301 E Bay Street, Saint James, NC 28461

• 6 beds |
• 6 baths |
• 6,026 sqft

Property Description

Along Southport's iconic East Bay Street with elevated views of the Cape Fear River, this private residence historically known as The Brunswick Inn offers a rare high-bluff setting with sweeping water views and walkability to the waterfront, dining, and shops. Once a summer retreat for North Carolina Governors, your home has been fully renovated and restored to combine historic architecture with modern luxury. Spanning approximately 6,025 SF across three finished levels, including a 1,645 SF finished lower level, the residence features 6 bedrooms and 5.5 baths with heart pine floors, intricate moldings, signature Southport bow detailing, and soaring ceilings that enhance natural light throughout. A defining architectural feature, the central rotunda creates a rare circular floor plan and sense of arrival, complemented by a prominent staircase and wide halls that reinforce scale and flow. Formal living and dining rooms are anchored by fireplaces and statement lighting, offering true entertaining spaces. The fully remodeled kitchen is thoughtfully executed with high-end appliances and finishes that complement the home's historic character without overpowering it. Bedrooms are individually styled, many with fireplaces, strong natural light, and water views, supporting both residential living and hospitality use. The front porch is positioned to capture direct river views and coastal breezes, creating a true indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Grounds are framed by mature oaks and include an irrigation system, pond with water feature, French drains, river rock detailing, decorative brick parking, and new picket and privacy fencing. Exterior updates include Low-E storm windows and glass front door, updated chimney caps and flashings, rebuilt side porch with metal roof, and a 2025 rebuilt upper balcony with new French doors and rear stoop roof replacement. Interior improvements include a full kitchen remodel, complete renovation of all bathrooms, refinished hardwoods with antique board replacement, updated lighting throughout, and enhanced pantry and laundry spaces. The fully finished lower level, with multiple private entrances, offers flexibility for guest suites, extended living, or income-producing use. Major systems include a Generac whole-house generator, Rinnai tankless water heater, Halo whole-house filtration system, nine Mitsubishi mini-split systems for individualized climate control, new HVAC ductwork with attic insulation, updated electrical with increased amperage, new natural gas line, and full sewer replacement. Some furnishings are negotiable, offering a potential turnkey opportunity.

Listing Status:

Active

Date Added:

March 23, 2026

Data Last Updated:

March 26, 2026 at 5:15AM

Listing Office:

Ivester Jackson Christie's : 910-300-5140

MLS ID:

100562122

Interior

• General: Master DownstairsHigh CeilingsEntrance FoyerSolid SurfaceWhole-Home GeneratorCeiling Fan(s)PantryWalk-in ShowerBasementBlinds/ShadesGas Log
• Master Bedroom: Primary Living Area
• Appliances: Gas CooktopDown DraftBuilt-In MicrowaveSee RemarksRefrigeratorIce MakerDouble OvenDisposalDishwasherTankless Water HeaterGenerator
• Laundry: Dryer HookupWasher HookupLaundry Room
• Basement: Exterior EntryFinishedFull2Interior Entry
• Flooring: TileWood
• A/C: Central AirWall/Window Unit(s)
• Heating: Fireplace(s)ElectricHeat PumpZonedElectric
• Fireplace: Gas LogFireplace

Exterior

• General: Irrigation SystemGardenStorm DoorsStorage
• Style: Historic District
• Other Structures: StorageBalconyFront PorchPatioCovered
• Pool: None
• Parking: ConcreteOff StreetOn SitePavedParking PadParking spaces: 0

Construction

• Roofing: Architectural ShingleMetal
• General: ConcreteBlockBrickStoneWood SidingWood FrameThree Or MoreBrick/MortarBlock

Location

• Road/Access: MaintainedCity StreetState RoadPavedSee Remarks
• Originating MLS: Hive MLS
• School District: Brunswick County Schools
• County: Brunswick

Lot

• Zoning: Sp-R-10L-101.5X104238ib014
• View: OceanRiverWater
• Fencing: PrivacyWood

Utilities

• Utilities: Natural Gas ConnectedSewer ConnectedWater Connected
• Sewer: City/Town

Financial

• Source: Hive MLS