Knotts Island, North Carolina: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Knotts Island is one of the few places in America where you can take a free 45-minute ferry ride to reach your destination? This marshy peninsula, shared by North Carolina and Virginia, offers a rare glimpse into coastal life untouched by commercial tourism. With the Currituck Sound on one side and Back Bay on the other, this hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds of nearby Outer Banks.

Getting to Knotts Island

There are two main ways to reach Knotts Island, North Carolina. The first option is by car, traveling through Virginia Beach on Princess Anne Road. The second and more scenic route is via the free ferry service operated by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The ferry runs between the Currituck mainland and Knotts Island several times daily, offering beautiful views of the sound during the 45-minute crossing.

If you’re flying in, the closest major airports are Norfolk International Airport (about 45 miles away) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (about 190 miles away). From either airport, you’ll need to rent a car to complete your journey to this secluded destination.

Best Time to Visit Knotts Island

Fall brings spectacular colors and migrating waterfowl to Knotts Island

Knotts Island enjoys a mild coastal climate, making it a year-round destination. However, each season offers something unique. Spring (April-May) brings comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Summer (June-August) is perfect for water activities, though it can be humid with occasional afternoon thunderstorms.

Fall (September-November) is arguably the best time to visit Knotts Island, North Carolina. The weather is pleasant, mosquitoes are less prevalent, and the island becomes a haven for migrating waterfowl. Winter (December-February) is quiet and peaceful, ideal for birdwatching as thousands of tundra swans, snow geese, and ducks make the surrounding waters their seasonal home.

The annual Peach Festival in June is a highlight for many visitors, featuring local produce, crafts, and community activities that showcase the island’s charm and hospitality.

Getting Around Knotts Island

A vehicle is essential for exploring all corners of Knotts Island

Knotts Island is relatively small at about seven miles long and two miles wide, but having your own transportation is essential. There’s no public transit system on the island, and attractions are spread out enough that walking between them isn’t practical for most visitors.

If you’re arriving via the ferry, you can bring your own vehicle aboard. If you’re flying in, renting a car is highly recommended. The roads on Knotts Island are generally well-maintained but rural in character, with scenic drives through farmland, forests, and along the water’s edge.

Where to Stay on Knotts Island

Waterfront cottages offer peaceful views and direct access to Currituck Sound

Accommodation options on Knotts Island are limited but charming. You won’t find large hotels or resorts here, which is part of the appeal for those seeking an authentic experience. Instead, vacation rentals and private homes make up most of the lodging options.

Waterfront cottages along Currituck Sound or Back Bay offer stunning views and often come with docks for fishing or launching kayaks. Inland options tend to be more affordable while still providing a peaceful retreat. Most rentals come fully equipped with kitchens, as dining options on the island are limited.

For those who prefer more conventional accommodations, the nearby mainland towns of Currituck and Virginia Beach offer numerous hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts within a reasonable driving distance.

Top Attractions on Knotts Island

Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge

Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge covers nearly 8,000 acres of pristine habitat

Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge is the crown jewel of Knotts Island, covering nearly 8,000 acres of marshes, forests, and open water. The refuge provides critical habitat for migratory birds, particularly during fall and winter. Visitors can explore several hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

The Great Marsh Trail is particularly popular, featuring an accessible boardwalk that extends into the marsh. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars to spot tundra swans, snow geese, and numerous duck species. The refuge also hosts occasional guided tours and special events throughout the year.

Knotts Island Market

The Knotts Island Market has been serving the community since 1855

Operating since 1855, the Knotts Island Market is more than just a store—it’s a community hub and living piece of history. This charming general store offers groceries, fishing supplies, local products, and an impressive selection of wine and beer. It’s also where locals gather to play dominoes and exchange news.

Visitors should stop by to pick up supplies, chat with friendly staff who know the island inside and out, and perhaps purchase some local honey or produce. The market is an excellent resource for information about current conditions and events happening around the island.

Martin’s Vineyard and Orchards

Martin’s Vineyard offers wine tastings and seasonal fruit picking

Martin’s Vineyard is a delightful surprise on Knotts Island, producing wines from locally grown grapes. The vineyard also doubles as an orchard where visitors can pick their own peaches, apples, and other seasonal fruits. Wine tastings are available in a charming rustic setting, with knowledgeable staff explaining the unique growing conditions that influence their wines.

The vineyard hosts special events throughout the year, including the popular Peach Festival in June. Even if you’re not a wine enthusiast, the beautiful grounds and fresh produce make this a worthwhile stop during your visit to Knotts Island, North Carolina.

