HARKERS ISLAND
Explore Harkers Island, NC
Harkers Island, NC, is a peaceful community just 30 miles away from Emerald Isle. Just take US-70 to Harkers Island Road, which will lead you straight there.
Harkers Island is situated within the heritage area known as Down East and home to the coast’s most popular tourist attraction, Cape Lookout Lighthouse and National Seashore. You will be amazed by the area’s rich history, traditions and culture. Harkers Island may be small, but there’s plenty to see and do.
Things to Do in Harkers Island
Harkers Island is home to the Cape Lookout National Seashore and Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center. Hop aboard a ferry from Harkers Island for an up-close view of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Spend the day shelling, fishing, swimming, crabbing or climb to the top of the lighthouse for some of the most amazing views of the Crystal Coast. One of the most popular draws to this region are Shackleford Banks, part of the national seashore, where you can get a glimpse of the wild horses that have roamed the barrier islands for many years.
Make sure to stop by the Harkers Island Visitor Center prior to visiting Cape Lookout for an interactive map of the national seashore and other park materials, in addition to a kid’s corner and gift shop.
The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum is another popular attraction found on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. The museum features wonderful exhibits that highlight the region’s distinctive boat building and decoy crafting. Here you will find carvings, waterfowl art, music, storytelling, boat building and other artifacts that tell the story of this unique area. Explore the maritime forest that surrounds the museum on the Willow Pond Trail or plan a visit during December when the museum hosts its annual Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend & Decoy Festival.
