Ocracoke Vacation Rentals

Outer Banks Fishing Charters & Fishing Guide

Ocracoke Fishing Guide

Vacation Rentals

Visitors are often surprised at the number and variety of weekly vacation rentals throughout the area.. Vacation rentals are, in fact, an increasingly popular accommodation available to vacationers, and visitors will find that the sheer number of rentals available allows them to find an ideal retreat to fit their crew, from quiet condo complexes to brightly colored oceanfront sand castles.

The 10 Best Beach Canopies & Umbrellas for 2025

Beach canopies and umbrellas create shade, lower ambient temperatures and block UV rays on hot, sunny Summer days. Sitting under the canopy of a quality beach umbrella can make the difference between comfort and sweltering. When choosing an umbrella, we look for durability, wind ratings, weight and size.

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse

The Ocracoke Island Lighthouse may not be the most imposing of the Outer Banks lighthouses, but as North Carolina's oldest lighthouse in operation, (and the second oldest in the United States), it is certainly one of the most beloved. At just 65' ft. tall, it is by far the smallest lighthouse on the Outer Banks, but it still towers over the 4 square miles of Ocracoke Village, and its beacon can be spotted up to 14 miles into the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

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Ocracoke Harbor

The Ocracoke Harbor is easily the busiest quarter mile stretch of Ocracoke Island. Consisting of a small, lagoon-like section of saltwater, and lined by a semi-circle of docks, restaurants, shops, marinas and motels, visitors will find that any and all of the activities on Ocracoke Island can most certainly be found harbor front.

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Best Surf Fishing Gear for 2025

Once you have your coastal recreational fishing license in hand, it’s time to start thinking about gear. Anglers will find tons of options when it comes to equipment for casting into the surf, from custom designed rods and reels at local tackle shops, to name brand varieties that are designed for multiple areas along the coastline. Here are just a few of the most popular gear options for surf fishermen. Keep in mind that there are endless options available, and your local bait and tackle store staff will be happy to point you in the right direction if you have any questions about what you’ll need for successful surf fishing in any given area along the North Carolina coastline.

Outer Banks Ferry System

Decades ago, one of the only ways to access some of the most secluded areas of the Outer Banks was via a ferry, and this tradition carries on today for thousands if not millions of visitors who want to travel to some of coastal North Carolina's most famous and off-the-map locales.

Outer Banks Nature Spots

With 150 miles of pristine coastline, and some of the East Coast's largest swaths of undisturbed maritime forest, the Outer Banks is a popular destination for nature lovers. As an important spot on America's "Flyway," which is the route that migrating birds take on their northern and southern treks across the country, the Outer Banks is the temporary home to hundreds of species of birds. Combine this with the number of deer, foxes, waterfowl, fish, turtles, and even alligators, and it's clear that the Outer Banks is truly a wild vacation destination.

Educational Activities

On the Outer Banks, it's easy to throw in a little education in with a vacation filled with fun, adventures, and new explorations.

Ocracoke Fishing Guide

Fishing drives Ocracoke Island's off-season tourism economy, as the beaches are world renowned for excellent surf fishing. Because the island is just 12 miles away from the Gulf Stream, anglers will have easy access to big game offshore catches as well.

Rainy Day Activities

No need for a rainy day to dampen the fun on Ocracoke Island. These rainy day activities will ensure that vacationers of all ages will have a blast without the beach.

Ocracoke Ferry System

Ocracoke is separated from the rest of the world by the 20+ mile wide Pamlico Sound, which means that the only way to access the island is via a personal vessel, or more commonly, by a North Carolina State Ferry.

Outer Banks Lighthouses

Each of the Outer Banks five lighthouses is unique. For a beautiful view, visitors can climb Currituck Beach Light, Bodie Island Light and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for a small fee in season. It's an unforgettable way to see the Outer Banks! Don't forget to bring your camera, as these unique structures and surrounding grounds are some of the most picturesque and iconic attractions in the area.