Things to Do on Knotts Island

Water Activities

Kayaking the peaceful waters around Knotts Island offers close encounters with nature

The waters surrounding Knotts Island provide endless opportunities for recreation. Kayaking and canoeing are popular ways to explore the intricate waterways and marshes, with several public launch points available. Fishing is excellent year-round, with species like bass, crappie, and perch abundant in the freshwater areas, while the saltier waters yield flounder, drum, and trout.

Boating enthusiasts can bring their own vessels or inquire about rentals from mainland Currituck. The sheltered waters of Currituck Sound make for pleasant sailing and motorboating, with numerous coves and inlets to discover. Swimming is possible during summer months, though most locals prefer the ocean beaches of nearby Carova or Virginia Beach for serious swimming.

Hunting and Wildlife Photography

The abundant wildlife makes Knotts Island a paradise for nature photographers

Knotts Island has a rich hunting heritage, particularly for waterfowl. During hunting season (typically fall and winter), the area attracts sportsmen from across the country. Several guided hunting services operate on and around the island, providing blinds, boats, and local expertise. All hunting requires appropriate licenses and adherence to state regulations.

For those who prefer to shoot with cameras, the same abundant wildlife offers exceptional photography opportunities. Dawn and dusk provide magical lighting across the marshes, and patient observers can capture images of deer, foxes, otters, and countless bird species in their natural habitats.

Cycling and Scenic Drives

The flat terrain and minimal traffic make Knotts Island perfect for cycling

The flat terrain and minimal traffic make Knotts Island ideal for cycling. Bring your own bikes or inquire about rentals from mainland Currituck. A loop around the island covers approximately 15 miles of scenic roads passing farms, marshes, forests, and waterfront areas. The main roads are paved, while some side roads are packed gravel but still suitable for most bicycles.

For those who prefer exploring by car, the same routes offer a pleasant drive with numerous spots to pull over and enjoy the views. The road to the Virginia border provides particularly scenic vistas across Back Bay, while the southern routes offer perspectives of Currituck Sound and the distant Outer Banks.

Where to Eat on Knotts Island

Fresh seafood is a highlight of dining near Knotts Island

Dining options on Knotts Island are limited but authentic. The Knotts Island Market offers deli sandwiches, snacks, and basic groceries for picnics or self-catering. For a wider selection of restaurants, visitors typically head to mainland Currituck or nearby Virginia Beach, both within a reasonable drive.

Many vacation rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. This is particularly appealing given the availability of fresh local produce, seafood, and wines. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the ultimate farm-to-table experience by cooking their own catch.

During the Peach Festival and other special events, food trucks and vendors often provide additional dining options. Local residents sometimes operate seasonal food stands selling produce, baked goods, or seafood, though these operate on irregular schedules.

Practical Tips for Visiting Knotts Island

Check the ferry schedule before planning your day trips from Knotts Island

When visiting Knotts Island, North Carolina, it’s wise to come prepared. Cell phone service can be spotty, so download maps and information in advance. The free ferry runs on a set schedule (typically 6 trips daily), so plan your mainland excursions accordingly. During summer and holidays, arrive early as the ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are no banks or ATMs on the island, so bring sufficient cash. While the Knotts Island Market accepts credit cards, some smaller vendors may not. Gas up your vehicle before arriving, as there are no gas stations on the island. For medical emergencies, the nearest facilities are in mainland Currituck or Virginia Beach.

Bug spray is essential during warmer months, particularly for exploring marshy areas. Sunscreen, hats, and water bottles are recommended year-round for outdoor activities. Weather can change quickly on the coast, so check forecasts and bring appropriate layers.

Knotts Island is located in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, bordering Virginia

Why Knotts Island Should Be Your Next Destination

The spectacular sunsets alone make Knotts Island worth visiting

Knotts Island, North Carolina offers a rare opportunity to experience coastal life as it once was—unhurried, connected to nature, and genuinely authentic. While it may lack the commercial attractions of better-known destinations, it compensates with breathtaking natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s increasingly hard to find.

Whether you’re kayaking through misty marshes at dawn, sampling local wines as the sun sets over Currituck Sound, or simply enjoying the rhythm of island life, Knotts Island provides a welcome respite from the ordinary. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect to reconnect—with nature, with simpler pleasures, and perhaps with yourself.

Pack your binoculars, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets. The ferry is waiting to transport you to an experience you won’t soon forget.