Island Express Ferry Service LLC is the only authorized concessionaire to drop off at Cape Lookout Lighthouse and Shackleford Banks!

We provide park visitors with great service while facilitating visitor understanding and appreciation for the park.

  • Ride in new, fast, and comfortable ferries alongside all local experienced captains and crew.
  • Experience the beauty of the Crystal Coast with sparkling clear waters and pristine beaches.
  • Treasure hunt for shells–Whelks, Scotch Bonnets, Conchs and many more!
  • See the wild horses of Shackleford Banks or go hiking, fishing, and swimming.
  • Fun for the WHOLE family! Leave the stress of the mainland behind.

Camping at Cape Lookout? Island Express Ferry is your official connection to camping areas on Cape Lookout National Seashore!

Birders - Island Express is your connection to the best bird watching and photography areas on the Crystal Coast.

NPS Enthusiasts - Island Express' Harkers Island location is adjacent to the Cape Lookout Visitors Center. Take a short ride to the Cape Lookout Lighthouse and get your NPS Passport stamp.

Based in the town of Beaufort, and offering departures from both Beaufort and nearby Harkers Island, Island Express Ferry Service serves as the link between the communities of the Crystal Coast and the spectacularly beautiful and isolated barrier islands of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Accommodating passengers who want to explore the miles of pristine beaches, exceptional fishing and shelling, wild horses, and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Island Express Ferry Service serves as the gateway for one of the most unforgettable adventures along the North Carolina coast.

 

The Cape Lookout National Seashore is only accessible by a boat or privately run ferry, and Island Express Ferry Service has been named one of the best service providers for day trips to this desolate shoreline. Each crossing takes less than an hour, and once on the shore, visitors can take in gorgeous beaches and vistas in every direction. Reservations can be made online before a trip, and passengers will cross in comfortable and spacious covered vessels that are designed to make a smooth trek across the sound. Breathtaking from start to finish, a ride onboard the Island Express Ferry Service opens up a whole new perspective of the gorgeous and isolated Crystal Coast shoreline.  

 

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The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores

The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores

The Inn at Pine Knoll Shoresoffers oceanfront rooms, direct access to the beach, sun, sand, surf and breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean. Always just a few steps from the ocean. Whether you are here for business, pleasure or simply want to decompress, the oceanfront rooms at the The Inn offer all the comforts of home. Featuring free WiFi, a restaurant, and an outdoor pool, The Inn offers accommodations in Pine Knoll Shores. Free private parking is available on site. Every room at this hotel is air-conditioned and has a flat-screen TV. You will find a coffee machine in the room. All rooms have a private bathroom. Extras include free toiletries and a hairdryer. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. You can play pool at the hotel. Havelock is 13 miles from Clamdigger Inn, and New Bern is 31 miles away. The nearest airport is Albert J. Ellis Airport, 45 miles from the property. This property also has one of the top-rated locations in Pine Knoll Shores! Guests are happier about it compared to other properties in the area.

Casa San Carlo Italian Restaurant

Casa San Carlo Italian Restaurant

Casa San Carlo is a traditional Italian cuisine venue, serving the best dishes and drinks from authentic Italian recipes. Located in Morehead City, and a short drive from both Beaufort and Atlantic Beach. Come enjoy an a uthentic Italian meal in the ambience of an Italian bistro. Since 1992 Chef Carlo is proud to be serving fine Italian dishes for more than 25 years!Our universally comforatable atmosphere welcomes everyone inside to enjoy an authentic Italian meal. Family owned and operated owner Chef Carlo Cappiello sees that every patron leaves the restaurant, both full and happy.

AB Watersport Adventures

AB Watersport Adventures

There are literally endless ways to enjoy the water along the Crystal Coast, and AB Watersport Adventures has you covered. Evplore the beautiful waters of the intercoatal waterways on one of our Jet Skis. For a more educational adventure we offer a jet ski tour to the Capeloout Lighthouse. We also offer rental boats so your family can enjoy one of the Crystal Coat's beautiful barrier islands. Located along the Atlantic Beach Causeway, and easy to reach for folks staying along the barrier island as well as Morehead City, this convenient and accommodating watersports company serves as a launching point for a host of fun-filled days on the Southern Outer Banks.