Welcome to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina! This region includes the barrier islands and estuaries of Carteret County and is buffeted from the Atlantic Ocean by white "crystallized" sandy beaches. The barrier islands of Bogue Banks, Shackleford Banks, and Core Banks establish the outer boundary between the Atlantic Ocean and an enormous expanse of sounds, marshlands and estuary preserves, including the Rachel Carson Estuarine Reserve in Beaufort.

The Crystal Coast environment offers an excellent opportunity to explore nature, and sea kayaking provides an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation to enhance your wildlife, marine life, and shore bird observations. Paddle your kayak next to the horses grazing along Shackleford Banks or Carrot Island.... Watch dolphins playing and feeding within inches of your kayak.... See nature up-close and personal, within the unique habitats of the species that comprise this ecosystem.

A Northern Gannet takes off from his watery runway in search of "dinner" offshore from Shackleford Banks.

A lazy day at Shackleford Banks

Spring and Fall migration seasons along the Crystal Coast provide a great time to observe our feathery friends up close and personal during a kayak tour. Our shores abound with distinctive shorebirds: from great blue herons to black-bellied plovers. Join us for one of our bird-watching kayak tours along the pristine shores and estuaries of the Crystal Coast.

Local Carrot Island residents