Harkers Island

An island adventure worth the trip!
The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center is now occupying their permanent location "at the end of the road" on Harkers Island. A visit to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center is a "must do" for your vacation itinerary when visiting the Crystal Coast. The Museum's porch welcomes you to spend time with local carvers Thursday through Sunday. Learn more about the hunting and fishing traditions of Down East. They are open year 'round, seven days a week, closing only for Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Hours are 10:00am - 5:00pm, Monday - Saturday; 2:00pm - 5:00pm on Sunday. There is no admission charge and groups are welcome (please call ahead). Visit www.coresound.com for more information.

Right next door to the museum you'll find Cape Lookout National Seahore's Visitor Center. Make plans to explore this national treasure where you'll discover remote beaches, wild horses, and the infamous Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Cape Lookout National Seashore is open 24 hours 365 days a year.  Operating hours for visitor centers and other services vary throughout the year. The Harkers Island Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed December 25 and January 1). Light Station Visitor Center & Keepers' Quarters Museum are open April to November from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Portsmouth Village Visitor Center is open from April to November (hours vary). Park administrative offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm (closed all government holidays). Log on to http://www.nps.gov/calo for more information.

Harkers Island is located 17 miles east of Beaufort. Follow Highway 70 to the Harkers Island turnoff. Cape Lookout National Seashore signs also lead to Harkers Island. Museum will be on the left as you enter Cape Lookout National Seashore.