Where is shackleford island nc

But horse watching is just one of the activities to experience. Go for a leisurely ramble, and be enveloped by an array of shells that have washed up on the shore. The Shackleford Banks are known for some of the best shelling North Carolina has to offer. Marvel at the remote beauty of the island as you explore the banks on your hiking journey. With over 9 miles to discover, you can choose to take a nice stroll along the beach or head through the dunes following paths made by the wild horses.

In between the dunes, you will be encompassed by low flat areas that are perfect spots for camping. If you are looking for a relaxing dip, the Bogue side of the island is soothing and calm with barely a current. The sound waters are ideal for anyone, but groups with small children or dogs will especially enjoy the safety and tranquility. Make sure to always swim with a buddy and check out the Cape Lookout swimming safety tips.

Half of the adventure of going to the barrier island is how you get there. Start your day by taking an exciting 15—20 minute passenger ferry ride, where you have a chance to see dolphins swimming alongside as you make your way across.

These can fill up fast, so make sure to book your passenger ferry services as soon as your date is narrowed down. Visitors who want to explore a natural portion of the Cape Lookout National Seashore with little effort will want to check out the Shackleford Banks. Located just south of Beaufort and Harkers Island, this picturesque and undeveloped barrier island shoreline is a popular destination for visitors who would like to relax, take in the salt air, and enjoy the beach scene.

The Shackleford Banks is part of three components of the mile long Cape Lookout National Seashore, and is the southeastern most region of the National Park Service managed site.

The primary island is approximately 8. In addition, its western edge is bordered by Beaufort Inlet, while its eastern end is bordered by the much narrower Barden Inlet, which makes is a popular destination for fishermen. Located just a few miles away at most from both Harkers Island and Beaufort, with a number of ferry services that depart from the heart of Downtown Beaufort, the Shackleford Banks is arguably the easiest barrier island to reach out of the three portions of the Cape Lookout National Seashore.

The Shackleford Banks was first acquired by a Virginia planter named John Shackleford in who was granted several large tracts of coastal NC land, which included the skinny barrier island. This island town, however, would not last for long, as an hurricane persuaded virtually all of the residents to abandon the town, with the last island dwellers leaving by Another hurricane, the Outer Banks Hurricane, opened up an inlet on the eastern edge of the Shackleford Banks, separating it once and for all from the Core Banks and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

This is the perfect adventure for kids and adults alike. The ferry captains are great and the experience is one to remember. There is nothing quite like being on an uninhabited island and finding awesome sea shells in abundance.

The wooden walkways to the ocean side of the island are terrific. Benches are spaced perfectly for those who need to catch a rest. Staff and crew were helpful, professional and friendly with the Down East flair that keeps Harkers Island a truly unique gem here in the great United States.

Cape Lookout and Shackleford Banks are guaranteed to exceed expectations every time. We provide park visitors with great service while facilitating visitor understanding and appreciation for the park. Click here to Rentals Rentals View All ». Very Popular! Articles on the herd, including tips for horse watching, have been published in current and past editions of the park newspaper. These articles can also be downloaded from the links below:. Information on the management of the herd can be found in the General Management Plan on the Current Documents page.

View more pictures of the Shackleford herd in the Horses Photo Gallery.