The 8 Best Beach Blankets and Towels for 2025

If you're planning a relaxing day on the beach, a great beach blanket is a must-have piece of gear. We've curated a list of highly-rated beach blankets, each selected for its unique features, quality, and durability. From lightweight, compact options to large, family-sized choices, we've got you covered. Dive in as we explore the various materials, designs, and functionalities that make these beach blankets stand out.

Top 10 Things to do on the Outer Banks

Every vacation destination has its own unique draw to potential visitors, whether it's a national monument, a fantastic shopping or dining scene, or an exotic locale that's meant for total relaxation. Many newcomers to the Outer Banks are surprised to learn that this destination has all of these attributes and more, and it can be hard to narrow down the overflowing list of "must-sees" or "must-dos" that have to be squeezed into a 1-2 week OBX vacation.

Outer Banks Fishing Charters & Fishing Guide

Long before the summer vacationing families discovered the Outer Banks as a hot tourist destination, fishermen from across the country flocked to coastal North Carolina. With no roads to navigate, and no vacation homes to stay in, anglers would brave the makeshift sandy paths that ran along thebeaches, and would set up makeshift campsites whenever there was protection from the wind and waves. They went through great efforts to visit the Outer Banks for one reason: Exceptional fishing.

Outer Banks Museums

The Outer Banks is rich in history, from the early explorers who first set foot on its shores 400 years ago to the groundbreaking first flight that launched modern aviation. Every community has a story and a resonant heritage, and as a result, the Outer Banks is home to a number of locally and nationally renowned museums honoring the area's unique stories, culture and landmarks.

Outer Banks 2025 Vacations - Wide Open Spaces

The Outer Banks offers plenty of opportunities for a healthy, family fun vacation. Visitors can spread out over more than 100 miles of pristine shoreline. Local restaurants and eateries are providing abundant take-out and delivery options. Kids are distance learning from the beach! Also, there’s no risk of boredom with our list of social-distancing compatible activities! It’s no wonder that vacationers are turning to the Outer Banks for a fun, relaxing, and safe vacation during the COVID-19 global pandemic. Here are our picks for outdoor attractions, parks and activities where it’s easy to maintain social distancing guidelines while having 100% of the fun.

The 7 Best Beach & Fishing Coolers 2025

Nothing beats an ice-cold beverage while relaxing on the beach. Nothing is worse than reaching for an icy drink and finding your cans swimming. Coolers are essential for family days on the sand. A good modern cooler will keep food and drinks fresh for days. In addition to beverages, fishermen rely coolers to keep bait fresh, and hopefully the catch of the day. Walk onto any beach or pier in North or South Carolina and you’ll see a plethora of cooler models and sizes. Cooler technology has advanced rapidly in modern years. Top-end hard-sided coolers can keep ice frozen for a week. Soft coolers are easier for one person to carry onto a beach, but can still keep food cool for days. Cooler materials and price points vary wildly, so we put together this guide with our recommendations for your coastal vacation.

Outer Banks Milepost System

Many newcomers to the Outer Banks who are browsing the local restaurants, shops and area attractions online or in the local guide books notice an interesting addition to the standard address. Besides the typical business name, street name, street number and town, many local businesses also include a Milepost number. This may initially appear to be an odd notation to include, but on the Outer Banks, this is incredibly helpful to new visitors on the lookout for a specific restaurant or shop.

Activities for Kids

There may not be any major amusement parks or shopping malls on Ocracoke Island, but kids seem to have no problem staying entertained. On your next Ocracoke Island vacation, be sure and visit these fun, educational and altogether engaging kid-friendly Ocracoke activities and destinations.

Outer Banks Swimming Guide

Swimming is a local sport that never goes out of style on the Outer Banks, and with literally miles of ocean and sound waters to paddle around, there's no shortage of refreshing locales to enjoy a dip. Vacationers will find they have their choice of swimming destinations, from the fun and challenging ocean waves, to the shallow splashing waters of the sound, to the assortment of public and community pools found all along the islands.

Ocracoke Island NC

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, is a remote and enchanting destination at the southern end of the Outer Banks. Accessible only by vehicle ferry, passenger ferry (seasonally), private boat, or small plane, the island has maintained a sense of isolation and charm that makes it feel worlds away from the bustle of modern life. For first-time visitors, Ocracoke offers a unique blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and small-town atmosphere that sets it apart from every other spot on the coast.

