Figure Eight Island is a dream come true. Imagine driving across your own gated causeway bridge on North Carolina’s stunning coast and arriving on a private island, an island you call home. It is almost surreal to pull up in front of your gorgeous coastal home, where you step out on the balcony to taste the salt air and feel the breeze in your hair. You can watch the waves roll in across five miles of white beaches and unspoiled landscaping done by Mother Nature. With over 1,300 acres, Figure Eight Island is an exclusive oceanfront community just 12 miles north of Wilmington that provides the respite and beautiful surroundings you have always dreamed of.
Figure Eight is named for the twisting paths winding through the marshes of Rich’s Inlet Creek. Active in its preservation of wildlife, the community was designed to highlight the pristine environment of the island. Homes were designed around the existing plant life and natural resources, making the island a haven for sea turtles, piping plovers, sea beach amaranth, and dolphins. Ocean and marshfront activities that will complete your coastal lifestyle are hunting for shells, digging for crabs, walking by the ocean, or just basking in the luxurious amenities. The north end of Figure Eight Island is composed of maritime forest, with standing oaks over a century old. Homes on the island were designed to preserve the natural vegetation, resulting in the “treehouse” style that brought island architects awards from the N.C. Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.
Some of the most stunning architecture on the North Carolina coast is featured at Figure Eight. With about 475 private homes, the island is a safe haven from the disturbances of the outside world. Island homes feature panoramic ocean, sound, and marsh views, with homes on the sound side of the island ideal for boat owners. Soundfront homes feature their own boat slips, from where you can head out for a day on the water. Home designs are the ultimate in luxury living. Contemporary coastal homes feature all the indoor and outdoor comforts a homeowner could want, with the blue Atlantic as a backdrop or through the front windows. The island is loved by both retirees and families desirous of this idyllic coastal setting, and celebrities and other members of America’s upper echelon have made Figure Eight their vacation retreat. The island is so impressive that it has been the backdrop for television shows and films, including “Dawson’s Creek” and “Sleeping With the Enemy”. Figure Eight homes are popular coastal vacation rentals for romantic getaways and family vacations.
The island provides the ultimate in southern coastal living. Residents and guests enjoy surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding, and canoeing. Birdwatchers are in heaven, with the plethora of nesting and migrating birds that visit the island. Amenities at Figure Eight are unmatched. Serve up a game of tennis at the courts, or cool off in the pool. Visit the Figure Eight fitness center for a hearty workout, then enjoy cocktails on the deck of the members only Figure Eight Island Yacht Club. Figure Eight also offers a kid’s club, playground, and ongoing events. Meet up for Dinner in the Helm at the Yacht Club, or join in “Coffee, Conversation and the Daily News” on weekend mornings. The Marina gives boat owners access to the Intracoastal Waterway by way of a deep water channel.
When you decide to wander off the island, Wrightsville Beach and historic Wilmington are only a few miles away. There is no shortage of opportunities for entertaining or just spending quiet time with your loved ones in Wilmington. Shops and boutiques along the Riverwalk are plentiful. Stop into one of the cafes for a cup of coffee or snack during a day of shopping, then wait for the night to light up with live music. Take visiting guests to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, or for a nostalgic drive through the historic district.
If you’ve been dreaming of living in a castle on your own private island, Figure Eight is your destination. Combine the splendor of the homes with the natural coastal atmosphere for a perfect mix of solitude and community. Ideal for entertaining or as a refuge, this superior community offers activities for nature lovers and lovers of luxury.