26 Best & Fun Things To Do In Ocracoke, NC
Do you like to travel and have fun? Are you planning a trip to Ocracoke, North Carolina, and want to know the best and most fun things to do there? Your quest is now over! We’ll talk about fun things to do in Ocracoke that will make your trip and time there worth it.
The village of Ocracoke is at the southernmost point of Ocracoke Island. It is in Hyde County, in the beautiful Outer Banks area of North Carolina’s coast. Getting to the Island is a journey in and of itself.
The village is on one of the Outer Banks’ most remote islands, so the only ways to get there are by ship, private boat, or private jet. No road connects it to the mainland. Ocracoke is known as the Pearl of the Outer Banks because it has a unique and peaceful beach vibe.
The island is about 16 miles long and has a lot of fun things to do at the beach, as well as interesting history and beautiful views. You can’t miss the delicious restaurants, and the beautiful beaches will make your trip memorable.
Jump right into the fun and find out what the best things to do in Ocracoke, NC are. This beautiful town has something for everyone. The view from the Ocracoke Lighthouse near Silver Lake is stunning, and the beaches and nature preserves are fun and beautiful.
29 Fun and Awesome Things To Do In Ocracoke, North Carolina
1. Ocracoke Island Ferry
Getting to Ocracoke starts with taking a boat across to the island. People who have been to Ocracoke say that the fun starts before they even get there. Since boats are the only way to get to Ocracoke, most visitors use the North Carolina Ferry System to get there.
You can take one of three ferries to get to Ocracoke. The trips take between one and two hours each. People can leave their cars at the dock and walk around the boat, taking in the beautiful views of the Pamlico Sound.
The ferries have bathrooms and lounges with air conditioning, which makes them a nice place to watch the scenery. You can also enjoy the company of birds, which often fly with the boats across the sound.
Address: Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
Lifeguard Beach is the only beach on Ocracoke with lifeguards stationed year-round, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s a great place to spend time with your family because it has clean sand.
It is known as one of the best beaches on the Outer Banks and has a lot of space, easy entry, parking, and different things to do on the beach. Driving on the beach is a popular thing to do on Ocracoke Beach. But licenses are needed, and you can get them from the National Park Service.
At one part of the beach, there is a lifeguard who will make sure your kids can swim in the ocean without any worries.
There is a pet water fountain, a beach access ramp that is accessible by wheelchair, and viewing platforms at this site.
When you go to the beach, you can do a lot of different kinds of fun things, like swimming, sunbathing, having lunch, hiking, fishing, boating, and camping.
Address: Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
Since it opened in 1823, the Ocracoke Lighthouse has been in use. It is the oldest working lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest in the state.
Among the Outer Banks lighthouses, Ocracoke is unique because it is an inlet light instead of a coastal signal. Its main job is to keep ships safe as they navigate the complicated seas of Ocracoke Inlet.
Even though navigation technology has improved, the lantern is still needed because the inlet and its shoals are always changing.
It’s easy to find the lighthouse because it’s 72 feet tall and everything is close by.
People can look around at the base of the tower and check out the ground, but they can’t climb up to the top for safety reasons.
Address: 360 Lighthouse Road, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
People who like hiking and being outside can go on a trip to the Springer’s Point Preserve in Ocracoke, North Carolina.
Springer’s Point is famous for being where Edward Teach, better known as the infamous pirate Blackbeard, lived. It is now a beautiful 132-acre nature park on Ocracoke Island that includes maritime forests, wetlands, and coastal areas.
The ecosystem of this beautiful preserve is very varied, with hiking trails, a maritime forest, red cedar forests, grasslands, salt marshes, and lots of wildlife.
Since there are no parking spots at Springer’s Point Preserve itself, it is easiest to park at the Ocracoke Lighthouse and take a beautiful walk from there.
Visit this wildlife preserve and go for a walk through the beautiful scenery. A quiet stretch of beach runs along the sound, making it a great place for kids to play in the calm water.
Address: 104 Loop Road, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
5. Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum
Visit the Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum to learn about the past. It’s free and fun to do with kids in Ocracoke, NC.
