North Carolina’s southernmost beach is one that is technically shared with neighboring South Carolina. The beach at Bird Island Reserve may be the most underrated beach in the state, and that just makes it all the more alluring.

Located less than mile down the beach from the beloved Sunset Pier and Sunset Beach, this sandy little paradise is always much less crowded than nearby beaches.
Google Maps/Aaron Edwards
The wide open beachfront remains undeveloped here since it's part of the Bird Island Reserve, and also because it's just so difficult to get to unless you have a boat or are willing to tote all of your beach gear quite a distance from the parking area at Sunset Beach.
Google Maps/Maxine Hedin
The rewards for walking all that way are perfectly clear once you've arrived. The beach, although eroded somewhat by recent storms, is expansive.
TripAdvisor/
And the sand... is fluffy and pearly white.
Google Maps/Anna Seagle

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When you go, be sure to check out the famous Kindred Spirit mailbox. The seaside box acts as a portal for thoughts scrawled upon pages and pages deposited by travelers from all over. A bench is adjacent to the box allowing for some quiet reflection before depositing your deepest thoughts and wishes.
TripAdvisor/Gilbert27
Google Maps/Gerald Monaco
A nature trail leads from the beach into Bird Island Reserve. It's a loop trail and one from which you won't want to stray. Gators have been known to show up in the reserve, so heed the warning to keep on the trail.
Google Maps/Marcie Horne
Google Maps

Have you discovered this hidden little beach at Bird Island Reserve? We’d love to know and to see your photos!

Bird Island Reserve is located just south of Sunset Beach. The reserve’s 1,300 acres are adjacent to the Town of Sunset Beach. To reach Bird Island, go to the intersection of 40th and Main Streets in Sunset Beach. There is a small parking area. Overflow parking is available on the street, provided there isn’t a ‘no parking’ sign. Take the beach access at 40th Street. Upon reaching the beachfront, turn right and walk south along the beach until you reach the Bird Island Reserve signs. More information is available on the Bird Island Reserve page of the official website of the NC Division of Coastal Management.

Love discovering new beaches along the North Carolina coast? Take this Hidden Beaches Road Trip to see more than a few – all on one day.

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