Experience the rich coastal tradition of oyster farming on Masonboro Island with a three-hour oyster tour and tasting near Wrightsville Beach, NC. Learn, shuck, and savor fresh oysters while cruising scenic tidal waters.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and activity levels
Wildlife
History
Oyster farming in the Wrightsville Beach area dates back to the 19th century, playing a key role in regional food culture and economy.
Conservation
The farm follows sustainable aquaculture practices to protect coastal water quality and maintain healthy oyster populations.
Epic Excursions NC
Experience the rich coastal tradition of oyster farming on Masonboro Island with a three-hour oyster tour and tasting near Wrightsville Beach, NC. Learn, shuck, and savor fresh oysters while cruising scenic tidal waters.
Epic Excursions NC is a Wrightsville Beach–based outdoor adventure company offering guided boat tours, paddleboarding, surf lessons, rentals, and private charters along the southeastern North Carolina coast.
The company operates trips to Masonboro Island, Lea Island, and nearby coastal waters, and provides specialty experiences such as oyster farm tours with tastings, seafood boil excursions, paella outings, sunset cruises, and group events.
Equipment includes custom Ian Balding paddleboards for touring, racing, and surfing, with free delivery and pickup for board rentals. A 24-foot Carolina Skiff is featured for the Masonboro Island Tour and other island access trips. Epic Excursions NC also offers private surf charters that deliver surfers to offshore breaks by boat, and paddleboard charters that focus on marsh exploration and wildlife observation.
Dining and catering experiences are available through collaborations, including chef dinner cruises and beachside meals prepared by True Blue Butcher & Table. Camping and glamping options include bell tent rentals and island camping packages for overnight stays.
Guided tours emphasize local wildlife, shelling, and coastal history, with opportunities to spot dolphins, eagles, and nesting sea turtles on certain island trips. Oyster farm tours include guided rides, demonstrations of oyster cultivation, and freshly shucked oysters served on Masonboro Island. Trips range from short coastal cruises to multi-hour excursions and private charters tailored for families, couples, and groups.
Epic Excursions NC operates from Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and offers booking options for public scheduled trips and private reservations. Booking is available online and by phone through the company directly.
Location
Wrightsville Beach, NC
Coastal departure point
Tours Offered
18 trips
Island, surf, and private charters
Vessel
24ft Carolina Skiff
Featured on Masonboro Island Tour
Equipment
Ian Balding boards
Surf, race and touring boards available
Check availability and reserve a date for surf lessons, oyster tours, or private charters with Epic Excursions NC.
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen and a hat—the boat ride and oyster tasting take place in direct sunlight for several hours.
Bring a light jacket
Mornings and evenings can be breezy on the water, especially in spring and fall—layer up for comfort.
Prepare for seasickness
If you’re sensitive to boat motion, consider anti-nausea remedies as the tour takes place on open water.
Dress for casual outdoor activity
Non-slip shoes and comfortable clothing make shucking easier and boating safer.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during the boat ride and oyster tasting sessions under direct sunlight.
summer
Hat with brim
Provides shade and comfort on the exposed boat deck.
summer
Light jacket
Keeps you warm during cooler, breezy early mornings or late afternoons.
spring
Waterproof footwear
Helps keep feet dry and comfortable during boarding and shucking on wet surfaces.