Privately-owned, nearly undeveloped 10,000-acre barrier island accessible only by boat. Accommodates just 32 overnight guests at its all-inclusive Lodge. Features 7 miles of pristine beaches, guided naturalist tours, and exceptional wildlife viewing.
Beaches for Wildlife
Fripp Island
Private resort island featuring 3.5 miles of beaches, two championship golf courses, and a marina. Known for abundant wildlife including deer and alligators, and as a filming location for “Forrest Gump” and “The Prince of Tides.”
Beachwalker Park
The only public beach access on private Kiawah Island, offering boardwalks through maritime forests and dunes. Features picnic areas, restrooms, and chair/umbrella rentals. Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches.
Seabrook Island
Private, gated community with exclusive beaches, championship golf courses, and an equestrian center. Features a mix of maritime forests, salt marshes, and beaches. Known for its commitment to environmental preservation and wildlife.
Harbor Island
Private gated community between St. Helena Island and Hunting Island featuring 2.5 miles of pristine beaches. Known for excellent shelling, wildlife viewing including dolphins and loggerhead turtles, and quiet, uncrowded atmosphere.
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Untouched barrier islands accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat. Features the iconic diamond-patterned Cape Lookout Lighthouse, historic Portsmouth Village, primitive camping, and the best shelling in North Carolina.
Shackleford Banks
Pristine barrier island accessible only by ferry or private boat, famous for its wild horses (Shackleford ponies) and exceptional shelling opportunities. Features undeveloped beaches, maritime forests, and primitive camping with no facilities.
Smith Island
Barrier island in Virginia’s portion of Chesapeake Bay Watershed, part of the Smith Island complex. Undeveloped natural beaches with limited access (primarily through guided tours). Important wildlife habitat with minimal human impact.
False Cape State Park
Remote undeveloped beach between Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the North Carolina border. Accessible only by foot, bicycle, beach transport, or boat. Features primitive camping, 6 miles of beaches, and diverse habitats. Entry fee required.
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Wildlife sanctuary on Chesapeake Bay featuring several shoreline access points but no designated swimming areas. Primarily focused on birdwatching, wildlife observation, and fishing. Limited facilities with nature as the main attraction.