The Ocracoke Preservation Society Museum is in a house that is 100 years old. It protects the island’s unique history and lively culture through a mix of fixed and changing exhibitions, both inside and outside, that show how people lived on the island in the past.
In addition to the museum, there is a gift shop with unique souvenirs and a study library with a large collection of books and photographs.
During the summer, museum staff give talks on the back porch that are very interesting and teach people about the island’s history, culture, and customs.
Even though the museum is closed for the winter, the staff keeps working to digitally archive texts, pictures, and other important items. This way, Ocracoke’s history will be around for future generations.
Address: 49 Water Plant Road, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
One fun thing to do in Ocracoke, North Carolina, is to visit the village Heroes British Cemetery. This is a beautiful place where British Royal Navy sailors who died in World War 11 are remembered.
People who come to this cemetery can remember the sailors’ memories and pay their respects. They can also learn about the Ocracoke’s history.
It is held every year by the National Park Service, the US Coast Guard, and the British Navy to remember the men who died in the attack.
Address: 234 British Cemetery Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
7. Pony Pen
A 188-acre area of land can be found on the sound side of the island, about seven miles north of Ocracoke Village. The group of Ocracoke Banker Ponies lives in this area, behind a wooden fence.
The Ocracoke Pony Pens are a fascinating look into the history of the island. As people get closer, they’ll see a raised platform that gives them a better view of the beautiful ponies as they walk around in their pen.
These horses are known as one of the best things to see on the island, and anyone can get to them quickly by going to the National Park Service’s Ocracoke Pony Pen.
The Ocracoke Pony Pens have their parking area, which is conveniently located across from another parking spot that leads to the beach. Pony Pen should be on your list of things to do in Ocracoke, NC.
Address: NC-12, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
8. Ocracoke Island Visitors Center
Are you looking for a tourist center where you can get useful information and have a great time all day? One more fun thing to do in Ocracoke, NC is to check out the Ocracoke Island Visitors Center.
The Ocracoke Island Visitors Center is a key hub for tourists. It is located between the Cedar Island and Swan Quarter Ferry Docks. Visitors can find a lot of useful information here, like ferry schedules, maps, and exhibits with interesting facts about the island’s past and natural beauty.
The center also has a variety of gifts to remember your visit, as well as restrooms and other useful facilities to make sure that everyone has a pleasant and educational stop.
The Ocracoke Island Visitors Center is a great place to learn more about the Ocracoke way of life, the rules that apply there, and the interesting places to see.
Address: 38 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
9. Hammack Hills Nature Trial
Taking a slow walk on the Hammock Hills Nature Trail is a fun and different thing to do with your family in Ocracoke, NC.
This ¾-mile walking trail winds through the peaceful scenery of Ocracoke Island, taking you on a fun adventure through a wide range of landscapes and amazing views. As you walk along the path, you’ll feel like you’re in the peaceful embrace of a pine forest, with light filtering through the trees above.
Also, take in the breathtaking views of the Pamlico Sound and the vast salt marshes below, which give you a glimpse of the island’s natural beauty.
With its easy terrain and family-friendly setting, the Hammock Hills Nature Trail is a great place for people of all ages to go on a hike. Pets are also welcome as long as they are on a leash.
Address: Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
10. Outer Bank National Scenic Byways
One fun and exciting thing to do in Ocracoke, NC, is to start a trip along the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway. This 138-mile journey takes you through 21 charming coastal villages, and two scenic ferry crossings, and offers views of the ocean that you can’t get anywhere else.
The byway starts at Whalebone Junction in Nags Head and runs through beautiful scenery and historic towns, giving visitors a taste of the area’s rich cultural history and natural beauty.
As the trip goes on, every turn and twist shows a different scene of coastal beauty, from windswept dunes to calm marshes, all set by the Atlantic Ocean.
It is known as one of the most beautiful drives in North Carolina and has an unmatched mix of coastal charm and natural beauty. The Outer Banks National Scenic Byway is the best way to experience the real essence of North Carolina’s coastal history.
Address: Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
11. Books To Be Red
Books to be Red has been open since 1995 and is tucked away among live oaks and shady cedar trees on Ocracoke Island.
