North Carolina’s Outer Banks are celebrated for their alluring beaches and charming coastal towns. Yet, tucked away near the southern end of this picturesque stretch lies Harkers Island—a hidden gem that, while not formally part of the Outer Banks, embodies much of the same coastal charm and allure. Harkers Island serves as the gateway to Cape Lookout National Seashore, enhancing its draw for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Geographically, Harkers Island is a well-kept secret. It’s ensconced from the ocean by the Outer Banks and further shielded by Shackleford Banks to the south. With a population of just over 1,000, this 3-mile-long island isn’t easily accessible via major highways; visitors must arrive by boat or cross a small bridge on Harkers Island Road. This isolation lends the island a small-town feel and makes its discoveries all the more delightful.
For seafood enthusiasts, Harkers Island is a paradise. The community has deep-rooted ties to fishing, and visitors can savor an abundance of fresh fish, shrimp, clams, oysters, and crabs—straight from the waters of Core Sound. Although the options for dining are limited, venues like the Fish Hook Grill serve up local seafood in authentic “Down East” style, ensuring each meal is a celebration of the island’s maritime heritage.
Beach and Camping Access at Harkers Island
Harkers Island boasts stunning beaches, though much of its shoreline is surrounded by salt marshes and tidal creeks ripe for exploration. Kayaking and hiking on trails like the Willow Pond Trail offer unique perspectives on the lush ecosystems. One notable access point is the Harkers Island Beach and Boat Ramp, featuring a charming sandy area that provides splendid views and a boat ramp for watercraft launches, making it easy to explore nearby islands.
As the crucial access point to Cape Lookout National Seashore, Harkers Island is the gateway to pristine beaches and fascinating natural attractions. The national seashore includes South Core, North Core, and Shackleford Banks, where wild horses roam freely. Visitors can catch a ferry from the eastern side of Harkers Island to these islands, allowing deeper dives into this natural paradise.
Each island in the national seashore offers untamed beaches littered with shells, while South Core features the iconic Cape Lookout Lighthouse and a small museum in the historic keeper’s cottage. Interestingly, this area has also been designated as an International Dark Sky Park, promising exhilarating views of the Milky Way at night.
Camping at Harkers Island
Camping enthusiasts will find multiple options on Harkers Island and its surrounding areas. RV-friendly sites are available at places like Harkers Island RV Resort and Cape Lookout RV Park, providing modern convenience alongside natural beauty. For those seeking a taste of the wild, renting cabins on Cape Lookout National Seashore is a fantastic choice. The North Core Cabin Camp features 16 cabins that can accommodate four to eight campers, complete with showers and restrooms.
Primitive tent camping is also an option for those looking to truly immerse themselves in nature. Tent sites are available on all three islands of the national seashore, with certain protected areas being off-limits. Campers can enjoy facilities like restrooms and showers seasonally, alongside drinking water provisions on South Core Banks during the summer months. Shackleford Banks offers limited restroom facilities to suit visitors’ needs.
Getting to Harkers Island is straightforward. Visitors should take U.S. Highway 70 and turn onto Harkers Island Road. The charming town of Beaufort is about a 17-mile drive from the island, providing any necessary provisions or entertainment. The nearest commercial airport is in New Bern, around an hour away, while Wilmington International Airport is approximately 2.5 hours by car. This accessibility makes Harkers Island an appealing choice for both camping and day trips to escape the everyday hustle.