Beach Access Inlet And Channel Drives — Attraction in Emerald Isle

No lifeguard so use caution in surf.

This beach access is remarkable because it allows the hiker to get to the beach at one of the wilder points on the island. It is because of the wild nature of waters at this point that safety should be a number one priority. This is one of the beach access points that local governments must allow in order for citizens to access the waterways and oceans.

It is served by a small parking lot about two blocks away from the entry. There is another entry farther to the south that would be more suitable for anyone with wheeled vehicles. A wheelchair may be taken down to the end of the second trail, however, after the wooden walkway ends it reverts to wild sands.

The inlet for the sound is located at the point nearby this entry and beach so the current is very strong at high and low tides. At other times cross currents can be a hazard. Sharks frequent the waters. So do porpoise, dolphins and many fish and water fowl. Walking on the beach can lead to glad surprises with shells. During the winter months people may buy permits to drive on the beach. This is a plus for people that like to drive on the beach but presents a hazards and potential quality issue for any persons seeking solitude and that 'get-away' feeling.

The waters are clean and fishing is good during most of the year. There are no services at the end of the island. I suggest bringing water and food. During the warmer part of the year I suggest sunscreen or protective clothing.

There are nesting terns and other birds in the area and may be observed. Access to the nesting area is clearly marked. There is a lagoon and inlet at the end of the island that can present some swimming and wading entertainment as well as fishing but be careful of steep drop-offs...

Definitely a great place to check out on Emerald Isle. It's a beautiful place to watch the sun set, look for interesting shells, and just generally enjoy the beach. Be warned that the closest free parking (at the corner of Coast Guard Rd and State St) is about a 15 minute walk from the actual location; there also aren't really sidewalks on the way, so it ends up being 15 minutes of walking on the road. Also it's popular at sunset, so it can be difficult to even get parking (we had to wait at the lot for someone to leave). These issues are what causes me to give 4 stars instead of 5, but the location itself is a great place and still...

Incredibly peaceful and beautiful! Much different from just a couple miles down the beach...the sand even feels cleaner. Almost feel like you've been transported to a hidden gem beach somewhere where there's no disrespectful humans littering and ruining our beaches and oceans...and SOOOO many beautiful shells!!! Only downside is the parking situation and no restrooms or shower's to rinse off your feet after walking through the sand and pathways back to the road and another couple blocks to the...