Located on the North Carolina coast, the heart of the vast Hammocks Beach State Park is the very popular Bear Island. This wild, undeveloped, about 3-mile-long barrier island is a haven for weekenders, who come to enjoy the wide sandy beach stretched between massive ancient dunes and the Atlantic ocean. The island offers a number of simple, rustic campsites and a small concession and picnic area. The park has a well-organized visitors center, which also serves as the gateway to the island and as the port for the ferry service as well as canoes or kayaks. You can rent them here or paddle to the island in your own kayak or canoe. They are the best way to explore the trails through the marshes and the island's maritime forest. The island is home to a number of nesting shorebirds and endangered sea turtles.

1572 Hammocks Beach Road, Swansboro, NC 28584, Phone: 910-326-4881

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