RiverLights

RiverLights is the largest and most ambitious master-planned community in the Wilmington area — a waterfront development along the Cape Fear River in southern New Hanover County that combines new-construction homes from multiple builders with a vibrant town center, Marina Village, and extensive natural amenities. The community has quickly become one of the region’s most sought-after addresses since its launch.

Stretching along over a mile of Cape Fear River frontage, RiverLights features a man-made freshwater lake, a riverwalk, kayak and paddleboard launches, parks, trails, and the growing Marina Village commercial area. The community is designed to blend coastal living with modern convenience, offering walkable access to shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.

Homes in RiverLights span a wide range: from townhomes and paired homes to single-family residences and custom waterfront estates. Active builders include Pulte Homes, Del Webb, K. Hovnanian, and several others, offering architectural styles from coastal traditional to modern farmhouse. Many homes feature river or lake views, and the community’s design emphasizes connection to the natural waterfront setting.

As of early 2026, the median home price in RiverLights is approximately $540K. The range extends from townhomes starting in the $300K range to custom river-view homes exceeding $1 million. The Del Webb active-adult section offers a distinct product line for 55+ buyers.

By property type:

• Oceanfront and ocean-adjacent homes: $500K – $700K+, with premium lots near “The Point” (the island’s famous sunset-viewing spot) commanding the highest prices
• Interior homes and second-row properties: $350K – $550K, depending on lot size, condition, and proximity to beach accesses
• Cottages and smaller homes: From the low $300Ks, offering entry-level coastal ownership or strong rental investment potential

Property taxes follow New Hanover County rates at an effective combined rate of approximately 0.45%. HOA fees at RiverLights cover the community’s extensive amenity infrastructure, including the lake, trails, Marina Village maintenance, and community events programming.

Life at RiverLights is centered on the water. The community’s signature freshwater lake offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while the Cape Fear River provides a stunning natural backdrop. The Riverwalk connects neighborhoods to Marina Village, where residents gather for dining, events, and socializing.

The amenity lineup includes a resort-style pool, fitness center, parks and playgrounds, dog park, and community event spaces. The lake beach area provides a unique freshwater beach experience. Walking and biking trails weave throughout the community, connecting residential areas to commercial and recreational spaces.

Marina Village serves as the community’s commercial heart, with restaurants, a brewery (Waterline Brewing Co.), shops, and services opening in phases. RiverLights’ location along River Road also provides easy access to established dining and shopping along the US-421 corridor toward Carolina Beach.

• KoKo Cabana — fish tacos, seafood plates, and coastal cocktails right next to RiverLights Pier
• Solar Brewing Company — the island’s first brewery, with handcrafted pizzas, wings, and locally brewed beer
• Ocean Crest Fishing Pier — 893 feet long, open April through September; $2 admission to walk and watch
• Seahorse Eats and Drinks — casual beer and wine bar at the Ocean Crest Pier

The social calendar at RiverLights is one of the community’s strongest features. A full-time lifestyle director coordinates movie nights, food truck festivals, live music, holiday celebrations, fitness events, and community gatherings that build connections among residents. The annual RiverLights Luminaries event is a community highlight.

RiverLights is served by New Hanover County Schools. Students attend area schools including Anderson Elementary and Ashley High School. The county system offers magnet programs and specialized academies. A new elementary school serving the RiverLights area is planned as the community grows.

• West Brunswick High School — Niche grade B-minus, 1,512 students with a 17:1 student-teacher ratio
• Brunswick County Early College High School — Niche grade A, a selective option for 365 students seeking accelerated academics

Private school options are available throughout the Wilmington area. UNCW and Cape Fear Community College provide higher education access within a 15–20 minute drive.

RiverLights is located in southern New Hanover County along River Road (NC-133), approximately 10 miles south of downtown Wilmington. Carolina Beach is roughly 10 minutes south, and the community’s River Road access connects to US-421.

ILM airport is approximately 20 minutes away. The community is well-positioned between downtown Wilmington (15 minutes north) and the Pleasure Island beaches (10–15 minutes south), making it a convenient base for the full Wilmington lifestyle.