I will share an east coast near secret. There is a place in NC where the water is often almost as clear as the Keys.....not only that but there are huge live conchs everywhere...yum! The anchorage is well protected, but the bay is large enough for for great sailing and fishing. It sits between two Islands with two more very close by. The sand is insanely white, and if this is not enought there a wild ponies roaming all over two of the Islands!!!....Shakleford Banks, and Carrot Island just off Beaufort. They actually roam out into the water to eat wet sea grass!!! (talk about a photo op)
Carrot island is so close to the main town docks that you can rent a kayak and just paddle on over....maybe three hundred yards away. The incredible clear water area with the conch is inside the hook at Cape Lookout...........paradise....there is actually a white brick lightkeepers house that you volunteer to stay at for three months stints, and help care for the Island, and the turtles. I am always amazed at how uncrowded this place is.......for beach, boat, fishing, and lighthouse lovers..........you just about can't beat this place........it is worth a google.................oompa....
The history of Beaufort, with its ancient graveyards and homes is awesome too
