Features Bear Island, a 3-mile-long barrier island accessible by ferry or kayak. Offers pristine beaches with limited development, primitive camping, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing.
North Carolina Beaches
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.