Ocracoke Travel Guide

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Ocracoke, North Carolina, from must-visit attractions and outdoor adventures to food and drink scene and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Ocracoke

Ocracoke is a small island located in Outer Banks, in the North Carolina Coastal Plain region. It is known for its unspoiled beaches, natural landscapes, and rich history. The island is accessible only by ferry, making it a secluded and peaceful spot for those looking for a tranquil getaway. Ocracoke has a unique culture shaped by its history as a pirate haven, a fishing village, and a Civil War battlefield.

List of Places to Visit in Ocracoke

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ocracoke Island Lighthouse: A 75-foot-tall structure built in 1823 that has been guiding ships through the dangerous waters of Ocracoke Inlet for over 200 years.
  • Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum: A museum housed in a 19th-century house that showcases the island’s rich history, from Native American settlements to the present day.
  • Teach’s Hole Blackbeard Exhibit: A museum dedicated to the infamous pirate who once called Ocracoke home. It features artifacts, interactive exhibits, and live reenactments.

Natural Attractions of Ocracoke: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ocracoke Beach: A stunning, 16-mile stretch of unspoiled beach with crystal clear waters. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Springer’s Point Nature Preserve: A 122-acre nature preserve that features scenic trails through maritime forests and salt marshes.
  • Ocracoke Island Wildlife Center: A wildlife rehabilitation center that offers educational tours and up-close encounters with native animals like sea turtles and birds of prey.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ocracoke

  • Ocracoke Island Trail: A 12.5-mile trail that runs through the island’s pristine and undeveloped landscape. It is ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
  • Bike Paths: The island has over 9 miles of bike paths that offer easy and scenic bike rides throughout the village and the nearby beaches.

Best Things to Do in Ocracoke: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing Charters: Ocracoke is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with charters offering inshore, offshore, and surf fishing trips.
  • Kayak Tours: Explore the island’s waterways and salt marshes on a guided kayak tour.
  • Ghost Tours: Learn about Ocracoke’s haunted history on a spooky ghost tour of the island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ocracoke

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Ocracoke. Bike around the village and have dinner at Eduardo’s Taco Stand.
Day 2 Take a guided kayak tour of the island’s waterways. Have lunch at Dajio Restaurant and watch the sunset at Springer’s Point Nature Preserve.
Day 3 Spend the day at Ocracoke Beach. Have lunch at Back Porch Restaurant and Dinner at Howard’s Pub.
Day 4 Take a surfing lesson at Ocracoke Surf School. Have lunch at The Flying Melon Cafe and dinner at Thai Moon.
Day 5 Go on a 4x4 Jeep tour of the island’s undeveloped beaches. Have lunch at Ocracoke Oyster Company and dinner at The Slushy Stand.
Day 6 Visit the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum and the Springer’s Point Nature Preserve. Have lunch at Eduardo’s Taco Stand and dinner at The Community Square.
Day 7 Take a ferry to nearby Portsmouth Island for a day trip. Have lunch at Driftwood Cafe and dinner at Jolly Roger Restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of Ocracoke

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ocracoke Oysters: These local oysters are known for their sweet, briny taste and are served raw, steamed, or in a variety of dishes.
  • Shrimp and Grits: A beloved Southern dish made with fresh local shrimp and creamy grits.
  • Hushpuppies: A classic Southern side dish made with cornmeal and deep-fried.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A classic Southern staple, sweet tea is a refreshing beverage made with black tea and plenty of sugar.
  • Craft Beer: Ocracoke has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing unique and delicious brews.
  • Rum Cocktails: Ocracoke has a long history of rum-running, and you can taste the island’s rum heritage in refreshing cocktails like the Painkiller and Dark and Stormy.

Where to Stay in Ocracoke: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Ocracoke Harbor Inn: This charming inn is located in the heart of the village and offers cozy and affordable rooms.
  • The Castle Bed & Breakfast: A historic bed and breakfast that features elegant rooms and beautiful grounds.
  • Beach House Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located just steps from the beach. It offers private and shared rooms at affordable rates.

What to Buy in Ocracoke: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ocracoke Island Pottery: Handcrafted pottery made by local artists that captures the beauty and essence of the island.
  • Ocracoke Island Books and Coffee: A local bookshop and coffeehouse that offers a wide selection of books and gifts.
  • Ocracoke Island Trading Company: A gift shop that offers a variety of beach-themed gifts, jewelry, and home decor.

Local Culture and Customs of Ocracoke

  • The island has a strong sense of community, and visitors are always welcome to join in on local events and celebrations.
  • Oyster farming is a vital part of the island’s economy and history, and visitors can witness the process firsthand and taste the delicious results.
  • The island has a long history of pirate activity and legends, and visitors can learn about the island’s pirate past at local museums and attractions.

Best Time to Visit Ocracoke

The best time to visit Ocracoke is between May and October, when the weather is warm, and the island is bustling with activity. However, visitors can also enjoy the island’s serenity and beauty during the off-season months of November to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ocracoke

Do:

  • Do respect the island’s natural environment and wildlife by leaving no trace and following all local rules and regulations.
  • Do take the time to explore the island’s rich history and culture by visiting local museums and attractions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the island’s fragile ecosystem.
  • Don’t drive on the beach, as it is prohibited and can cause harm to wildlife and vegetation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ocracoke

  • Visitors should be aware of rip currents and always swim in designated areas.
  • Visitors should also be aware of wildlife, including venomous snakes and insects, and take necessary precautions.

Health in Ocracoke

  • Visitors should wear sunscreen and protect themselves from the sun, as the island has intense sun exposure.
  • Visitors should also be aware of ticks and take necessary precautions to prevent tick bites.

Getting to Ocracoke: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ocracoke

  • The closest airport to Ocracoke is the Michael J. Smith Field (EWN) in New Bern, NC, about 135 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Ocracoke

  • The nearest Greyhound bus station is located in Elizabeth City, NC, about 90 miles away.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also reach Ocracoke by ferry from Hatteras Island, Cedar Island, or Swan Quarter.

How to Get Around in Ocracoke

  • The easiest and most popular way to get around Ocracoke is by bike or on foot.
  • Visitors can also rent a golf cart or take a taxi to get around the island.

Where to Go Next from Ocracoke: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A 70-mile-long protected stretch of barrier islands that offer stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
  • Beaufort, NC: A charming coastal town known for its historic district and maritime heritage.

Conclusion

Ocracoke is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Southern culture and natural scenery. With its unspoiled beaches, charming village, and rich history, Ocracoke has something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a peaceful escape, Ocracoke is the perfect destination for your next vacation.