Rachel Carson Reserve

The islands of the Rachel Carson reserve are just as beautiful as they are educational. Only accessible by motorboat or ferry, these islands are one of the best-kept secrets of the Crystal Coast. They give you the option of relaxing and taking in the sun on the pristine shores or exploring the natural trails where you can observe wildlife, such as feral horses, gray foxes, river otters, sea turtles and many species of fish, in their natural habitat.

Island Ferry Adventures will drop you off at Carrot Island, which is part of the Rachel Carson Reserve, where you can spend an hour or the entire day enjoying the 1.1 mile trail looping through a variety of unique environments. Explore mudflats, uplands and salt marshes where over 200 species of birds, 52 species of fish, 47 species of invertebrates and more than 40 horses call home. Experience nature trails, horses, hiking and wildlife. This island connects to Bird Shoals where you can look for sand dollars.