Lea-Hutaff Island is a pristine, 5,641-acre barrier island located off the coast of North Carolina, nestled between Figure Eight Island and Topsail Beach. It is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, featuring vast expanses of bare sand and remnants of primary dunes. The island is a critical habitat for wildlife, including loggerhead sea turtles and numerous bird species like Least Terns and Piping Plovers. It serves as an important stopover for thousands of migrating birds and supports a diverse range of marine life in its tidal marshes and creeks. The island's conservation is managed by the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust and Audubon North Carolina, ensuring it remains a haven for wildlife and a peaceful recreational area for visitors.
Lea-Hutaff Island is accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded charm. Its beaches are characterized by soft, white sand, though they lack modern amenities like lifeguards and restrooms. The island's history is marked by its formation from the consolidation of Lea Island and Hutaff Island after the closure of Old Topsail Inlet in 1998.
Despite its remote nature, Lea-Hutaff Island offers a unique experience for those interested in nature and wildlife. It is a place where one can enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, and walking along the shore, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
