The Haven at Riverlights

The Haven at RiverLights is a distinctive neighborhood within the larger RiverLights master-planned community — a collection of single-family homes by Pulte Homes along the Cape Fear River in southern New Hanover County. The Haven offers an accessible entry point into one of Wilmington’s most amenity-rich waterfront communities, with all the benefits of the broader RiverLights lifestyle.

As part of RiverLights, Haven residents enjoy full access to the community’s extensive amenities: the freshwater lake, riverwalk, kayak launches, resort pool, fitness center, parks, and the growing Marina Village commercial area. The Haven adds its own neighborhood-scale gathering spaces and a quieter, more intimate feel within the larger community.

Homes in The Haven are built by Pulte Homes, one of the nation’s most established homebuilders. The collection features thoughtfully designed single-family homes with open floor plans, modern kitchens, and energy-efficient construction. Pulte’s reputation for consumer-focused design means homes include practical features like built-in organization systems and flexible living spaces.

As of early 2026, the median home price in The Haven at RiverLights is approximately $460K. Prices range from the low $400K range to homes exceeding $510K, making this one of the more accessible new-construction options within the RiverLights community.

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 provide access to the full RiverLights amenity package, including the lake, riverwalk, pools, fitness center, and community programming.

Life in The Haven shares all the benefits of the broader RiverLights community. The Cape Fear River provides a stunning natural backdrop, while the freshwater lake offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and lakeside relaxation. The riverwalk connects The Haven to Marina Village and the community’s recreational areas.

The Haven’s position within RiverLights gives residents access to one of the most active community lifestyle programs in the Wilmington area. Full-time lifestyle directors coordinate events, fitness classes, social gatherings, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

Dining and entertainment options within Marina Village continue to expand, with Waterline Brewing Co. and other restaurants and shops opening in phases. The broader RiverLights area along River Road provides additional options, and Carolina Beach is just 10 minutes south.

• KoKo Cabana — fish tacos, seafood plates, and coastal cocktails right next to The Haven at 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

Social connections in The Haven come naturally through the broader RiverLights community events and the neighborhood’s own gatherings. The community attracts a mix of young families, professionals, and active adults who share an appreciation for waterfront living and community engagement.

The Haven is served by New Hanover County Schools. Students attend area schools including Anderson Elementary and Ashley High School. The school district continues to plan for the growing southern New Hanover County population.

• 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 are within a 15–20 minute drive.

The Haven at RiverLights is located in southern New Hanover County along River Road (NC-133). Downtown Wilmington is approximately 15 minutes north, and Carolina Beach is roughly 10 minutes south.

ILM airport is approximately 20 minutes away. The community benefits from the same convenient positioning as the broader RiverLights development — between downtown and the beaches, with easy access to US-421 and the wider road network.