Cape Lookout National Seashore

The seashore is a 56 mile long section of the Outer Banks of North Carolina running from Ocracoke Inlet on the northeast to Beaufort Inlet on the southeast. The three undeveloped barrier islands which make up the seashore - North Core Banks, South Core Banks and Shackleford Banks - may seem barren and isolated but they offer many natural and historical features that can make a visit very rewarding

131 Charles St.
Harkers Island, NC 28531
(252) 728-2250 - Headquarters

By Car
Cape Lookout National Seashore's Visitor Center is located on the eastern end of Harkers Island, approximately 20 mi (30 km) east of Beaufort, NC and 30 mi (50 km)south of the Cedar Island terminus of the North Carolina State Ferry route from Ocracoke Island to Cedar Island.

From Beaufort: Take U.S. 70 east to Harkers Island Road (SR 1332/SR 1335).

From Cedar Island: Take SR 12 south past the Atlantic turnoff to US 70 west. Continue on US 70 to Harkers Island Road (SR1332/SR 1335) .

Follow Harkers Island Road until it terminates. On the left is the two-story visitor center.

By Plane
Cape Lookout National Seashore is accessible only through private ferries leaving from Harkers Island, Davis, Atlantic, Beaufort, Morehead City and Ocracoke or your personal boat.

Ferries leaving from the communities of Harkers Island, Beaufort, Morehead City and Ocracoke, NC carry passengers only. The ferries from Davis and Atlantic, NC can transport passengers and 4-wheel drive vehicles. For additional information call (252)728-2250, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM ET. After hours a recording will give you a list of the ferry operators.

Getting Around
Most people walk although personal 4-wheel drive and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are allowed on North Core and South Core Banks subject to State of North Carolina laws. All vehicle operators, ATVs included, must have a valid drivers license in their possession while driving a vehicle in the park. For those without a vehicle there are limited privately operated beach shuttle services available during the summer months.

Summers are warm, humid and buggy. Winter temperatures can go below freezing. Fall and spring have low humidity and are generally mild. Rainy periods occur throughout the year. Wear comfortable sportswear in season with a hat for the sun and good walking shoes that can take the sand and salt water.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Boating
• Camping
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hunting
• Swimming
• Wildlife Viewing
• Bird Watching
• Stargazing
• Kayaking

Recommended Activities
Sightseeing at Portsmouth Village, Lighthouse Complex; observing plants and wildlife on all three islands; picnicking, shelling, fishing and sunbathing. Swimmers should be aware that there are no lifeguards. All swimming is at your own risk.