Ocean Ridge Plantation vs Brunswick Forest vs Compass Pointe
Comparing Three Top Amenity-Rich Communities in Brunswick County NC
Choosing the right master-planned community for your coastal North Carolina retirement can feel overwhelming with so many excellent options. Three of the most frequently compared communities in Brunswick County are Ocean Ridge Plantation, Brunswick Forest, and Compass Pointe. Each offers resort-style amenities, championship golf, and an active adult lifestyle, but they differ in location, atmosphere, pricing, and focus. This side-by-side comparison will help you decide which one best matches your retirement vision.
Quick Comparison Table
Ocean Ridge Plantation | Brunswick Forest | Compass Pointe)
| Feature | Ocean Ridge Plantation | Brunswick Forest | Compass Pointe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Southern Brunswick County (Ocean Isle Beach area) | Leland (northern Brunswick County) | Leland (northern Brunswick County) |
| Golf Holes | 72 holes (4 courses – “Big Cats”) | 18 holes (Cape Fear National) | 18 holes (Rick Robbins design) |
| Beach Access | Private oceanfront beach club on Ocean Isle | 20–30 min drive to beaches | 20–30 min drive to beaches |
| Gated | Yes | No (master-planned, not gated) | Yes |
| Home Price Range (2025) | $400K–$1M+ (premium coastal) | $350K–$800K+ (newer builds) | $400K–$900K+ |
| HOA Fees (approx annual) | $2,500–$3,500+ | $2,200–$3,000 | $2,400–$3,200 |
| Best Known For | Premier golf + private beach club | Extensive trails + Wilmington proximity | Gated luxury + strong social scene |
Ocean Ridge Plantation

Lifestyle & Feel Ocean Ridge offers a luxurious, golf-first coastal lifestyle in a gated setting near Ocean Isle Beach. Residents enjoy a true resort atmosphere with mature landscaping and a strong sense of exclusivity.
Golf Home to 72 holes across four acclaimed courses known as the “Big Cats” (Lion’s Paw, Panther’s Run, Tiger’s Eye, Leopard’s Chase). Includes a full practice facility and active golf associations.
Homes & Price Range Custom single-family homes, townhomes, and lots. Prices typically range from $400K for townhomes to over $1M for golf or water-view custom builds.
HOA & Amenities Gated community with a private oceanfront beach club on Ocean Isle, clubhouse, indoor/outdoor pools, fitness center, tennis/pickleball, 100+ social clubs, and miles of trails.
Best For Golf enthusiasts and retirees who prioritize a private beach club, premium coastal location, and resort-style luxury.
$510,000
Active
154 Windsor Circle SW Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 2,284 SqFt 0.42 Acres
$525,000
Active
7035 Bloomsbury Court SW Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 1,895 SqFt 0.21 Acres
$550,000
Active
6871 Beckman Circle SW 50 Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
3 Beds 3 Baths 2,327 SqFt 0.19 Acres
Brunswick Forest

Lifestyle & Feel Brunswick Forest delivers a vibrant, nature-focused master-planned lifestyle with a welcoming, non-gated community feel and easy access to Wilmington’s culture and healthcare.
Golf Features the highly regarded 18-hole Cape Fear National course with practice facilities and active golf groups.
Homes & Price Range Newer single-family homes, townhomes, and patio homes from multiple builders. Prices generally range from $350K to $800K+, with many options in the $400K–$600K sweet spot.
HOA & Amenities Extensive wellness center, indoor/outdoor pools, tennis/pickleball, fitness classes, kayak launches, 100+ miles of walking/biking trails, and an active social calendar.
Best For Buyers wanting newer construction, proximity to Wilmington for dining/medical/culture, and a strong trail/outdoor focus.
$367,500
Active
1229 Clendon Circle Leland, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 1,487 SqFt 0.12 Acres
$395,000
Active
3109 Lochgreen Circle Leland, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 1,475 SqFt 0.14 Acres
$399,000
Active
1272 Clendon Circle Leland, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 1,618 SqFt 0.18 Acres
Compass Pointe

Lifestyle & Feel Compass Pointe provides a gated, upscale resort lifestyle with a strong sense of community and social engagement in a convenient Leland location.
Golf 18-hole championship course designed by Rick Robbins, plus practice facilities and active golf programs.
Homes & Price Range Custom and semi-custom single-family homes and townhomes. Prices typically range from $400K to $900K+, appealing to buyers seeking gated luxury.
HOA & Amenities Grand Lanai clubhouse, resort-style pool with lazy river, indoor pool, fitness center, tennis/pickleball, dog park, and numerous clubs and events.
Best For Retirees who want gated security, a lively social scene, and a balance of amenities with easy access to Wilmington.
$545,000
Active
2267 Reefside Loop NE Leland, North Carolina
3 Beds 3 Baths 1,904 SqFt 0.15 Acres
$549,900
Active
9034 Mango Bay Court NE Leland, North Carolina
3 Beds 4 Baths 2,310 SqFt 0.14 Acres
$579,900
Active
9036 Island Rider Court NE Leland, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 2,197 SqFt 0.15 Acres
Key Differences at a Glance
- Location: Ocean Ridge is coastal/southern (closer to beaches), while Brunswick Forest and Compass Pointe are in Leland (closer to Wilmington).
- Gated vs Open: Ocean Ridge and Compass Pointe are gated; Brunswick Forest is master-planned but not gated.
- Golf Emphasis: Ocean Ridge leads with 72 holes; Brunswick Forest and Compass Pointe each offer 18 high-quality holes.
- Beach Access: Only Ocean Ridge includes a private beach club.
- Pricing & Feel: Brunswick Forest often has newer builds and slightly lower entry points; Ocean Ridge skews premium coastal; Compass Pointe offers strong gated value.
Which Community Is Right for You?
All three communities offer an exceptional retirement lifestyle, but your priorities will guide the choice. If you love premier golf and a private beach club, Ocean Ridge Plantation stands out. If newer homes and Wilmington convenience matter most, Brunswick Forest is hard to beat. If gated luxury with a vibrant social scene appeals, Compass Pointe delivers beautifully.
As a local Brunswick County specialist, I’ve helped dozens of buyers tour and compare these communities. I’d love to create a personalized comparison based on your budget, must-haves, and lifestyle.
Suzanne Polino | Retire Coastal NC Specialist REALTOR
910-477-1378
Contact Me Today for a No-Pressure Strategy Conversation