The refuge is managed for wildlife and to maintain the island in its natural state. The public is welcome to enjoy the beach and interior trails for hiking, bicycling, and wildlife observation. Although swimming and picnicking is permitted on the beach, open fires and pets are not allowed. There are only shallow, seasonal ponds in the interior of the island. Surf fishing is permitted on the beach.
Most people anchor their boats off the north or south ends of the island.
The refuge has a boat dock at the small headquarters office on Wassaw Creek. The public is welcome to load or unload passengers at the dock to access trails or obtain visitor information. However, due to the small size of the dock, boats must be anchored away from the dock in the creek.