CAPE LOOKOUT

Explore the Undeveloped Islands of Cape Lookout

A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages-there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches.

CORE BANKS

Core Banks are divided into North and South by Ophelia Inlet. South Core Banks is a short ferry-ride from the down-east town of Davis, and North Core Banks can be reached by ferry from the town of Atlantic.

Named after the Coree tribe, but now uninhabited, the banks provide opportunities for camping, fishing, shelling, birding in relative solitude for those who visit. There are cabins available for rent from the National Park Service with plumbing and gas stoves, but no electricity. There are no roads but vehicles are allowed and can drive on the sand. Four wheel drive recommended!

South Core Banks

The Cape Lookout lighthouse, Cape Lookout Historic Village, and Great Island cabins are all located on this southeast facing island. This island is separated from Shackleford by Barden Inlet and from North Core Banks by Ophelia Inlet.

North Core Banks

Portsmouth Village, the northernmost point of the Cape Lookout National Seashore is on southeast-facing Portsmouth Island, which can be reached from North Core Banks at low tide. North Core Banks also contains the Long Point cabins. It is separated from Ocracoke, part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, on the north end by the Ocracoke Inlet.