Things to do nearZeke's Island Reserve
Zeke's Island Reserve is a pristine North Carolina coastal sanctuary offering undisturbed beaches, rich migratory bird habitat, and unspoiled estuarine wilderness near Southport.
Zeke's Island Reserve is part of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve system, protecting a complex of barrier islands, tidal creeks, and salt marshes at the mouth of the Cape Fear River. The reserve encompasses several distinct land areas connected by shallow water, including tidal flats that emerge at low tide and offer a rare glimpse into a functioning coastal ecosystem largely untouched by development.
Wildlife is the central draw here. Loggerhead sea turtles nest on the ocean-facing beaches in summer, while wading birds stalk the shallows year-round. The reserve sits along the Atlantic Flyway, making it a productive stop for migratory birders each spring and fall. Bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted in the surrounding waters. Visitors who explore by kayaking can navigate the interior creeks and get close to habitats that remain inaccessible on foot.
Nearby, Zekes Island and the surrounding reserve lands form a continuous stretch of protected coast that speaks to the broader conservation effort along this stretch of North Carolina shoreline. The town of Southport, just across the water, provides a convenient base with boat ramps and outfitter access. For anyone drawn to wild, quiet coastline, Zeke's Island Reserve offers an experience that is genuinely hard to find elsewhere on the Carolina coast.
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Chance of rainTips for visiting Zeke's Island Reserve
Visit at low tide to walk the connecting basin area and explore the tidal flats on foot, where shells and shorebirds are most abundant.
Bring a kayak or arrange a paddle tour, as the reserve has no road access and is best reached by water from Southport or Fort Fisher.
Pack insect repellent, especially from late spring through early fall, when mosquitoes and biting flies are active in the marsh.
Carry binoculars for birdwatching, as the reserve hosts migratory species along the Atlantic Flyway, including terns, pelicans, and oystercatchers.
Arrive early in the morning for the calmest water conditions and the best light for photography along the reserve's open beaches.
Top tours & experiences near Zeke's Island Reserve
Zeke's Island Kayak Rental
Explore Zeke's Island’s shifting marshes, tidal flats, and islands by kayak
Guided Kayak Tour of Zeke's Island
Paddle Zeke's Island's marshes, tidal flats, and wildlife habitat