Guide to Islands

What to Know

• Make safety your top priority! Check Rip Current advisories on NOAA's beach forecast. Review swimming tips before you jump into the water!
• Remember, Cape Lookout National Seashore does not have lifeguards on duty. Currents, tide changes, winds, waves, and other factors should be considered when choosing if and where to swim
• Water bottle filling stations can be found at the Harkers Island Visitor Center and near the restrooms by Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

Accessibility

• Beach wheelchairs are available at the Harkers Island Visitor Center and near the restrooms by Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

 

South Core Banks

• 24 miles of beach.
• Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Keeper's Quarters, and Cape Village Historic District are places to explore while on South Core Banks.

Amenities:

• South Core Banks has restrooms, public showers, and drinking water available seasonally. During the summer months, drinking water is available at the restrooms near the lighthouse and from a spigot on the back road near the boardwalk to the beach. At the cabin camps, drinking water is available in the public restrooms.These sources of water are turned off during the coldest part of the winter to prevent damage to pipes due to freezing.

 

Milky Way above North Core Banks.

NPS Photo/S.Godin

North Core Banks Camping

• 22 miles beach.
• Spectacular night skies for stargazing.

Amenities:

• Restrooms and public shower facilities are available seasonally in the former Long Point Cabin area. There is currently no available drinking water on the island.

 

Shackleford Banks horses running along the beach.

NPS Photo/N. Toering

Shackleford Banks

• 8 miles of primitive beaches available to tent campers.
• Herd of about 100 wild horses call this island home. Saefly observe the Shackleford Banks Horses by maintaining at least 50 feet away from them.

Amenities:

• Shackleford Banks has restrooms open seasonally at Wade Shore. Water is not available on the island.