Did you know that over half of Cedar Island is designated as a protected National Wildlife Refuge, making it one of the East Coast’s most pristine coastal environments? Located at the edge of North Carolina and serving as a gateway between the Crystal Coast and the Outer Banks, this hidden gem offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from crowded tourist destinations.
Cedar Island: Where Nature and Tranquility Meet
Cedar Island sits at the crossroads of North Carolina’s most beautiful coastal regions. With the Pamlico Sound on one side and Core Sound on the other, this relatively undiscovered destination feels miles away from the hustle of everyday life. Unlike busier coastal towns, you won’t find amusement parks, shopping malls, or nightlife scenes here. Instead, Cedar Island offers wildlife, water in every direction, and unlimited peace and quiet.
Perfect for slower-paced vacations centered around fishing, shelling, kayaking, boating, and breathtaking sunsets, Cedar Island provides an authentic coastal experience where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
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Getting to Cedar Island
Cedar Island is accessible by car via Highway 70 and then Highway 12, which runs directly through the island. The journey itself is part of the experience, as you’ll travel along the scenic Outer Banks Scenic Byway, one of only 150 National Scenic Byways in the country.
For many visitors, Cedar Island serves as a gateway to the Outer Banks via the Cedar Island-Ocracoke Ferry. This 2.5-hour ferry ride across the Pamlico Sound connects Cedar Island to Ocracoke Island, allowing travelers to continue their journey north to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Ferry Tip: The Cedar Island-Ocracoke Ferry operates 3-4 crossings daily. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during summer months. Visit the NC Ferry System website for schedules and to book tickets.
Best Time to Visit Cedar Island
Cedar Island enjoys a mild coastal climate, making it accessible year-round. However, each season offers a different experience:
Summer (June-August)
Peak season with warm temperatures perfect for swimming and water activities. Expect daytime highs in the 80s°F. This is also the busiest time for ferry traffic to Ocracoke.
Fall (September-November)
Arguably the best time to visit with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent fishing. The fall bird migration also makes this prime time for birdwatching.
Winter (December-February)
Quiet season with mild temperatures (40s-50s°F). Perfect for peaceful exploration, wildlife viewing, and having beaches almost entirely to yourself.
Spring (March-May)
Wonderful season as wildlife becomes more active, temperatures warm, and wildflowers bloom. Spring migration brings diverse bird species to the refuge.
Top Things to Do on Cedar Island, North Carolina
Cedar Island’s charm lies in its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Here are the best activities to enjoy during your visit:
1. Explore Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge
The Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge is the island’s crown jewel, comprising approximately 11,000 acres of brackish marshlands and 3,480 acres of pocosin and woodland habitat. Established in 1964, this protected area offers excellent opportunities for:
- Kayaking through pristine marshes
- Birdwatching (especially during migration seasons)
- Fishing in the rich estuarine waters
- Hiking on rustic trails
- Wildlife photography
Access points to the refuge can be found along Highway 12, which cuts directly through the protected area. While there’s no formal visitor center, the natural beauty speaks for itself.
2. Fishing Adventures
Cedar Island is a paradise for anglers, with abundant fishing opportunities in the surrounding Pamlico and Core Sounds. You can fish from the shoreline, a kayak, or charter a boat for a more extensive expedition. Common catches include flounder, red drum, speckled trout, and blue crab.
Several local tackle shops provide bait, gear, and valuable local knowledge about the best fishing spots. For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a charter with a local captain who knows these waters intimately.
3. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
With miles of estuaries, canals, and open sound waters, Cedar Island offers exceptional paddling experiences for all skill levels. Launch points are available near the ferry terminal and at several spots along the island’s shoreline. Paddling through the quiet marshes provides intimate encounters with local wildlife and breathtaking views impossible to access by land.
Paddling Tip: For beginners, the protected waters near the ferry terminal offer calmer conditions. More experienced paddlers can venture into the marsh channels or along the sound shorelines. Always check weather conditions and tides before heading out.
4. Shelling and Beachcombing
The shorelines of Cedar Island offer excellent beachcombing opportunities, with the Pamlico and Core Sounds delivering a variety of weathered shells to the local beaches. Walk along the quiet shoreline and discover unique treasures washed up by the tides.
