Ocracoke

Ocracoke is a village on Ocracoke Island, part of North Carolina's coastal Outer Banks region. The landmark 1823 Ocracoke Lighthouse overlooks the village and Pamlico Sound. Set in an early 1900s house, the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum traces the island’s history. Nearby, the tiny British Cemetery contains the graves of WWII sailors. Silver Lake is dotted with boats, and shops and restaurants line its harbor.

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Top attractions in Ocracoke

1. Ocracoke Lighthouse

4.6

(2721)

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Finished in 1823, this historic tower is the second oldest operating lighthouse in the nation.

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Here’s a well-crafted Google review for the Ocracoke Island Light Station: ⸻ A must-see piece of history on Ocracoke Island! The Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is a beautiful and well-preserved landmark that offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the Outer Banks. While you can’t climb the steps to the top, you can walk inside the lighthouse, which is a rare treat! Access is easy via a short boardwalk, and it’s open to the public and completely free. A friendly and knowledgeable volunteer was on site during our visit to share fascinating stories about the lighthouse’s construction, its keepers, and its role in guiding mariners for over a century. The whole experience is peaceful, educational, and doesn’t take long — plan for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend soaking it all in. You can ride your bike or drive there while exploring Ocracoke, and it makes for a perfect little side trip. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just looking for a quiet and scenic stop, this lighthouse is absolutely worth a visit!

Abby D — Google review

Not very photogenic at the moment with the ongoing preservation efforts to the keepers quarters, but you can go inside (a relatively recent change) the base of the tower. Climbing is currently not allowed. It's the oldest lighthouse on the Outer Banks and not in the greatest of shape.

Chuck W — Google review

Pretty cute lighthouse. Can see from far offshore. It’s unfortunately closed due to not being safe to climb, however outside structurally it’s beautiful. Again, an unfortunate moment was a man and his preteen and younger children trying to break in, then walking on the land that’s gated off.

Brittney G — Google review

Went to the Lighthouse to get my passport stamp in my Lighthouse Padsport. But it was closed due to renovations. You can still get close enough to get a good picture.

Cozette R — Google review

Actual working light house so no entry. Lighthouse keepers dwelling, under renovation at the moment. Still great view and reading materials available on the history of this iconic piece of North Carolina’s !

Tres M — Google review

There were renovations happening during our visit. However ...we enjoyed talking to the volunteer there and seeing the inside of the lighthouse

Teresa B — Google review

Last lighthouse on our OBX visit worth the trip to the quaint island 🏝️ village. We have completed all OBX main attractions.

Rick V — Google review

Beautiful historic lighthouse with a charming old village surrounding it. The area is well-maintained, with several nearby places to grab a bite to eat. A great spot to explore and soak in some local history.

Jason K — Google review

2. British Cemetery

4.7

(48)

Cemetery

Sights & Landmarks

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A touching tribute to list sailors serving far from their native home. If you are on Ocracoke, I would highly recommend paying this spot a visit.

Brennan — Google review

A bit of history and remembrance from WWII. "These gravesites contain the bodies of four British seamen. Their ship, the armed trawler HMS Bedfordshire, was on loan to our Navy by Great Britain to help protect our shores during the early days of World War II. On May 11, 1942 the Bedfordshire was torpedoed and sunk by a German sub. All hands were lost and these four were the only bodies recovered. This cemetery is maintained by Ocracoke Coast Guard Station personnel."

Michael — Google review

Touching memorial to the British seamen whose bodies washed ashore on Ocracoke Island beaches. The memorial ceremony was touching and memorable.

Julie P — Google review

Solitude and amazing history. Be sure to visit to not let these sacrifices be forgotten. Would love to be there to see the annual ceremony.

Mike P — Google review

Small well done tribute to these soldiers who gave everything

Robert H — Google review

On Ocracoke Island, the British Cemetery commemorates four British Royal Navy sailors who lost their lives on May 11, 1942, when German U-boat 558 attacked their ship, the HMT Bedfordshire. Only four remains were found when the ship sank off the coast of North Carolina while searching for enemy submarines; they washed up close to the settlement. Residents of Ocracoke gave a tiny piece of land for their burial as a token of appreciation and respect; this area is now permanently leased to the British Commonwealth, making it, metaphorically, British soil. Each year on the anniversary of the sinking, a memorial ceremony is held with representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, British Royal Navy, and Canadian forces, honoring the sacrifice of these men who died defending American shores.

Bruce K — Google review

The British Cemetery was created in May 1942 for four sailors, two known and two unknown, that washed ashore from the HMS Bedfordshire after she was torpedoed by German U-boat. To this day the United States Coast Guard station at Ocracoke maintains the property. A British flag flies at all times over the graves of those British sailors. The flag is replaced each year with a new one sent by the Queen of England.

Joe D — Google review

Very cool place to reflect on the history of the area. You can access this directly from the road. Parking is not abundant so walk or bike if you can.

