4 Ways to Experience the Nature and Wildlife on Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island is one of the best places to visit if you want to connect with nature. Are you looking for a new way to explore Eastern, North Carolina that is both fun and educational?  Learn about four unique ways to experience nature when you plan your next trip to BHI.


The Ibis Sanctuary is located on a private piece of Middle Island that is only accessible by guided tours.  You will get to see ibis, egrets and herons on this 1.5 hour tour with breathtaking views.  Binoculars are provided but you may want to also bring a camera to capture the beauty of this location.  This activity is great for photographers, kids and nature lovers alike.  You can meet a guide at the Bald Head Island Conservancy.  For more information, you can visit their website. 

If you love to fish, then the Fishing School is an activity that must be added to your list of things to do.  The Thad Wester Fishing School covers fishing identification, hooks, baits and bait rigging and releasing and conservation plus so much more.  The school was named for the founding BHI Conservancy member, Thad Wester and began in 1983.  Fishing usually begins early morning on the beach and one of the highlights is the fish fry at the conclusion of the event.

A day trip to Bald Head Island may be just what you need for a quick getaway with the family.  The Bald Eagle tours are a popular attraction that is seasonal.  You can call the Bald Head Island Conservancy to find out the best times to visit.  Another interesting activity for nature enthusiasts is the Painted Bunting Tours.  It is said that this colorful bird may just be the most beautiful bird in North America.  While the tour is also seasonal, plan your visit at the right time and you will have many opportunities to catch a glimpse at these amazing creatures.  If you have children traveling with you for a day trip, Touch Tank Time would be fun for the entire family.  Have your little ones see snakes, turtles, sand sharks and more. 

Before you leave Bald Head Island, you should make time to visit the Maritime Forest Reserve.  It has 180 acres with access to trails for you to see twisted live oak trees that were blown by offshore winds and meet a friendly red fox who is used to being fed by island employees. The reserve is also home to a host of insects, deer, squirrels, raccoons, Carolina wrens and cardinals. Don’t forget to stop and view the small freshwater pond before you depart from this natural treasure.   

Visit our website to start planning your trip to Bald Head Island.  

Published on Friday, December 22, 2017