Cape Lookout National Seashore protects 56 miles of coastline along North Carolina's Crystal Coast, spanning from the northern Ocracoke Inlet to the southeastern Beaufort Inlet. The National Park Service-managed seashore encompasses the coastlines of the Shackleford Banks and North and South Core Banks barrier islands, originally designated in 1966. It is best known as the home of the Banker Ponies, a population of wild horses that are believed to be descended from shipwrecked Spanish mustangs that arrived in the region in the 16th century. Visitors can explore the historic 18th-century Portsmouth Village, preserved as a ghost town and open to travelers on foot or as part of ATV tours. The historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse is open for tours during the summer months, located on South Core Banks. Ample opportunities for shelling, fishing, birdwatching, and water sports are offered throughout the summer months, along with overnight stay opportunities at the seashore's primitive campsites.

Cape Lookout Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531, Phone: 252-728-2250

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