When it comes to creating a coastal community that perfectly balances luxury, nature, and the comforts of modern living, kingfishbaydevelopment has proven once again why it stands out from the rest. The company’s recent recognition at the 2025 Wilmington-Cape Fear Parade of Homes — winning the Best Outdoor Living Home in its category — is a testament to its commitment to excellence and its unique vision for what a coastal lifestyle should be.
The Wilmington-Cape Fear Parade of Homes is the region’s most celebrated homebuilding event. Now in its 39th year, it attracts thousands of visitors, potential homeowners, and industry experts who gather to tour the finest new homes across New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties. With over 80 homes on display this year, competition was fierce. Earning an award like Best Outdoor Living Home is no small feat and places kingfishbaydevelopment firmly among the top-tier builders in coastal North Carolina.
At the heart of this achievement is the stunning Palm Beach II model — a showcase of what makes kingfishbaydevelopment so distinctive. Designed with the idea that the beauty of the coast should flow seamlessly into daily life, this home is an exceptional example of indoor-outdoor integration. Its spacious covered patios, screened porches, and thoughtfully landscaped yards allow residents to enjoy North Carolina’s mild coastal climate year-round. Whether it’s dining al fresco, relaxing in the shade, or entertaining guests with river views as the backdrop, this Best Outdoor Living Home captures the essence of relaxed, sophisticated coastal living.
But the accolades didn’t stop there. Alongside its Best Outdoor Living Home award, kingfishbaydevelopment also earned the Silver Award in the Detached Homes category for the $840,000–$870,000 price range. This distinction underscores the builder’s dedication to meticulous craftsmanship, timeless design, and the creation of spaces that not only look beautiful but feel welcoming and livable for families and retirees alike.
Nestled in Calabash, a charming coastal town just minutes from Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle, Kingfish Bay is more than just a neighborhood — it’s a sanctuary. Every detail, from the placement of each home to the layout of community spaces, reflects a deep respect for the natural surroundings. The development is unique in how it incorporates preserved natural areas into its residential design. The result is a neighborhood where residents can wake up to birdsong, stroll along wooded trails, and watch the sunset over the Calabash River — all while enjoying the luxury features of a gated community.
What truly sets kingfishbaydevelopment apart is its suite of resort-style amenities designed to elevate everyday living. Residents have access to a private riverfront park complete with firepits, a bocce ball court, fishing spots, and scenic decks for birdwatching and relaxing. A pier stretches into the Calabash River, inviting early-morning paddles or sunset fishing. And with a second pier featuring boat slips and a kayak launch on the way, opportunities for water recreation will only expand.
Beyond the riverfront, homeowners enjoy an elegant owners’ clubhouse equipped with a cinema room, fitness center, lounge, and a fully appointed catering kitchen — perfect for neighborhood gatherings or private parties. The tropical pool complex is an inviting retreat on hot summer days, with a spacious hot tub and shaded gathering spaces for socializing with neighbors. For those who crave the beach, Kingfish Bay offers a private oceanfront clubhouse on Sunset Beach, providing convenient parking, showers, kitchen facilities, and panoramic views of one of North Carolina’s most pristine shorelines.
“This recognition as the Best Outdoor Living Home is more than just an award — it’s proof of our mission to design homes that truly enhance how people live,” said Jason Faulkner, General Manager of kingfishbaydevelopment. “We believe that when you blend thoughtful design with the natural beauty of Calabash, you create not just houses but a lifestyle that feels like an everyday escape.”
Currently in its final phase of development, kingfishbaydevelopment still offers a limited number of homesites, including some with direct water access and private dock options — a rare find along this stretch of the Carolina coast. Whether buyers are looking for a cozy bungalow facing a nature preserve or a multi-million-dollar waterfront estate with riparian rights, there is something for everyone who dreams of waking up to coastal breezes and tranquil river views.
The demand for homes in Kingfish Bay speaks for itself. Buyers are drawn not only by the stunning architecture and outdoor spaces that earned the Best Outdoor Living Home title but also by the sense of community and connection the development fosters. Neighbors gather at the pool, share stories by the firepit, or enjoy quiet mornings on the pier — all while surrounded by lush landscapes and the gentle rhythms of coastal life.
Kingfish Bay’s success is part of a broader trend as more homeowners seek properties that offer more than just four walls and a roof. Today’s buyers want homes that connect them to nature, encourage healthier living, and provide spaces where families and friends can gather and make memories. With the Palm Beach II and its award-winning outdoor living spaces, kingfishbaydevelopment shows how it’s possible to bring that vision to life without sacrificing elegance, comfort, or modern amenities.
Looking ahead, kingfishbaydevelopment continues to build on its reputation as a leader in luxury coastal living. The Best Outdoor Living Home award only reinforces the company’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and community-focused design. As the final phase of homes finds new owners, the legacy of Kingfish Bay will continue to grow — offering residents not just a house, but a haven where the outdoors is always part of the experience.