Radio Island Beach

Take a stroll along the beach where the waves are gentle, (and generally non-existent), but the views are outstanding. As a result of this calm terrain, the beach is a popular destination for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, and other watersports that are best enjoyed in flat and shallow waters. The area can also be a great shelling destination. Originally called the Inlet Island, it was created in the 1930s as part of a larger plan to create a deeper shipping channel and to build port facilities in Morehead City.

The island was originally owned by the U.S. Navy, but after World War II, the territory was sold to private investors. In 1947, the investors decided to build a 280’ foot tower on Inlet Island to establish a new radio station – WMBL. It was at this time that Inlet Island became known instead as “Radio Island.”

The Radio Island Beach access site features ample free parking, restrooms, seasonal showers, and handicapped accessible facilities via a long wooden boardwalk that leads directly to the sand. There are a set of rules for visiting the beach, (such as no fireworks, beach fires, or glass containers), which are stationed at the beach’s entrance. Slightly hidden, this beach access can be a little tricky to find for newcomers, but is a welcome destination for sunny days on the sand.

Located between Morehead City and Beaufort in Carteret County, the beach is managed by Carteret County Parks and Recreation.