Although not abundant, State and National Parks close to your Emerald Isle beach house provide a glimpse of history as well as the opportunity to explore the great outdoors.
State Parks Nearby
Hammocks Beach State Park is a short trip across the water from Emerald Isle vacation houses. Bear Island is accessible only by water which means no crowds to contend with. Revel in the solitude of a tranquil beach and discover Atlantic marine life in tidal pools tucked into the mudflats. You can reach the park from Hammocks Beach State Park Ferry terminal, water taxi or private boat. Park hours are September through May 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., June through August 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fort Macon State Park is surrounded by water on three sides, making it a great destination for sand, sun and surf. With easy access the beaches here are busier, but still as beautiful. Take time to explore the rich history of the park by visiting the historic Civil War fort built in 1826 to guard against attack. The fort is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and offers guided tours. Park hours vary throughout the year; call the park office at (252) 726-3775 for details.
National Parks Close to Emerald Isle
A must-do while staying at Emerald Isle beach houses is a trip to Shackleford Banks. This 2,500-acre barrier reef situated across from Beaufort Inlet from Atlantic Beach is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and home to the Shackleford Horses. These Spanish Mustangs are surrounded by mystery as to how they came to arrive on the island. According to legend they swam ashore to safety after a shipwreck. Descendants of a 400-year-old line of Spanish horses, they number slightly more than 100 and their activity is monitored closely by Park Services. These golden-maned wild horses roam freely on their namesake island and although sightings are rare visitors occasionally catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural surroundings.
An hour drive east from Emerald Isle is the starting point to reach Cape Lookout National Seashore on Harkers Island. The only area accessible by car is the Visitor Center at the eastern end of the island. Accessible by boat only, several authorized ferry services are available ranging from 16-passenger flat bottom skiffs to larger ferries with an 80-passenger capacity to shuttle visitors. The ride takes you 3 miles off-shore where you're dropped off either on the beach or dock, depending on the vessel. From here you can explore miles of remote beaches that are excellent for shelling. Discover the rich history of the area at the Cape Lookout Light Station. Visit Portsmouth Village where in its heyday in 1860 was home to more than 600 residents. A church, post office, school and life-saving station remain standing as testament to its existence.
Visitors Tip
The Tourism Office located on U.S. Highway 58 at Cameron Langston Bridge to Emerald Isle is the best place to find information on getting to and from State and National parks. Stop by or call (252) 393-3100.
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