Phillips Island Loop
Distance: 1.85 miles
Difficulty Level: Easy (if you pay attention to wind conditions)
The Phillips Island Loop is a short yet captivating paddling adventure, rich with local folklore and history. Like many islands in the region, the tales surrounding Phillips Island vary depending on who you ask. A striking feature of this route is the old smoke stack standing tall above the island, a relic from a bygone era. This smoke stack is the last remnant of a fish processing plant that burned down in September 1953. Locals recall driving out to the causeway to watch the fire destroy the factory. Before it closed after WWII, the plant employed many from the community, turning Menhaden fish into meal and fertilizer.
The island, once owned by the Phillip family who purchased it in 1932 when it was 22 acres, has since eroded to its current size of 17 acres. Today, Phillips Island is public land, primarily used for research, educational classes, and outdoor activities.
Planning Considerations:
Wind
Chop
Tidal Current
Boat Traffic
Pier Fishermen
Oyster Beds
Launch: Morehead City Boat Ramp and Fishing Pier
Located at 301 Highway 70, Morehead City, NC, this ramp is always a hub of activity. As a paddler, you'll likely develop a love/hate relationship with it.
The Pros:
Ample parking in designated lots, with overflow options in grassy areas.
Restrooms with running water are available and generally clean.
A designated sand beach for kayak launching sits between the bridge and the fishing pier. On slower days, you can back your vehicle near the launch to unload gear before parking.
The Cons:
The ramp becomes chaotic on weekends and holidays, with pier fishermen and boaters often crowding the area, making it challenging to launch a kayak.
A good rule of thumb is to use this launch during the week, as weekends are unpredictable.
Alternate Option: You can launch from Conchs Point at 7th and Bay Street, Morehead City. Parking here is limited and it, too, can be busy on weekends. This option adds roughly 2 miles to your loop.
Wind:
The predominant winds in the area are from the north and south, with variations throughout the year. Paddling is comfortable in winds under 10 mph, but if winds exceed that, assess your skill and endurance honestly. The channel sees regular boat traffic, and underestimating the conditions could leave you humbled. Wind is the most crucial factor to monitor for this trail.
Tidal Currents:
Tidal currents are present but manageable unless compounded by strong winds. Facing both wind and current simultaneously can be challenging. At the kayak launch, with your belly button facing the water, an incoming tide will pull you to the right (north), while an outgoing tide will push you left (south).
Chop:
Chop results from wind, currents, and boat traffic. It causes a bouncy, jarring movement, which can make paddling more difficult. Staying on course requires extra effort when dealing with choppy waters.
Wind & Weather Apps:
Using apps like WeatherBug, AccuWeather, or Windy can help you plan your paddling trip. These apps provide wind and weather forecasts down to 10-15 minute windows. Becoming familiar with them will improve your ability to predict conditions and adjust your plans accordingly.
Launch Beach:
The beach at the launch site has a comfortable grade, allowing for easy entry into the water. It’s steep enough to get proper float depth for a smooth paddle out, while offering protection from harsh conditions. This makes it ideal for last-minute gear adjustments before heading out.
Fishing Pier:
To the right of the launch, you'll find the fishing pier. You can either paddle under it or around it, depending on the number of fishermen. Most days, it’s easier to pass underneath, as fishermen tend to congregate farther along the pier. However, if the pier is too crowded, consider paddling around it or finding another launch site.
Phillips Island:
As you paddle north of the launch, past the fishing pier, the island’s smoke stack becomes visible, making it a perfect heading target. Aim for the stack to guide your course toward the south end of Phillips Island. Upon reaching the island, you can either paddle around it or land to explore.
If you plan to paddle around the island, it’s wise to tackle the windward side first, saving the easier conditions for later. Many paddlers prefer to beach at the first available spot and explore. Keep in mind that the shore is mostly shells with sporadic sandy spots, so landing might be a bit rough. Ensure your kayak is pulled well out of the water to avoid losing it to the tide.
The island is a sanctuary for various bird species, and during your visit, you might come across bird skulls, bones, or even injured birds recovering on the island. Watch your step, as nests or baby birds may be present.
South End of the Island:
The smoke stack is located on the island’s southern end, where you’ll find plenty of space to beach your kayak. This area offers a glimpse into the island’s past, with remnants of its industrial history scattered around the smoke stack.
Oyster Beds:
The waters surrounding Phillips Island, The Hay Stacks, and Calico Bay are filled with oyster beds. While delicious to eat, oysters are treacherous for kayak hulls, leaving scratches and gouges. These hazards can catch you off guard, especially when the wind and tide are in your favor, allowing you to glide smoothly until you hit an oyster bed. Avoiding them requires staying 20-30 yards away from grass lines, though even experienced paddlers occasionally fall victim to this hidden danger.
Return Journey:
The paddle back is similar to the trip out, with the fishing pier or boat ramp serving as your heading target. In summer, you may face a headwind on your return, making the journey more challenging. The key is to stay calm and focus on maintaining good posture and technique. By keeping your spine aligned and focusing on each stroke, you’ll optimize your power and balance, making the trip easier even under tough conditions.
The Fishing Pier on Return:
Pier fishermen are often present, and their lines are hard to see, so be mindful of them as you paddle back.
The Launch Site:
Upon returning to the launch, ensure your kayak is well out of the water to prevent it from drifting while you unload your gear.