Books to be Red has been Ocracoke’s only full-service independent bookstore since it opened. It has a wide range of new, used, regional, and children’s books.
Going to Books to be Red is one of the fun things to do in Ocracoke with kids. It’s a whole room full of kids’ books, toys, board games, and fun things to do.
There is also a carefully chosen collection of arts and crafts tools ready for you to use on rainy beach days or when the island’s natural beauty inspires you to be creative.
Not only does this site have books, but it also has a lovely gift shop with Deepwater pottery, jewelry, candles, and soaps that smell great.
Address: 34 School Road, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
12. Portsmouth Village
A fun and interesting thing to do near Ocracoke, NC, is to go to Portsmouth Village. Portsmouth Village is on Portsmouth Island, which is just south of Ocracoke. It shows how the village used to be when it was a busy fishing and shipping hub.
Today, this historic area has been carefully kept as a protected site of archaeological and cultural importance, complete with a tourist center.
Visitors can take a boat to get to Portsmouth Island, where they can see displays that clearly show how fishermen and their families used to live.
For those who want a more immersive experience, camping is possible on the beautiful beaches of Portsmouth Village. This lets tourists connect with nature while hearing the sounds of the past.
Address: Portsmouth Village, NC, United States.
13. Down Creek Gallery
Down Creek Gallery is a great trove of fine art and crafts from over 100 artists from the Outer Banks and North Carolina. It is located on the beautiful waterfront of Ocracoke Village.
The store has a huge selection of one-of-a-kind items that would make great gifts or beautiful home decor. This waterfront spot in Ocracoke Village is a haven of beauty and creativity, with everything from cute flowers to stunning works of art.
One of the best things for art lovers to do in Ocracoke, NC is to go to Down Creek Gallery.
Address: 260 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
14. Deepwater Theatre
One of the most fun things to do in Ocracoke, NC, at night is to go to the Deepwater Theater.
The Deepwater Theater and Music Hall is an important part of showcasing the island’s rich cultural history because it is the official home of the well-known arts group Ocracoke Alive.
In the summer, this site has a wide range of concerts, shows, and other special events, so people of all ages can always find something fun to do.
The famous Deepwater Theater and Music Hall on Ocracoke Island is a great place to spend an evening learning about local history and culture and having fun.
Address: 84 School Road, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
15. Ocracoke Island Golf Cart
Taking a trip through Ocracoke Village in style on an open-air electric golf cart is another family-friendly thing to do in Ocracoke, NC.
These environmentally friendly cars make it easy and fun to see the village’s cute streets and beautiful views.
Ocracoke Island Golf Carts has been around since 2010 but is only open every day from March 15th to November.
You can explore Ocracoke Village on one of these electric golf carts by yourself or take a relaxed ride with family and friends. Either way, you’ll never forget the beauty and charm of the village. So get on board and start the journey!
Address: 216 Irvin Garrish HWY, Ocracoke, NC, United States.
16. Ocracoke Ghost And History Work
The Down Point and ‘Round Creek Tours are one of the most interesting things to do in Ocracoke, NC, at night. They tell stories about the island’s past and ghosts.
With experienced guides like Amy Howard and David Tweedie, these tours give you an interesting look into the island’s history and scary stories.
There are two tours you can choose from: the Down Point Tour, which tells stories from the Lighthouse side of the island, or the Round Creek Tour, which tells stories from around Historic Howard Street.
For more scary stories, go to Ocracoke Beach Fires on Thursday nights for Ghost Stories around the Campfire on the beach.
Join us for an evening of wonder and intrigue that you will never forget, where history and ghost stories come together to make an unforgettable experience.
Address: Ocracoke, NC, United States.
17. Mermaid’s Folly
If you want to go shopping uniquely, visit the Mermaid’s Folly. This cute store is a haven for people who love the ocean because it has so many cute clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and more that are all related to the ocean.
If you’re looking for a fun souvenir to remember your time on Ocracoke Island or a unique beach-themed gift for someone you care about, Mermaid’s Folly is the place to go.
There is a treasure trove of coastal treats waiting to be found, from accessories with seashells on them to nautical-themed home decor.
At Mermaid’s Folly, you can enjoy the coastal charm and look around until you drop. Every item there is a memory of the beauty and magic of the sea.
