The Bluffs was designed to make the most of life on the water – from the almost 4-acre lake alongside our Clubhouse to the Cape Fear River (our northern boundary). This mile-long stretch of scenic, wooded riverfront offers high bluffs that lead down to the lush, rolling waters of the storied Cape Fear River. In this series we look forward to introducing you to some of the winding waterways and creeks in and around the Leland area. So, get ready to get out in nature, enjoy our mild year round climate and take in the coastal wildlife our region has to offer.

To kick off this series, we have our sights set on Eagles Island. Head South on the Cape Fear River from our River Park Marina and you’ll make your way to Eagles Island, named for the merchant and planter Richard Eagles. This approximately 3,100-acre island is, and has remained, a major part of the Cape Fear area’s dynamic culture and history. Throughout the 1700s and 1800s, the fertile soils in the area lent themselves to the cultivation of rice, chief among other exports. Today, you can still see remnants of these rice fields as you explore the northern end of the island on Alligator Creek.

During the Civil War, the Cape Fear area saw its political power expand as the island was a major part of the area’s maritime industry and home to lumber mills, turpentine stills, warehouses, and shipyards. Today, the remains of various shipwrecks and historic dockyards line the shores of Eagles Island. You’ll want to check out the thorough Eagles Island Report from the New Hanover Soil and Water Conservation District.

Whether you are exploring the history of Eagles Island, or just want to relish in the natural beauty of the Cape Fear, our river-centric amenities at The Bluffs make it easy for you to choose your adventure. Fishing, birdwatching, kayaking, paddleboarding, or day-tripping…this river is ready. As you soak in the beauty of our area, you’ll understand what we mean when we say living on the water means more at The Bluffs. The history of our area and stories that shape our present day are embedded in the waters of the Cape Fear River right in our backyard. So, get out there and embrace river life at its best.