M.K. P — Google review

3. Pony Pen

4.4

(527)

Park

Nature & Parks

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Beautiful and quiet spot for the horses of Ocracoke to be. They are penned but it's for their safety and ability to thrive. There is also an excellent beach access point right across the street.

Packy R — Google review

Good for a quick stop to see some horses and learn a little bit about the history of the ponies in the Outer Banks. They are not out in roaming like they are at Corolla. Convenient beach access is directly across the street.

Nathan W — Google review

Rainy day, but that didn't stop the ponies from grazing and kicking up mud. Plenty of food and fresh water is avaliable for them. They just seemed to love nature's mud water!

Amber C — Google review

This was a great and relaxing place to go in the island! We were lucky they have ponys feeding as the first time we drove by there were none, so I'll suggest going there in the morning time. The beach access across the street it's one of my favorite as it has limited parking so it has limited people (if you want some privacy and nice beach time without too many people). We really like it! Great for kids and families! I highly recommend it 🔥🔥🔥

Luis M — Google review

One of the many places in the beautiful state of North Carolina where you could see wild horses and ponies. Truly from the mountains to the sea. I'll have to come back soon, to visit with the ponies. If I don't my wife will kill me 😁

Michael — Google review

This is just a quick stop. It's just a coral for the ponies. You can scan a qr code to adopt one. This helps fund their care. There is no one there to answer questions. There an info sign but that's about it. Being that is free and you can sit all long as you like, it's nice. Across the road there is the most fantastic picnic spot! These ponies are different from the wild ponies that you can see on the wild pony tours.

K B — Google review

Beautiful area. Walking trails are being renovated so you can only view ponies at the parking lot area for now. Interesting signs share the history of the ponies.

Janet S — Google review

Very spacious area for the Ponies. You probably won't see them up close but should get at least a view from a distance. There are two elevated viewing decks.

Chris M — Google review

4. Lifeguarded Beach

4.8

(170)

Public beach

Outdoor Activities

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Easily one of the best beaches in the US. This is a spectacular stretch if beach! Technically 12 miles or so long it stretches from Ocracoke inlet to Hatteras inlet. I'm talking about the part close to the town of Ocracoke just passed the airstrip. I've seen whales twice and dolphin pretty much every time I go. There is a well kept changing/bath room and outdoor showers. The boardwalk to the beach features a wheelchair friendly overlook too.

Glenn S — Google review

This beach access has a paved parking lot, restrooms, outdoor water, shower to get the sand off and a long walkway leading to the beach. Pne of the favorite so it’s a little busier but a 15 minute walk north on the beach and your usually alone.

Bennie M — Google review

Love walking along the beach here, miles and miles of undisturbed dunes, turtle nesting area. Small area for swimming with lifeguards in season. Road access for surf fishing a little further south on the beach

Howard C — Google review

Nice stretch of beach with a lifeguard, bathroom, and outdoor shower. As much as you could expect from a free beachfront on the ocean.

Chris F — Google review

Showers there if you need. Can not get you golf cart there. By car only. Not far from the village.

Irena P — Google review

Check weather for rain and rip tides. But the beach is pretty empty and clean. Nice views!

Anubhav H — Google review

Nice beach, can only get there via ferry ⛴️

Adrian M — Google review

The best spot to hit the beach if you don't have a 4WD vehicle. There are bathrooms in the parking lot. They are always clean and well kept. Plenty of space to find a spot to soak up the sun.

M.K. P — Google review

5. Springer's Point Preserve

4.8

(442)

Hiking area

Nature & Parks

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What a great walk. Ride your bike there or take a walk. No parking for carts or cars. Watch the sunset and get some gorgeous views

Sean B — Google review

Quite beach for fishing or just relaxing. About a 10 or 15 min walk from main road. Parking is a good walk maybe 20 mins from beach. It's alot for elderly people. We had to drop everyone off at the start of walking trail and drive to a parking lot a few mins away then walk back to the trail. No parking next to trail. Bit of work getting there. Not good for wheel chairs or those physically challenged. No fees. No bathrooms or food near. Bring bug spray for trail if later in the day mosquitos are bad. Dog friendly.

FeFe B — Google review

Beautiful, short and quick walking trail that is 100% worth the visit if you are in Ocracoke. The views of the sound are breathtaking and the beach is appropriate for little kids.

Natalie N — Google review

Great place. It takes some walking to get to the trail, but don't be lazy. Walking doesnt kill you. Well worth the time.

Sean L — Google review

Don't miss this amazing magical place! I thank everyone who preserved this beautiful area of the island. It is simply astounding. Benches to sit along the way. The green path or the blue path; both lead to the beach or some other part of the nature preserve. I love how they have little markers pointing out the flora and fauna of the area, such as live oak and even for poison ivy! Little stray cats even wander about. The preserve is only open during the day. There is a gate that locks up the path. There are cemeteries all over the island. There is also a cemetery in the middle of the preserve. Everything is absolutely fascinating! What a gem!

