Barrier Islands are the string of islands that make up the Outer Banks, both Northern and Southern. They are the first line of protection at the Oceans edge. In other words Bogue Banks, Bear Island, Browns Island, Topsail Island etc.... are all barrier Islands. I know what your saying though, I keep hearing of schools of drum behind some of these islands too but never seem to come upon one. Just keep scouting around (as quietly as possible) and you'll end up finding them....or so I'm told.