Explore Lea Island: Untouched Nature & Beachcombing near Wrightsville Beach
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves gentle walking on sand and flat terrain.
Overview
Discover the serene beauty of Lea Island, a remote barrier island near Wrightsville Beach, NC. Explore pristine beaches, spot nesting sea turtles and diverse birdlife on this unique nature and beachcombing tour.
Lea Island Nature & Beachcombing Tour
3 Hours • $125 per person • Public Shared Experience
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the untouched beauty of Lea Island, a four-mile uninhabited paradise renowned for its diverse birdlife and nesting sea turtles. Just a short boat ride from Wrightsville Beach, this nature lover's haven invites you to explore pristine white sand beaches and collect unique shells. A memorable adventure awaits!
About
An amazing day-trip to our "nature lovers" PARADISE! Lea Island is a four-mile uninhabited island located between Figure Eight and Topsail Islands. The special island has been designated as one of 96 Important Bird Areas in North Carolina and is a refuge for many types of shorebirds and waterbirds, as well as nesting loggerhead sea turtles. Lea Island is known by the locals as "the place to go" for dropping anchor and combing the white sand beaches for shells, including sand dollars and whelks. Nature at it's finest, and just a 25 minute boat ride from Wrightsville Beach...Lea Island is simply beautiful! Make sure to bring along a bucket for shells!
Duration
3 hours
Adventure Tips
Bring water and sun protection
There are no facilities on Lea Island, so pack enough water and sunscreen for your trip.
Wear sturdy, sand-friendly footwear
Soft white sands and occasional rocky patches require shoes that protect your feet but are easy to clean.
Respect wildlife habitats
Keep a safe distance from nesting turtles and birds to avoid disturbing sensitive ecosystems.
Prepare for limited shade
Bring a hat and light protective clothing as natural shade is limited on open beach sections.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Loggerhead sea turtles
- Brown pelicans
History
Lea Island remains largely untouched, preserving coastal Carolina's natural heritage and providing vital nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles.
Conservation
Tour operators work closely with local groups to minimize human impact, promoting Leave No Trace principles and supporting wildlife monitoring efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wrightsville Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated under the sun with plenty of water for your beach walk.
summer specific
Sun hat
Protects your face and neck from extended sun exposure on open beaches.
summer specific
Light layers
Helpful to adapt to coastal breezes and temperature changes during spring visits.
spring specific
Binoculars
Enhance birdwatching and spot distant wildlife along shorelines and trees.