Maria D — Google review

A short, flat out and back with lots to see and gorgeous views of the sound. Definitely worth checking out while on the islands. There's no parking at the trailhead, but it's a brief walk from the lot by the lighthouse.

Stefanie A — Google review

A delightful additional stop when visiting Ocracoke village. The trail is short and has a handful of historical footnotes of the island's history. The protected beach is safe from waves with plenty of room for children to safely splash and play. There is some shade, but those that are sun sensitive may want to bring protection on the beach. The trail is almost completely shaded.

Lucas M — Google review

Parking is not good. But it's a short walk to the trail head. The trail is amazing. I felt like it was 1824. The treasure at the end of the trail is well worth the hike at sunset.

Elisha S — Google review

6. Teach's Hole

4.2

(257)

Permanently Closed

Gift shop

Museums

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We were so glad we caught opening day!! Having loved Blackbeard from childhood this was a treat! Very informative and a wonderful assortment of info, exhibits and artwork of him. A great gift shop that honestly has the best prices on the island! Meeting the owners waa honestly highlight of my trip over, sweet people that have a love of fur kids like I do. Cant wait to stop next year!

Jk N — Google review

It was a very detailed and interesting Blackbeard exhibit. It was small & crowded so, it was difficult to move without being on top of people. This particular day a family with 4 kids were in front of us so, you can imagine how loud & distracting it was to concentrate and all over the place they were where you couldn't actually enjoy the exhibit. We had to wait in line after each artifact which there was about 28 things. Like I said it was cool exhibit but, we couldn't enjoy at our own pace because of the small space & overcrowdness. I hope to go back again but this time on a rainy day where it's not crowded.

Sarai — Google review

Fantastic store & Blackbeard exhibit!!! Lots of information & really adorable gifts. Owners are wonderful.

Janelle W — Google review

This is a neat little store/exhibit. I wouldn't suggest the exhibit for kids though because it mostly involves a lot of reading from plaques on walls and in display cases. All in all I found it very informative on Blackbeard and my wife loved the pirate-themed shop. Don't expect a large or even small size museum as this is more of a one-way hallway that stretches about 20-25 feet with mostly reading and about 7 or 8 displays.

David B — Google review

I've been coming to Teach's Hole for years, but up until now, I'd only visited the gift shop to restock on pirate stickers and antenna flags. I'd never gone in the Blackbeard exhibit before, but I'm glad I finally did. I'd always assumed that it would be a cheesy roadside type thing, but it's not that at all. The exhibit is a well put together combination of local art, reproduction pieces, and real artifacts sprinkled with legitimately interesting information about the life of Edward Teach a.k.a. Blackbeard. It's not a big exhibit, but if you take the time to read the signs and watch the videos, you could easily spend 20 min or more here. And, of course, the gift shop has plenty of pirate themed items ranging from plastic swords for the kids to real coins recovered from shipwrecks.

Sean F — Google review

This museum is so neat and informative! My husband and I loved it. Honestly, it was my favorite part of our trip to Ocracoke. If you read everything in the tour walk you will learn a lot. Also, gift shop is super reasonably priced. 5 stars all around.

Laura C — Google review

What a fun place to visit - lots to see in a fairly small place. Nice gift shop.

Laura R — Google review

Cute spot on Ocracoke - fun to visit if it's your first time to the island. It is a gift shop/museum. The museum is really small, but relatively inexpensive. You'll find a few illustrations, wood carvings, wooden ships, and dioramas that showcase the infamous Blackbeard, but I'll admit that I was hoping for a bit more. Still a fun conversation spot - worth checking out.

Jim M — Google review

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Other notable attractions

Ocracoke Preservation Society

Museum

History Museums

Small museum of regional history with artifacts, period decor, rotating exhibits & a gift shop.

Portsmouth

Sights & Landmarks

Ghost Towns

Portsmouth was a fishing and shipping village located on Portsmouth Island on the Core Banks in North Carolina, United States. Portsmouth Island is a tidal island connected, under most conditions, to the northern end of the North Core Banks, across Ocracoke Inlet from the village of Ocracoke. Wikipedia.

Hammock Hills Trail

Hiking area

Outdoor Activities

Anchorage Inn & Marina

Hotel

Nature & Parks

Modern harbor property offering standard rooms (some with views), boat rentals & an outdoor pool.

Over the Moon

Gift shop

Museums

Down Creek Gallery

Art gallery

Museums

Ocracoke Beach Fires

Outdoor activity organiser

Outdoor Activities

Ocracoke

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Sites

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Ocracoke throughout the year

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Weather in Ocracoke

Here's the historical average temperature in Ocracoke over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Ocracoke in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December

Monthly temperature highs and lows in Ocracoke

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Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

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