Explore Shackleford Banks: Historic Cemetery, Wild Horses & Maritime Forest Eco-Tour

Read the full experience

Off the coast of North Carolina lies Shackleford Banks, a remote barrier island in the Cape Lookout National Seashore, known for its wild horses and untouched natural beauty. The "Journey to the Past: Ye Olde Cemetery & Beyond…" eco-tour offers visitors an intimate and immersive exploration of this unique landscape, blending history, wildlife, and scenic coastal wilderness into a singular adventure. Visitors embark from Morehead City, a vibrant harbor town that serves as the gateway to these remarkable shores. The tour leads you to the Old Cemetery on Shackleford Banks, an evocative site that captures a slice of the region’s past. Here, weathered headstones hint at generations of early settlers and maritime visitors, setting a poignant tone for the journey. Hiking beyond the cemetery reveals a dense maritime forest, an environment shaped by salt spray and coastal winds. Towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss create a shaded canopy, while palmettos and salt-tolerant shrubs carpet the forest floor. This mix of flora is as rare as it is beautiful, supporting a delicate ecosystem quietly thriving on the island. What elevates this adventure is the chance to see the famous Shackleford wild horses roaming freely along the beach and through the island’s varied terrain. These mustangs have lived here for centuries and embody the spirit of untamed coastal wilderness. Their presence is a highlight that draws nature lovers and history buffs alike. The eco-tour is careful to minimize environmental impact, adhering to strict leave-no-trace principles and educating passengers on the preservation of this fragile habitat. This respect for ecology enhances the experience, creating a genuine connection to place and time. The tour’s blend of history, natural beauty, and wildlife encounter makes it stand out in the Outer Banks region. It’s perfect for travelers interested in a low-impact, enriching day outdoors that combines coastal hiking with storytelling, wildlife viewing, and seascape sights all in one trip. For anyone visiting Morehead City or nearby towns, the Shackleford Banks eco-tour is a memorable way to understand the heritage and wild charm of North Carolina’s coast. Whether you’re an avid photographer, history enthusiast, or casual adventurer, this trip delivers compelling scenery and meaningful engagement with one of the East Coast’s most distinctive outdoor venues.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

3–5 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should have moderate fitness to handle hiking on sandy and possibly uneven terrain for several hours.

Frequently asked questions

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be supervised at all times due to terrain and wildlife interaction guidelines.

Is there cell phone reception on Shackleford Banks?

Cell service is limited or unavailable on the island, so plan accordingly before departing.

Can I bring a dog on the tour?

Pets are not permitted on the eco-tour to protect wildlife and maintain the island's ecosystem.

Are restrooms available on Shackleford Banks?

There are no restroom facilities on the island, so plan accordingly before your trip.

What should I do if I see wild horses?

Observe quietly from a distance, avoid feeding or approaching them, and follow the guide’s instructions.

How do I get to the departure point in Morehead City?

The tour departs from 4531 Arendell St, Morehead City, NC, accessible by car or local transport options.

Local insights

Wildlife

Shackleford wild horses
Great blue herons

History

The Old Cemetery dates back to early 19th-century settlers who lived on Shackleford Banks, marking an evocative connection to coastal history.

Conservation

This eco-tour operates under strict conservation guidelines to preserve the fragile island ecosystem and protect its unique free-roaming horse population.

About H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions

H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions provides private, small-group boat charters along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Captain Mark leads guided eco-focused trips to Shackleford Banks, Sand Dollar Island, Cape Lookout, and local creeks, highlighting wild Shackleford Banker horses, dolphin encounters, shelling, and coastal history. Trips include sunset cruises, two-island adventures, half-day lighthouse tours, serene beach picnics, canal explorations, and custom charters designed for families, shellers, photographers, and new boat owners. Every excursion emphasizes respectful wildlife viewing, low-impact anchoring, and shoreline stewardship to protect fragile habitats. The fleet offers comfortable, private vessels equipped for short to half-day outings ranging from three to five and a half hours. The two-island tour supplies reusable shelling bags for participants; other itineraries feature guided walks, lighthouse visits, and secluded picnic spots reachable only by boat. Custom itineraries can include overnight plans, navigation coaching, and targeted mariner guidance for shallow-water routes. H2O Captain Eco-Tour maintains local knowledge of currents, tides, and seasonal wildlife behavior, ensuring safe, memorable, and educational experiences. Booking is private by design, allowing personalized pacing and focus on each group’s interests. The operation serves visitors to Beaufort, Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and surrounding waterfront communities, providing clear meeting points such as Coral Bay Marina. Reviews consistently praise natural encounters, Captain Mark’s local expertise, and thoughtful trip planning. For visitors seeking an intimate, conservation-minded way to experience the Crystal Coast’s wild horses, beaches, and waterways, H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions delivers tailored, trustworthy adventures. Advance reservations are recommended year-round for popular seasonal trips.

Base locationMorehead City, North Carolina

Tours offered

Adventure tips

Respect Wildlife DistanceMaintain a safe distance from the wild horses to avoid disturbing them—use binoculars or zoom lenses for close-up views.

Wear Sturdy FootwearThe maritime forest trails are uneven and sandy; hiking shoes with good grip will keep you comfortable and safe.

Pack Water and SnacksBring enough water and light snacks, as there are no facilities on Shackleford Banks during the tour.

Apply Sun ProtectionExposure on beaches and open trails can be intense—wear sunblock, hats, and sunglasses even on cloudy days.

Recommended gear

Lightweight Hiking Boots: Protect feet from sand and provide support on forest trails.
Binoculars: Ideal for observing wild horses and distant wildlife without disturbance.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial under the coastal sun and during hikes.
Sun Hat and Sunglasses: Essential for sun protection in open and exposed areas.