For even better shelling, take a ferry or private boat to the nearby Cape Lookout National Seashore, renowned as one of North Carolina’s premier shelling destinations.
5. Take the Ferry to Ocracoke Island
The Cedar Island-Ocracoke ferry is both a practical transportation link and a delightful experience in itself. The 2.5-hour journey across the Pamlico Sound offers stunning views and potential wildlife sightings, including dolphins and seabirds.
Once on Ocracoke Island, you can explore its historic village, pristine beaches, and the Ocracoke Lighthouse before returning to Cedar Island or continuing your journey along the Outer Banks.
Ferry Information: The ferry costs approximately $15 per vehicle and operates year-round with 3-4 daily crossings. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the NC Ferry System.
Where to Stay on Cedar Island
Accommodation options on Cedar Island are limited but authentic, offering a true taste of coastal living:
Vacation Rentals
Several waterfront homes and cottages are available for rent, many with private docks and spectacular water views. These offer the most authentic Cedar Island experience.
Cedar Island Motel
A small, family-owned motel near the ferry terminal provides basic but comfortable accommodations with convenient access to the water.
Campgrounds
For outdoor enthusiasts, several campgrounds offer RV hookups and tent sites, many with waterfront locations perfect for fishing and kayaking.
Find Your Perfect Cedar Island Stay
Book early, especially during summer months, as accommodations are limited.
Dining on Cedar Island
Cedar Island’s dining scene is small but satisfying, with a focus on fresh seafood and local flavors:
- Cedar Island Restaurant – Located near the ferry terminal, offering fresh seafood, sandwiches, and Southern classics.
- Seafood markets – Purchase the day’s catch directly from local fishermen to prepare at your vacation rental.
- Nearby options – For more dining variety, the towns of Beaufort and Morehead City are about 30-45 minutes away, offering numerous restaurants and pubs.
Local Tip: Don’t miss trying the fresh oysters from nearby waters, especially during fall and winter months when they’re at their best.
Nearby Attractions
While Cedar Island itself offers plenty to explore, several noteworthy attractions are within easy reach:
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Located just across Core Sound, this pristine barrier island shoreline offers excellent shelling, fishing, and beach activities. Take a private ferry from nearby Atlantic or Davis to explore Portsmouth Island and the historic Portsmouth Village, an abandoned island community preserved since the 1970s.
Core Sound Waterfowl Museum
Located on nearby Harkers Island, this museum showcases the unique culture and heritage of the Down East region. Exhibits include decoy carving, quilting demonstrations, and the Willow Pond Trail through maritime forest.
Shackleford Banks Wild Horses
Part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, Shackleford Banks is home to wild horses that have roamed freely for centuries. Take a boat tour to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
Practical Tips for Visiting Cedar Island
What should I pack for Cedar Island?
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water shoes (helpful for navigating shallow sound waters), binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a camera. If planning water activities, pack appropriate gear. A light jacket is useful even in summer for evening breezes.
Are there grocery stores on Cedar Island?
Services are limited on Cedar Island. There’s a small convenience store, but for substantial groceries, consider shopping in larger towns before arriving. If staying in a vacation rental, bringing supplies is recommended.
Is Cedar Island suitable for families with children?
Yes! The shallow, calm waters of Pamlico Sound are perfect for young swimmers. Wildlife viewing, fishing, and beachcombing are activities children typically enjoy. However, there are no commercial attractions specifically designed for children.
How’s the cell phone coverage?
Cell service can be spotty in some areas of Cedar Island. Download maps and information before arriving, and don’t rely solely on cell service for navigation or emergency communication.
Experience the Unspoiled Beauty of Cedar Island
Cedar Island offers a rare opportunity to experience coastal North Carolina in its most authentic form. Without the commercial development found in many beach destinations, it provides a genuine connection to nature, local culture, and the rhythms of coastal life.
Whether you’re casting a line at sunset, paddling through serene marshes, or simply watching birds soar over the wildlife refuge, Cedar Island invites you to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of this special place. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience that will call you back time and again.
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