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The last island on the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island in North Carolina, is full of history, natural beauty, and untamed and raw appeal.
When we started planning our trip to the Outer Banks, North Carolina, we thought of staying in the North, as most of our friends suggested.
Then, we started exploring the majestic barrier islands that spread about 200 miles long. The thought of driving on the thin strip of land running amidst the vast Atlantic Ocean was very inviting to change our minds.
So, we changed our itinerary and included driving the Outer Banks Scenic Byway all the way to Ocracoke and staying there. We were happy with our decision with so many things to do in Ocracoke.
Related Read: 15 Best Things to Do in Outer Banks, NC
Ocracoke Island NC
Ocracoke, also known as the ‘Pearl of Outer Banks, ‘ is a small historic fishing village town on Ocracoke Island, which is about 15 miles long. It’s part of the series of barrier islands of Outer Banks, North Carolina.
The island is preserved and managed by the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Enveloped by the Pamlico Sound (the lagoon along the North American East Coast) and the Atlantic Ocean, this remote, unspoiled island creeps up on you quickly. We dare you not to try falling in love with Ocracoke 🙂
We instantly fell in love with the place. The small roads, serene beaches, breathtaking sunsets, an old lighthouse, mouth-watering food, small airport, warm and friendly people. Ocracoke would never disappoint you.
A Bit of History of Ocracoke Island
The history of Ocracoke is quite intriguing. It has pirates!
The pirate Edward Teach, famously known as Blackbeard, once voyaged along its coast and was caught at the seaward end and beheaded in 1718.
The village flourished once the pirate was dead. It became a recognized town in 1753.
You can read more about Ocracoke’s history here.
Best Things to do in Ocracoke
Of course, you are here to relax and rejuvenate, and rushing between tourist places is the last thing you’d want to do. However, you can indulge in some adventure activities to keep the kids busy.
The historic town itself is an attraction. Stroll around the village to enjoy the good vibes. Start exploring the warmth of the city by renting a bike or golf cart from the hotel. There are many other Ocracoke golf cart rentals from where bikes and golf carts can be rented.
Conversely, you could just enjoy the quaint lake relaxing, sitting by the docks, watching the gulls fly.
1. Navigating the town with the Ocracoke Navigator’s audio tour is fun and a learning experience.
2. Make a stopover at the Ocracoke Lighthouse. It’s the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest in the USA.
The Ocracoke Island lighthouse isn’t open to the public, so you can’t climb it. However, you can enjoy its white beauty and the mini version of the lighthouse at the entrance.
Essential Reading: Lighthouses in Outer Banks
3. A 0.2-mile ride past the lighthouse takes you to a lovely nature preserve – Springer’s Point Preserve. It’s a perfect place for nature lovers and bird watchers to spend some peaceful and soulful time with nature while watching different species of birds.
Plus, the views of Teach’s Hole and the Pamlico Sound are breathtaking. Springer’s Point was used by the Blackbird and his pirate companions as a party and dance destination.
4. Fishing is one of the most popular activities here. To fish on the beach, you can drive your car onto the shore but need an Off-Road Vehicle Permit from NPS.
5. You can drive on the Ocracoke beach. Purchase your permit pass from the NPS desk at Ocracoke Visitor Center.
6. While you chase the Wild horses in Corolla Beach, it is much easier to spot them in Ocracoke. Head over to the Ocracoke Pony Pen and see the wild ponies.
7. If you have time and love being out in the untamed and rough destinations, you can take a Portsmouth Island boat tour from Ocracoke to the wild and quiet island of Portsmouth. We weren’t able to get to Portsmouth because of the time limit.
8. One of the interesting facts we learned was that there is British soil on Ocracoke. No, it’s not a British embassy, but a cemetery where some World War II sailors were put to rest. Every year, there is a ceremony in which the US Coast Guard and British Royal Navy officers join to honor them. Read more cool and interesting Outer Banks facts to get amazed.
9. When in Ocracoke, how can you miss the Ocracoke Island beaches, which are considered the best in the Outer Banks? Head out with your towels, beach umbrella, chairs, and a book to sunbathe, build castles, or walk on the cold, wet sand.
Kids enjoy flying the kites on the beach. The best beach is the Lifeguard Beach, which has restrooms, water-filling stations, and ample parking space.
South Point Beach is the southernmost tip of Ocracoke Island.
10. Last but not least, how can you not watch the sun going down into the ocean while beach vacationing? Enjoy the sunset over the Ocracoke harbor. This is the most calming and the best thing to do on Ocracoke Island.
You Might Like: Best Beaches on the East Coast for Families
How to Get Around Ocracoke
The best way to explore the city is on foot, or you could rent a bike or golf cart.
We chose the bike with child seats. Kids were so excited to sit pillion and enjoy the views.
We steered our way in and out of the streets leisurely, looking at the beautiful houses, children playing, sitting, and watching the sun paint the sky with those warm colors…We felt a breath of fresh air.
Read More: Best Places to Visit on the East Coast USA
Ferries to Ocracoke
The only way to reach Ocracoke is by taking a ferry or small plane.
There are three ferries to Ocracoke Island:
- Hatteras Island
- Cedar Island
- Swan Quarter
We took the free ferry from Hatteras Island, which took us to this beautiful island in about 45 minutes.
The North Carolina Ferry crossing is free from Highway 12 and takes around an hour, and it is situated along the Outer Banks.
