Bear Island is approximately 3.5 miles long and less than 1 mile wide. The barrier island has a maritime forest, large dunes (some as high as 50 feet above sea level), a bath house with showers, concession stand, picnic shelters, and life guard, and camp sites.

Access to the island is by boat, unless you are a very, very capable swimmer. The Park Service runs a ferry to the island for the less adventuresome. The 2.5-mile boat ride takes about 25 minutes, and costs about $3 per person (last time I went, which was about 2 years ago).

Here's a picture of my sister standing on the side of one of the large dunes. In the interior of the island, where the big dunes are located, the surface temperature can reach 120+ degrees, so you don't want to hike the interior in your bare feet or without lots of water. And don't forget the sunscreen, sunglasses, and a large brimmed hat. My friends and I like to take a frisbee for one of the best frisbee throwing environments one can experience. Take along a camera too, so that you can take the island home with you.

The park is open every day from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day. The first ferry departs the mainland at 9:30 am., and the last ferry departs the island at 6:00 pm. If you would like more information, call the park service at (919) 326-4881.