Ocracoke Island NC

The island is roughly 16 miles long but only about a mile wide in most places. Its only village - Ocracoke Village - is located at the southern tip, clustered around Silver Lake Harbor. This is where most of the island's year-round residents live and where visitors will find lodging, restaurants, shops, and attractions, all tucked into shaded streets lined with live oaks, picket fences, and bicycles.

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse NC

Accommodations on Ocracoke are varied, with a focus on smaller-scale, independently owned options. Vacation rental homes are a popular choice, many located within walking or biking distance of the harbor and village attractions. These rentals range from rustic cottages to modern coastal homes with decks and water views. The island also offers a selection of small inns, boutique hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts that provide a more personal and intimate experience. Several campgrounds near the northern beaches allow for tent and RV camping, including sites nestled among dunes or pine forests.

What makes Ocracoke especially appealing is its slower pace. Many visitors park their cars upon arrival and spend the rest of their stay walking, biking, or riding golf carts - the preferred mode of island transportation. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and deeply connected to the island's long seafaring history.

Ocracoke Island Express Ferry NC

One of the most popular attractions is Ocracoke's pristine beach, which stretches for miles along the Atlantic coast. Protected as part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the beach is undeveloped and wide, offering soft sand, gentle waves, and a sense of solitude that's increasingly rare. It's a perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, shell hunting, or simply relaxing away from the crowds. Off-road vehicle access is available in designated areas with a permit, and surf fishing is popular throughout the year.

Ocracoke Island NC

The village itself is a delight to explore. Visitors can stroll along the harborfront, stop at locally owned shops and galleries, or visit historical sites like the Ocracoke Lighthouse - the second-oldest operating lighthouse in the country. Its white tower stands as a peaceful sentinel over the village and is a favorite photo spot. Another landmark is the British Cemetery, a small but poignant memorial to sailors from a World War II naval battle just offshore.

Nature and wildlife are central to the Ocracoke experience. The island is home to marshes, maritime forests, and tidal creeks, all of which can be explored on foot, by kayak, or via guided boat tours. Birdwatchers will find a rich variety of species, particularly during migration seasons. Visitors may also spot dolphins offshore or see the island's famous wild ponies, believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs that survived shipwrecks centuries ago. These ponies are kept in a protected area just north of the village.

Ocracoke Island NC

Activities: Fishing, boating, and paddling are popular ways to enjoy the water. Charter boats offer inshore and offshore trips, while kayaks and paddleboards provide a quiet way to explore the soundside shallows and hidden coves. Crabbing and clamming are traditional pastimes that some local outfitters help visitors try for themselves.

Ocracoke Island NC

Dining on Ocracoke is relaxed and locally focused. Restaurants serve fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and seasonal dishes, often with harbor views or outdoor seating. Ice cream shops, bakeries, and coffee spots are scattered throughout the village, perfect for a slow morning or a treat after a beach day.

Cultural life on the island is rich despite its size. Ocracoke has a long history of storytelling, folk music, and craftsmanship. Visitors might catch live music at a local venue or attend a small community festival. Local museums and preservation groups offer insights into the island's pirate legends, shipwrecks, and early settlement - many tied to the infamous Blackbeard, who met his end just off Ocracoke's shores in 1718.

Ocracoke Island NC

Getting to the island is part of the adventure. Most visitors arrive via the NCDOT state-run ferry system, which offers scenic rides from Hatteras, Swan Quarter, or Cedar Island. The ferry from Hatteras is free and runs frequently, while the longer routes from the mainland are paid services and require reservations. These ferry rides set the tone for what's to come: unhurried travel, scenic views, and a step away from the everyday.

For those looking to disconnect, unwind, and immerse themselves in a setting where nature, history, and community come together, Ocracoke Island is a rare find. Its mix of untouched beaches, historic charm, and quiet hospitality creates an experience unlike any other on the Outer Banks. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or a weeklong stay, Ocracoke invites you to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and enjoy a coastal retreat that feels timeless and true.