Learn more about Brunswick Forest
Brunswick Forest is a beautiful and thriving community located in Leland, NC, just minutes away from the historic port city of Wilmington. This master-planned development spans more than 4,500 acres and includes 14 unique neighborhoods surrounded by pristine forests, tranquil ponds, and winding waterways. Its thoughtfully preserved natural setting offers a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities and contributes to the serene, coastal lifestyle residents enjoy.
Offering a diverse mix of housing options, Brunswick Forest features single-family homes, patio homes, and townhomes tailored to a variety of architectural tastes and lifestyle preferences. Built with high standards of quality craftsmanship, homes in Brunswick Forest showcase modern designs, spacious floor plans, energy-efficient features, and high-end finishes that cater to both relaxed and upscale coastal living.
What truly sets Brunswick Forest apart is the abundance of resort-style amenities and recreational opportunities designed to support an active and vibrant lifestyle. With its comprehensive offering of fitness, nature, water, and social experiences, it’s no surprise this award-winning community has become one of the fastest-growing developments in Brunswick County.
Championship Golf & Elegant Dining
At the heart of the community lies the renowned Cape Fear National® Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course designed by acclaimed golf architect Tim Cate. Celebrated for its challenging layout and stunning design elements, the course is open to the public and frequently ranked among the top golf courses in North Carolina. Players enjoy beautiful surroundings, water features, and exceptional course conditions year-round.
The Cape Fear National clubhouse offers a stylish dining venue and bar where residents and visitors can enjoy a delicious meal, Sunday brunch, or drinks with views of the greens. The pro shop, locker rooms, and event space make this a central hub for golfers and social gatherings alike.
Four Pools for Wellness, Relaxation, and Recreation
Brunswick Forest stands out for offering not one, but four distinct community pools, each catering to different aspects of recreation and relaxation:
- Indoor Pool at the Fitness & Wellness Center – This heated, saline-based indoor pool is perfect for year-round enjoyment. It accommodates lap swimming, water aerobics, and aquatic fitness classes. The pool is especially popular for low-impact exercise and wellness programs.
- Outdoor Pool at the Fitness & Wellness Center – Adjacent to the indoor facility, this zero-entry, resort-style pool features expansive lounging areas with umbrellas and sun chairs. It’s ideal for soaking up the North Carolina sunshine or enjoying a casual swim with friends.
- Hammock Pool at Hammock Lake Park – Located in the Shelmore neighborhood, this pool provides a more tranquil, beach-like experience. It includes a splash pad, shaded cabana seating, and bocce ball courts nearby. The setting is complemented by mature landscaping and a park-like atmosphere.
- Reflections Pool at the Reflections Amenity Center – The newest addition to the community’s aquatic lineup, this tropical-themed pool features a beach-entry design, a wet lounging deck, and ample seating amid lush surroundings. It’s part of the Reflections Amenity Center, which also includes a modern fitness area and meeting spaces.
Expansive Fitness & Wellness Facilities
Health-minded residents are drawn to the Fitness & Wellness Center, a premier 18,000-square-foot facility offering a comprehensive array of exercise and training options. Amenities include:
- Cardio and strength-training equipment
- A spacious aerobics and yoga studio
- Tennis courts
- Pickleball courts
- A basketball half-court
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Locker rooms with showers
- A juice and snack bar for post-workout refreshments
Professional personal trainers and group fitness instructors are available, and the calendar includes classes such as yoga, Pilates, strength training, Zumba, and water aerobics. The Fitness Center frequently hosts wellness seminars and healthy lifestyle events throughout the year.
Over 100 Miles of Walking & Biking Trails
One of Brunswick Forest’s most beloved features is its extensive network of over 100 miles of walking and biking trails. These scenic paths connect every neighborhood with natural preserves, parks, lakes, and amenity centers. Whether you prefer a leisurely evening stroll, an early morning jog, or an invigorating bike ride through shaded woodlands, the trail system offers an unmatched way to enjoy the outdoors.
Many of the trails are paved and wide enough to accommodate multiple users comfortably, and benches, gazebos, and bridges are thoughtfully placed throughout for rest and scenic views.
Nature, Kayaking & Water Access
Outdoor enthusiasts have access to numerous natural areas and waterways, including Hammock Lake and Town Creek, a tidal waterway that connects to the Cape Fear River. Residents can enjoy:
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Launch docks are available for small watercraft, providing peaceful paddling opportunities and nature viewing.
- Fishing Spots: Several ponds and creekside areas are open to catch-and-release fishing.
- Picnic Areas: Grassy lawns, shaded groves, and covered shelters invite impromptu picnics and quiet afternoons outdoors.
- Boardwalks and Overlooks: Raised walkways through wetlands and wooded areas encourage wildlife watching and offer serene vistas.
Parks, Dog-Friendly Spaces & Sports Facilities
Brunswick Forest includes four thoughtfully designed community parks, complete with:
- A fenced dog park for off-leash play
- Bocce ball courts
- Horseshoe pits
- Open lawns for impromptu sports or events
- Picnic pavilions and gazebos
- Basketball court for pickup games and recreational use
- The parks are connected by trails and located strategically throughout the community, ensuring residents are always within walking or biking distance of a green space.
The Villages at Brunswick Forest
One of the most convenient features of Brunswick Forest is its on-site commercial town center—The Villages at Brunswick Forest. This 160-acre development blends retail, dining, healthcare, and professional services into one accessible hub, eliminating the need for residents to travel far for everyday essentials.
- Restaurants & Cafés: From casual bites to upscale dining, residents can enjoy pizzerias, seafood restaurants, coffee shops, and more.
- Grocery Store: A full-service supermarket with pharmacy, deli, bakery, beer growler station, and online ordering.
- Healthcare Services:
- Novant Health Brunswick Forest Medical Center: A 40,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility
- Dental, Orthopedic, and Eye Care Offices
- Urgent care and rehabilitation services
- Other Amenities: Banks, salons, fitness studios, boutiques, dry cleaners, and pet care providers
Community Spirit and Social Life
Brunswick Forest is more than a collection of beautiful homes and impressive amenities—it’s a place where people feel truly connected. The community fosters a lively, social atmosphere with dozens of resident-run clubs, from gardening and photography to bridge, travel, and wine tasting.
Events and activities are held throughout the year and include outdoor concerts, seasonal festivals, lectures, themed socials, and volunteer opportunities. The combination of elegant gathering spaces and a packed social calendar makes it easy for residents to meet new people and stay engaged.
Accolades and Recognition
- Ideal-Living’s “America’s 100 Best Places to Live – 2021”
- “Top 50 Master-Planned Communities of 2017”
- “Best Tennis & Pickleball and Best Kayaking Community – 2017″
- Where to Retire’s “50 Best Master Planned Communities in the United States” – 2017
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