When coming from down South or west, you can take the toll ferry from Cedar Island or Swan Quarter, which takes about 2 ½ hours.
The ferries to and from Cedar Island and Swan Quarter run two to three times a day, and you can make reservations in advance online.
During peak season, the ferry from Hatteras has a long waiting queue, so plan to arrive about one hour early. Please check the ferry schedule and reservations here.
You are allowed to take your car onto the ferry.
If you think Outer Banks is only for summer, think again. Read the Complete Guide to Outer Banks in Winter and enjoy the offseason.
You Might Want to Read: Best Places to Visit in the USA with Kids
Ocracoke Hotels
When you are looking in Ocracoke for a home away from home, Ocracoke Harbor Inn is one of the best Outer Banks hotels.
During our visit in spring, we booked the standard room for 1 night and enjoyed our stay. The room was comfortable and immaculate, with a balcony overlooking the spectacular Silver Lake Ocracoke.
The room has basic amenities like a coffee maker, refrigerator, and hairdryer. The microwave is available in the office and can be used if required.
Wi-Fi is available in the room to remain connected, which is helpful as mobile connectivity is very weak.
The office staff was warm and extremely helpful. They shared some interesting stories and history about the island.
There is a complimentary continental breakfast, which is good for the start of the day. You can enjoy it sitting on benches outside by the docks.
In the evenings, relax and watch the sun go down, or have fun barbecuing with friends at the grill available by the waters.
The aroma of the grilled meat, corn, and veggies wafting away might be inviting to surge your appetite.
A room at Harbor Inn Ocracoke costs around $200, and prices may vary by season. The hotel offers bike rentals for $6 per hour.
Other hotels in Ocracoke, NC, are The Cove Bed & Breakfast, The Castle B&B on Silver Lake, and The Anchorage Inn.
If you are looking for Ocracoke Vacation Rentals, then read our hand-picked Airbnb Outer Banks to find the best.
Find the best deals and special offers on beautiful places to stay in Ocracoke, NC, here.
Ocracoke Restaurants: Where to Eat
Ocracoke has many good places to eat, especially on such a tiny and remote island. Some of our recommendations are –
Eduardo’s Taco Stand
It is said, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” But if the food is fresh and mouthwatering, it surely will reach a woman’s heart as well. That’s precisely what happened when we ate a scrumptious meal at this Mexican food truck – Eduardo’s Taco Stand in Ocracoke.
This quirky little truck is the best place to eat on Ocracoke. The menu mainly includes Seafood, Mexican, and Fusion cuisines.
If I had to define Eduardo, I’d say he’s a food Artist! Eduardo and his family are friendly and joyful people. Ask for recommendations, and they are ready to help.
Food is so fresh and mouth-watering that it makes you crave more. The best part is its grab-and-go aspect.
I mean, if you are in a hurry to catch a ferry, you can grab tacos and eat on the go. How convenient it is! And if you have enough time in hand, sit back, relax, and relish the meals at one of the picnic tables there while enjoying the views of beautiful and rustic Ocracoke Island. Isn’t it a win-win situation? 🙂
The wide menu ranging from Yummilicious burritos, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, nachos and much more. They even had an option of mango salsa. The food prices were reasonable.
Nice picnic tables alongside the truck are a great place to savor your meal.
I highly recommend veggie nachos—nachos topped with a handsome amount of grilled veggies, beans, and melting cheese. They also came with guacamole and sour cream.
When on Ocracoke, try yummy snacks at quirky Eduardo’s Taco Truck. Kids are sure to love the food.
PS: Eduardo’s Taco Stand only accepts cash.
Dajio Restaurant
Set in a lovely restored building, Dajio Restaurant has beautiful indoor as well as outdoor seating.
Their menu changes with the seasons as they believe in serving the finest food made with love and fresh local ingredients from the sea and organic backyard garden.
Try their daily specials to get the authentic feel of the place.
Tips for Visiting Ocracoke Island
- The mobile connectivity is limited, although hotels and cafes have WiFi. Not having mobile connectivity worked to our advantage as we could enjoy our laid-back vacation in Ocracoke to the fullest, with no trying.
- Don’t forget to bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Don’t drive on the beach without a permit. It’s a federal offense, and if they seize you for driving without the permit, you will not only pay the fine but also feel embarrassed. Make sure to buy the permit from the visitor’s office.
It was hard to bid adieu to this picture-postcard place, which now holds a special place in our hearts. We took our ferry from Ocracoke to Swan Quarter, which took us 2 hours and 15 minutes to come out of sight but never out of mind.
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Feature image courtesy: Ocracoke Harbor Inn
Such write ups are very useful for people who plan their outings with family and friends. You get a little background of the place and pack the baggage accordingly. Seems the place to be worth visiting.
Thanks papa. Yes must visit place..
Beautifully expressed. Will definitely plan a trip that side. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Neha.. Sure you should plan and experience the beauty.
My family & I stayed in OBX this past August. We drove down from Duck to Cape Hatteras & took the ferry over to Ocracoke. We had lunch, shopped, & visited the lighthouse. I highly recommend anyone visiting OBX do the same. You forgot to mention Howard’s Pub where we had lunch. It was a wonderful meal & the service was great. Our waitress lives on the island & she shared many interesting facts about living there year round.
That’s great. I am sure you would have had a great time at OBX. The drive and ferry ride is great. Good to know that you found a wonderful place to eat. I remember our hotel owners in Ocracoke also shared some interesting facts and stories.