Discover Harkers Island
Originally inhabited by the Coree tribe and eventually purchased in 1730 by Ebenezer Harker, for whom the island takes its name, Harkers Island is a key part of the Crystal Coast’s appeal. If you’re currently looking at new homes in Beaufort NC, look no further than Beau Coast West, which offers easy access to plenty of history, activities, and natural beauty in Beaufort and in nearby draws like Harkers Island.
Harkers Island is a quaint, historic Down East fishing village with its own unique coastal Carolina charm. Plus, it’s home to the ferry that takes visitors to the Cape Lookout National Seashore, the coast’s most popular tourist attraction.
The Core Sound takes its name from the Coree Native Americans, and the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center is a great place to explore the history of Harkers Island. The focus is on the island’s boatbuilding, decoy carving, and waterfowl hunting traditions that have been passed down through many generations. You’ll enjoy exploring the collection of carvings, coastal artifacts, folk art, and even storytelling. In addition, the museum’s elevated deck offers stunning views of the Core Sound, and the Willow Pond Trail takes you on a tranquil walk through the salt marsh and maritime forest for a chance to appreciate the beauty up close.
As well as seeing the hand-carved decoys being made at the museum, there’s a wonderful festival in December, the Core Sound Waterfowl Weekend & Decoy Festival. With live demonstrations and traditional music, the festival is also a great chance to enjoy the local seafood and coastal cuisine. Fresh Core Sound shrimp, clams, crabs, and oysters can be enjoyed at the festival, as well as throughout the year at seafood shacks and fish markets.
The biggest draw, though, is Cape Lookout, which can be reached by a short ferry ride from Harkers Island. Before you head out, be sure to stop by the Harkers Island National Park Service Visitor Center. It’s a great place to learn more about Cape Lookout before your trip, with educational exhibits, interactive maps, and even a discovery corner ideal for kids, not to mention the gift shop.
Once at Cape Lookout, you can get a closer view of the 200+ year old iconic black-and-white diamond-patterned lighthouse located at the southern tip of the Cape Lookout National Seashore, one of several barrier islands stretching from the Ocracoke Inlet to the Beaufort Inlet. This area is uninhabited and unspoiled, making it an ideal place to take in a wonderful array of wildlife, birds and even the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. Other popular activities include looking for North Carolina’s state shell, the Scotch Bonnet, as well as swimming, fishing, and more.
When you choose one of the luxury new homes in Beaufort NC at Beau Coast West, you’re never far from the region’s wonderful history, beauty, and fun. To learn more about our welcoming community, reach out and contact us today!