Address: 259 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
18. Ocracoke Seafood Company
Since it opened in 2006, the Ocracoke Seafood Co. has been one of the last fish houses on Ocracoke Island, carrying on a practice while helping the community.
The Ocracoke Foundation owns and runs the ship. The Foundation is a local group that helps watermen and women in the area.
The Ocracoke Seafood Co. is an important hub for more than thirty watermen and women from Ocracoke and nearby coastal towns. They make sure that seafood from the ocean gets straight to your dinner table.
The market has more than just fresh seafood. It also has things like T-shirts, clothes, and other gift items, making it more than just a seafood market.
At the Ocracoke Seafood Co., you can choose from a variety of fun activities, enjoy the freshest seafood, and take home a unique island souvenir. The restaurant celebrates Ocracoke Island’s rich marine history.
Address: 416 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
19. Ocracoke Parasail
There are also some unique and fun things to do in Ocracoke, North Carolina. Take a tour of the island on the Ocracoke Parasail with family and friends.
With Ocracoke Parasail, you can take your beach time to a whole new level with a journey that is out of this world. Let the local experts in high-flying take you on an exciting flight with amazing views and heart-pounding action.
Feel free to fly high and enjoy the beautiful views of Ocracoke Island and the water around it from a different angle.
Whether you’ve been parasailing before or this is your first time, Ocracoke Parasail offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you amazed and excited.
Address: 180 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States.
20. Anchorage Marina
The Anchorage Inn and Marina is right on Silver Lake in the middle of Ocracoke Village. It has amazing views of one of the most beautiful settings in the world.
Because it is right on the water, the inn has stunning views, which are especially mesmerizing during the beautiful sunset hours.
The Anchorage Inn and Marina is a 35-room, four-story hotel on Silver Lake’s harbor. It’s the perfect place to start your adventures on Ocracoke Island.
The fourth floor has full balconies, and the fifth floor has two suites with full kitchens and private patios. Guests can enjoy beautiful views and high-class accommodations. This waterfront haven has rooms that are pet-friendly, a pool, and a summer outdoor café that add to its appeal.
Anchorage has bike rentals for people who want to get out and see more. This makes it easy to get to the island’s historic sites, like the Ocracoke Lighthouse and places connected to the famous pirate Blackbeard.
Address: 205 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
21. Zillie’s Island Pantry
After work, everyone needs a place to unwind. Why not do it with a drink in your hand? One fun and relaxing thing to do in Ocracoke, NC is to check out Zillie’s Island Pantry, which is the place to go for beer and wine lovers who want to relax with a drink in a nice setting.
There are a lot of wines, beers, and microbrews from all over the world, as well as some favorites from North Carolina, so you’re sure to find the right drink for you.
Additionally, Zillie’s sells a tasty range of cheeses, deli meats, cigars, and small snacks, making sure that every guest has a complete experience.
Zillie’s is a great place to relax and enjoy the better things in life, whether you want to take your treats to go or eat them on their delightful patio.
Address: 538 Back Road, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
22. Ocracoke Island Harbor
Island Harbor, which is right in the middle of Ocracoke, NC, is a fun place to spend time with family or friends. This busy harbor on Silver Lake is a lively center with lots of restaurants, cute shops, art galleries, and private fishing companies.
People love buying at Ocracoke because it has so many different kinds of stores. There are cute tourist shops, antique shops, and art galleries with original works on display.
The Jolly Roger, an iconic spot that has been entertaining tourists for decades, is one of the island’s famous places to visit. This well-known restaurant has a gorgeous view of Silver Lake and serves delicious fish, ice cream, and cool drinks for adults.
The Jolly Roger has a great site and a private marina. Guests can relax on the patio, where they can enjoy their treats while taking in the view of the busy harbor.
Address: Ocracoke, NC, United States.
23. Ocracoke Island Campground
Exploring the Ocracoke Campground is one of the special things you can do outside in Ocracoke, NC.
This campground is on the west end of Ocracoke Island. It’s open all year and can accommodate tents, campers, RVs, and other separate sleeping cars that are up to 40 feet long.
