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Hammocks Beach State Park located in Swansboro, North Carolina is a beautiful place to visit.

Entering the parking lot you come to a large building with many picnic tables close by. Inside the building you see a small wildlife exhibit that will touch your heart. It just goes to show you that small things can be interesting.

On the other side of the building is a little gift shop. Here you can also buy tickets for the ferry to Bear Island. On the back on the building is a large deck with benches and chairs where you can just sit and enjoy the beautiful view.

The ferry to, the three and a half mile long, Bear Island runs from April to the end of October with slightly varied schedules during those months. It costs $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children 6 to 12 and seniors 62 and older for the round trip fare. The ferry ride to Bear Island is about a fifteen minute ride. The only way to get to Bear Island is by ferry or private boat. No roads go to the island. The lack of a road keeps it unspoiled and peaceful. Arriving at the dock on the island you can get ready for the half mile walk to the other side of the island to the Atlantic Ocean. The island offers a swimming area, sun bathing, surf fishing, and primitive camp sites if you would like to spend a night on the island. The island also has a small concession stand where you can purchase drinks and snacks.. Be sure to watch the time so you don’t miss the last returning ferry ride back or you could be spending an unplanned night on Bear Island.

Walking along the beach looking for sea shells, seeing a brown pelican dive head first into the ocean for a fish, or just walking along and enjoying the warmth of the sun and breathing the sea air will give you an enjoyable day.

For a beautiful fun filled day turn off of route 24 in Swansboro, North Carolina where you see the sign for Hammocks Beach State Park. Be sure to take your camera to save the memories of a day on Bear Island.