Come Visit Palm Tree Island at Wrightsville Beach

If you’ve spent any time on the water around Wrightsville Beach, chances are you’ve heard someone mention Palm Tree Island. It’s one of those places that locals know well, visitors stumble upon by curiosity, and boaters quietly add to their list of favorite stops. Tucked along the Intracoastal Waterway near Wrightsville Beach, Palm Tree Island isn’t flashy or overdeveloped—and that’s exactly what makes it special.

At Out East Island Charters, we spend countless hours exploring the waters around Wrightsville Beach, Masonboro, and the surrounding islands. Palm Tree Island consistently stands out as a destination that blends natural beauty, laid‑back coastal vibes, and easy access for boaters. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful sandbar day, a scenic cruise, or a jumping‑off point for fishing and wildlife watching, Palm Tree Island delivers.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Palm Tree Island: where it’s located, what makes it unique, the best times to visit, what to do once you’re there, and how to experience it safely and responsibly.

Where Is Palm Tree Island?
Palm Tree Island is located just off the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) near Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. It sits between Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island, making it a convenient stop for boaters traveling through one of the most scenic stretches of the Cape Fear coast.

Unlike some of the larger barrier islands in the area, Palm Tree Island is small and undeveloped. There are no buildings, restaurants, or docks, just sand, marsh grass, and a cluster of palm trees that give the island its name. Its accessibility by boat only helps preserve its quiet, natural feel.

Because of its location along the ICW, Palm Tree Island is easy to reach by:

• Center console boats

• Pontoon boats

• Skiffs

• Kayaks and paddleboards (conditions permitting)

This makes it an ideal destination for both seasoned boaters and families looking for a relaxed day on the water.

What Makes Palm Tree Island Special?
Palm Tree Island may be small, but it carries outsized meaning for Wrightsville Beach locals. Beyond being a relaxing sandbar stop, the island has become a tongue‑in‑cheek cultural landmark, one that perfectly reflects the laid‑back, preservation‑minded spirit of the area.

A Local Legend with a Sense of Humor
What truly makes Palm Tree Island unique is its story. The palm tree that gives the island its name wasn’t planted as part of any official beautification project—it was placed there in 2000 as a playful prank by the Salling family. Not long after, a parking meter appeared, added by a different group with the same lighthearted intent. Together, these unlikely “inhabitants” transformed a simple sandbar into an iconic symbol of Wrightsville Beach.

Over time, the palm tree and parking meter became more than a joke. They evolved into a quiet statement about the town itself: fun‑loving, a little quirky, and fiercely protective of its coastline.

A Symbol of Preservation, Not Development

In a world where many coastal towns have leaned into overdevelopment, complete with oversized billboards, neon signs, and tourist gimmicks, Wrightsville Beach has taken a different path. The palm tree and parking meter stand as a tongue‑in‑cheek reminder of the community’s commitment to preserving the serenity of its shoreline.

You won’t find big, flashy attractions or over‑the‑top commercial clutter here. Instead, you’ll experience a coastline so clean and natural that it feels almost untouched. For locals, Palm Tree Island represents that commitment—a subtle but powerful contrast to what coastal development could look like, but doesn’t.

An Island That Changes with the Tide

Another part of Palm Tree Island’s charm is that it’s never quite the same place twice. At high tide, the island nearly disappears, reminding visitors just how temporary and fragile these coastal spaces are. When the tide drops, the island re‑emerges, fresh, open, and full of possibility.

That daily rhythm mirrors life at Wrightsville Beach itself: unhurried, natural, and deeply connected to the water. Paddle, sail, or motor out, drop anchor, and let the stress of the day fade as the tide rolls in. When the sand returns, it feels like a quiet reset, something new, every single day.

Best Time to Visit Palm Tree Island

Palm Tree Island can be enjoyed year‑round, but each season offers a slightly different experience.

Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit. Temperatures are comfortable, boat traffic is lighter, and wildlife activity increases. This is a great season for:

• Scenic cruises

• Dolphin sightings

• Light fishing around the island

Summer (June–August)
Summer brings warm water, sunny skies, and longer days. Palm Tree Island becomes a popular sandbar stop, especially on weekends. If you’re visiting in summer:

• Arrive early to secure a good anchoring spot

• Bring shade, water, and sunscreen

• Expect a fun, social atmosphere

Fall (September–November)
Fall is a local favorite. Crowds thin out, temperatures remain warm, and the water stays comfortable well into October. This is an excellent time for:

• Relaxed cruising

• Fishing charters

• Photography and wildlife watching

Winter (December–February)
While swimming is limited, winter offers peaceful, scenic boat rides and some of the quietest conditions of the year. It’s perfect for those who enjoy solitude and coastal views without the crowds.

Things to Do at Palm Tree Island

Palm Tree Island is all about simple pleasures. Here are some of the most popular activities:

1. Sandbar Relaxing
Many visitors come just to anchor, step off the boat, and enjoy the sand. Bring chairs, a cooler, and a good playlist, and you’ve got the perfect low‑key island day.

2. Swimming and Floating
The shallow waters around the island make it ideal for swimming and floating. Always keep an eye on tides and currents, especially with children.

3. Wildlife Watching
You’re likely to spot:

• Dolphins cruising the ICW

• Pelicans and shorebirds

• Schools of baitfish along the shoreline

This makes Palm Tree Island a great stop for nature lovers and photographers.

4. Fishing Nearby
While the island itself is more of a relaxing stop, the surrounding waters offer opportunities for inshore fishing. Depending on the season, anglers may target:

• Red drum

• Flounder

• Speckled trout

Fishing regulations apply, so always stay current with North Carolina rules.

5. Scenic Boat Cruising
Even if you don’t stop at the island, cruising past Palm Tree Island is worth it. The views of Wrightsville Beach, Figure Eight Island, and the surrounding marshes are some of the best in the area.

Tips for Visiting Palm Tree Island Safely

Because Palm Tree Island is undeveloped, preparation is key.

• Watch the tides: Water depth can change quickly.

• Anchor properly: Use appropriate anchoring techniques to avoid damaging seagrass.

• Pack it in, pack it out: Leave no trash behind.

• Respect wildlife: Observe from a distance.

• Check weather conditions: Afternoon storms can pop up quickly in summer.

If you’re unfamiliar with local waters, booking a guided charter is one of the safest and most enjoyable ways to visit.

Ready to experience Palm Tree Island the right way?

Book your next on‑the‑water adventure with Out East Island Charters and discover why Palm Tree Island is one of Wrightsville Beach’s best‑kept secrets. Whether you’re looking for a laid‑back island day, a scenic cruise, or a fishing‑focused trip, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Book your charter today and explore the islands like a local.