Thanks, going to try to check it out in the next few weekends, will have to contact ferry. Any recomendations where to launch kayaks? Well be tent camping, Hows the bugs and noseeums? Thanks for the info!
I haven't been since Dorian hit so your best bet on launch points would be to contact the staff when you arrive. The turtle/bird nesting exclusions will also play a part in where travel is permitted. For the last several years, there was a sound access spur off the back road on the southern end which led to a small beach. Great spot to hang out especially if you have kids - shallow warm water with minimal current but I don't know what the recent storms might have changed.
We've always set up camp a few miles north of the ferry landing. If you're in a ground tent, look for a cutout in the dune line so you'll have wind protection on at least two side, three is better. Don't pitch anything or park on the dunes. A screen room or EZ-UP is a good idea if you have one that can handle a stiff breeze,' Having a place to cook, get out of the sun and escape blowing sand or bugs is nice.
Mosquitoes and greenheads are the biggest bug problem. These are ferocious around the dunes and vegetation but there's usually a good wind coming off the ocean making the beach itself relatively bug free, Repellents with a high percentage of deet work well for me but I'm too old to worry about any future offspring glowing in the dark

. Skin so Soft seems to be popular with the ladies in our group.
If you choose Portsmouth, tell Kari and Rick at the marina Al from Tarboro says 'Hi' and hopes to see them soon.