Tucked inside the upscale Brunswick Forest community just minutes from historic downtown Wilmington, Cape Fear National is a premier public-access course that feels every bit like a private club. Designed by Tim Cate, this visually stunning and thoughtfully crafted layout has earned consistent praise as one of the top golf courses in coastal North Carolina.

Course Overview

Opened in 2009, Cape Fear National is a championship-caliber course known for its bold bunkering, native grasses, and dramatic use of water features. The design flows through mature hardwoods, natural wetlands, and native pines, providing both beauty and challenge across a wide variety of shot-making scenarios.

Architect: Tim Cate
Yardage: 7,217 yards from the tips
Slope / Rating: 140 / 74.3
Par: 72
Course Type: Public (upscale daily fee)
Greens: Champion Bermuda
Signature Hole: #13 – A gorgeous par-3 over wetlands with a massive, undulating green protected by dramatic bunkering and native grasses

The Golfer’s Review

Cape Fear National is a visual treat and a serious test of golf. The fairways are generous but deceptively contoured, and the approach shots demand precision with water and sand lurking on nearly every hole. The greens roll pure and quick, and the bunkering—both in scale and placement—is among the most memorable on the Grand Strand.

This is a course that rewards strategy, especially on the back nine where water comes into play on most holes. It’s the type of layout you’ll want to play more than once to truly appreciate its nuance.

Amenities

Cape Fear National offers first-class amenities that rival private clubs, creating a complete golf destination experience.

  • Clubhouse: Stylish 7,000-square-foot facility with locker rooms, pro shop, and event space

  • Practice Facilities: Expansive driving range, short game complex, and large putting green

  • Instruction: PGA professional staff available for lessons and clinics

  • Dining: The Forest Restaurant offers full-service dining with a seasonal menu and outdoor seating overlooking the course

Location

Address: 1281 Cape Fear National Dr, Leland, NC 28451
Nearby Courses: Magnolia Greens, Compass Pointe, Bald Head Island Club
Lodging Nearby: Wilmington’s riverfront hotels, Leland area rentals, oceanfront options on Wrightsville and Carolina Beach
Dining Nearby: The Felix Café, Farmhouse Kitchen, and downtown Wilmington’s celebrated restaurant scene

Cape Fear National is one of the most visually engaging and well-conditioned courses in the region. It’s a must-play for serious golfers visiting coastal North Carolina and a proud centerpiece of the Brunswick Forest lifestyle.

Pro Tip: Don’t get greedy off the tee—club selection and angles matter more here than raw distance. Bring your short game A-game.