Masonboro Island Reserve Guide
Escape to Untamed Beauty: Discover Masonboro Island Reserve Guide
Masonboro Island Reserve is a pristine, undeveloped barrier island just south of Wrightsville Beach, offering a unique escape into nature. This uninhabited island is a haven for wildlife and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Imagine miles of untouched beaches, rolling dunes, and thriving salt marshes, all waiting to be explored. Masonboro Island has remained largely unchanged for centuries, a testament to its protected status. It's part of the North Carolina Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve system, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The island's history is intertwined with the natural forces that shape it, from the ebb and flow of tides to the powerful storms that occasionally reshape its coastline. Native American tribes once utilized the island's resources, and during the Civil War, it served as a strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. Visitors to Masonboro Island can enjoy a variety of activities. Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular ways to reach the island and explore its waterways. Once ashore, you can hike along the beach, search for seashells, birdwatch, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Fishing is also a popular activity, both from the beach and from boats. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls Masonboro home, including nesting sea turtles, shorebirds, and various marine species. Remember to pack out everything you pack in and leave no trace of your visit to help preserve this natural treasure.
Transportation
Access to Masonboro Island is primarily by boat. Several local companies offer boat tours, rentals, and water taxi services from Wrightsville Beach and nearby marinas. Private boats can also be used, but be aware of shallow areas and changing tides. There is no bridge or road access to the island.