spaces that feel uniquely yours.

A Tailored Approach to Living

What makes Helms Port’s real estate offerings truly distinctive is the focus on lifestyle. Whether you choose a move-in ready home or opt to design and build from the ground up, the emphasis is on balancing comfort with quality finishes that align with a coastal, outdoor-focused way of life. The range of options ensures that buyers can find something that suits their needs, whether they’re seeking a quiet retreat or a space to entertain and connect with friends and family. Helms Port invites you to imagine a home that feels both personal and deeply connected to its natural surroundings.

Is Helms Port right for you?

Helms Port offers a unique opportunity to embrace coastal living in a setting that feels both connected and private. With its water access, carefully designed amenities, and thoughtful home options, it’s an ideal match for buyers looking to balance a relaxed pace with an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to evenings on the water, neighborhood social gatherings, or simply the ease of living in a well-planned coastal community, Helms Port stands out as a place that lets you live intentionally and comfortably.

That said, choosing the right community is very personal—it’s about finding a place that truly fits your values, priorities, and the life you’re looking to create. As local real estate advisors, we specialize in helping clients explore all their options, from Helms Port to other distinctive communities throughout the Wilmington area. If you have questions or want to learn more, we’re here to provide clear, tailored insights to help you make confident decisions. Let’s navigate this process together and find the home and neighborhood that feel just right for you.