The Ocracoke Park has 136 sites spread out over four loops, so there is plenty of room for both tents and RVs.
Each site can fit up to six people, two tents, two vehicles, or one vehicle and a trailer. This makes sure that everyone who comes can have a nice and easy camping experience.
On top of that, each campground has modern features like bathrooms, an outdoor shower, a picnic table, grills, and other things to make your stay more fun.
It’s easy to get to the beach from the site. Several well-worn paths go along the ocean side.
24. Graveyard Of The Atlantic Museum
Going on an exciting trip to the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum is a free thing to do near Ocracoke, NC.
The Graveyard of the Atlantic is a museum about shipwrecks that have happened along the coast of the Outer Banks. It has a lot of interesting nautical history.
There are many interesting displays with ships, wreckage, artifacts, and other things that give you information about the area’s long nautical history.
There is a fun scavenger hunt for kids and families that goes around the museum. You can look for secret treasures and clues and win a prize upon completion.
Please remember that the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum is closed for repairs right now, and there is no date set for when it will reopen.
Address: 59200 Museum Drive, Hatteras, NC 27943 United States.
25. Ocracoke Oyster Company
The Ocracoke Oyster Company serves the best oysters and other seafood dishes caught in the area.
In their fig wood smoker, they make classic American BBQ that will make your mouth water. You’ll have a great time eating at this family-friendly restaurant, whether you like fish or barbecue.
The Ocracoke Oyster Company has a full bar, lots of patio furniture, and lawn games for you to enjoy the coastal setting. This cute restaurant on the water has something that everyone will enjoy, whether they’re with family or friends.
Address: 621 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
26. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
One of the unique things to do near Ocracoke, NC, is to explore the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. This site is one of the most famous landmarks in the Outer Banks, and people come from all over to be amazed by its height.
It is proud to be the tallest lighthouse in America, standing at 198 feet tall. Its striking black and white stripe design makes it stand out.
People like to visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse because it has a great view from the top.
If you can’t walk the 269 steps, you can take a virtual tour that lets you see inside and the amazing views from the top.
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must-see on any Outer Banks trip, whether you’re just going through on your way to Ocracoke or looking at it from afar.
Address: 46379 Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC 27920, United States
27. 1718 Brewing Ocracoke
After a fun-filled day, come to 1718 Brewing, Ocracoke’s best brewery, to unwind and relax. Using ingredients from nearby farms, they make a wide range of beers that are perfect for beach parties.
As one of the many fun things to do in Ocracoke, NC, try their tasty menu of small plates, tacos, and sliders, which goes well with their handcrafted beers.
You can enjoy live music, open mic nights, comedy shows, and other events in a lively setting. Do not miss the chance to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and great drinks at 1718 Brewing.
Address: 1129 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
28. Frisco American Museum & Natural History Center
Located in Frisco, North Carolina, about an hour’s boat ride from Ocracoke, exploring the Frisco American Museum and Natural History Center is one of the fun things to do near Ocracoke.
The museum offers more than just indoor exhibits. It holds a rich cultural heritage and houses a nationally recognized collection of artifacts, exhibits, and natural history displays.
Wander through galleries adorned with native art and immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of Native Americans across the United States. Explore artifacts from the first inhabitants of Hatteras Island, gaining insights into their lives and traditions.
Explore outdoors and stroll along several acres of nature trails that wind through a lush maritime forest. As you walk through this tranquil setting, you’ll discover the natural beauty that has long captivated visitors to the Outer Banks.
Address: 53536 North Carolina Hwy 12, Frisco, NC 27936, United States
29. Eduardo’s Mexican Cuisine
Located by the Ocracoke Harbor Inn, Eduardo’s beckons with its vibrant window-service food truck offering mouthwatering authentic Mexican street eats, breakfast delights, and locally sourced seafood. Each dish is expertly crafted and bursting with flavor, promising a culinary journey like no other.
Take a seat and enjoy the benches outside, savoring every bite as you soak in the picturesque surroundings of Ocracoke Harbor.
Whether you’re craving a savory breakfast taco or craving the freshness of local seafood, Eduardo’s is sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you craving more.
Address: 10 Lawton Ln, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States