Anchorage

Rachel Carson Reserve

Shelter: N, NE, W, E, SW, S
Seabed: mud
Anchoring: Allowed

Anchorage off the Rachel Carson Reserve in Taylor's Creek, across from Beaufort, North Carolina. Mud bottom.

Water
Pontoon

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Lies in Taylor's Creek between the town waterfront and the reserve islands of Carrot Island, Town Marsh and Bird Shoal. The bottom is mud and holding covers most quarters. The creek carries tidal current and through traffic, so set the anchor with care.

Practical

Beaufort Docks is 0.1 mile to the north-east on the town waterfront, with fresh water and provisions. Beaufort Yacht Basin lies 0.5 mile to the north. Land the tender on the reserve side for walking trails.

Ashore

The Rachel Carson Reserve is a state coastal reserve covering a chain of islands more than three miles long. Walking trails cross the marsh and dunes, where a feral horse herd and shorebirds can be seen. The historic Beaufort waterfront, with shops and restaurants, is a short tender ride to the north-east.

Key facts

Type: Anchorage
Coordinates: 34.71492, -76.66610 (34°42.90'N 76°39.97'W)
Country: United States
Shelter: Sheltered from north, north-east, west, east, south-west, south winds
Seabed: mud
Anchoring: Allowed
Services: Water, Pontoon
Boaters' rating: 5.0/5
Updated: July 7, 2026