Southport Magazine

As May flowers begin to bloom, so do the sea turtles return to our shores in a primeval ritual of growth. Mother turtles will lay eggs, which will hatch throughout the summer season, in a new cycle of birth. Babies will forge into the water, cold yet natural on their fresh fins, to start lives of their own.

Read how Donna Michaux became known as Oak Island’s “Turtle Lady,” and why so many hatchlings rely on her help each year. She shares her story of loggerhead enthusiasm with us—from her very first encounter with the creatures. Plus, learn how you can get involved with sea turtles in our region.

This edition is also special because we set a focus on local fun in the form of excursions and summer cocktails. (Not together, but we suggest you make your own tour of area sippin’ spots—just promise to drink responsibly!) We offer a comprehensive guide to tours in our region, from paddle boarding in Bald Head Island waters to sight-seeing by way of tugboat in Southport. Click here for photos and recipes of some luscious libations, like this “Tropitini” to the right, just in time for the summer season to begin. Each drink was crafted by a local bartender, and every recipe is original.

Speaking of the kick-off to summer, check out our list of Memorial Day observance celebrations and other happenings that national holiday weekend. There’s plenty to do, from honoring our military heroes on the USS Battleship NC to raising the flag at Old Baldy.

Finally, we hope you enjoy our peek inside an Oak Island coastal abode. The home owners are quite lucky, with views of both lighthouses and Holden Beach. What a catch!

Cheers to you, readers,

Bethany Turner
Editor