Enjoy an unspoiled beach in a globally rare area

Adventure to what feels like your own private island in the coastal town of Swansboro. As part of Hammocks Beach State Park, Huggins Island is 225 acres of undeveloped land that’s home to a maritime swamp forest, which is listed as a Globally Rare and Significant Area. From the mainland, take a kayak, canoe or paddleboard on trails to delve into land that was used as a Native American hunting ground and, later, a Confederate six-cannon battery. Camp nearby on Bear Island, accessible only by boat, for a quiet night under the stars and some extended time on the water.