Hey all, Dana, your wanderlusting traveler here on an Ocracoke Island adventure, and I am about to share my Ocracoke Island Guide with you, but first, I have something to ask you: Have you ever been dubbed a ‘Coke head’? No, not that kind! It’s the affectionate nickname for those who’ve experienced the magic of Ocracoke Island.
And after my recent escapade, I’m a proud club member. I want to share my adventure on Ocracoke Island with you so you can use my tips and tricks to plan your trip to what I consider the hidden gem in the Outer Banks.
If you miss the visit, I think you’ll miss more of the mark of appreciating the Outer Banks, so diverse, so natural, and so much more than you can imagine.
For some, this might be a one-and-done. For others, it might tease you to the point of wanting to spend your next trip to the OBX on Ocracoke Island instead of in the Hatteras Villages.
The only thing I can definitely tell you is if you are going, plan it, do it, and go while all the other beach-goers are still sleeping off their sunburn aftermath!
If nothing else, take a ride on the Ocracoke Ferry to visit Ocracoke Island to check it off your bucket list, and my bet is you’ll be back!
Make sure to print your free seashell coloring sheets too, just to whisk you along in your Outer Banks journey!
Table of Contents
The Journey Begins
The day dawned with a plan to explore Ocracoke Island. We were staying in Hatteras this time, and well, we were nice and close, especially considering we wanted to get the Ocracoke Ferry early, making this the perfect day trip.
While this was not a planned trip to Ocracoke Island, had these kind people not shared the Island tips with us, I would not have gone, but my kids were so excited and entranced with the idea of visiting a secluded island that I could not say no!
We hit Highway 12, heading South to Hatteras Inlet, following the signs and the advice of some friendly locals I’d chatted with while dining.
The locals we spoke to raved about the island’s beauty, insisting on an early Tuesday visit. So, with a car full of excitement (and kids), we embarked on our adventure. The adventure led me to write this very popular blog post for the Ocracoke Island Guide.
You will not find me dishing about restaurants or great attractions; this is NOT what Ocracoke is about. Instead, it’s a fun day trip where nature is at your fingertips all day long, and you’ll find notable locals and a good getaway from your Outer Banks beach getaway!
I won’t pretend to know everything, as there is a lot on this little island, but I am happy to hopefully answer some of your questions through our adventure and experiences.
The Ocracoke Ferry: More Than Just A Ride
The ferry isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s an experience. It was the last free car ferry in the U.S., and the excitement among passengers was palpable.
The idea of driving our SUV onto a ferry, cruising for an hour, and exploring an island was exhilarating. Even if you’re not island-bound, take the ferry ride. It’s a bucket-list-worthy adventure.
Ocracoke Island Guide: Tips for the Ferry
Here’s what I can share about taking the Ocracoke ferry to Ocracoke Island. I toted 3 kids under age 13 by myself, so you can do this!
- Early Bird Gets the Worm: Arrive early, especially from Wednesday to the weekend. The OBX doesn’t really wake up till after 9 AM, so beat the rush.
- Rest Up: There’s a restroom at the ferry point. Use it before boarding, especially if you’re with kids.
- Weather Watch: Check the forecast. Storms can delay or cancel ferry rides. Plus, you don’t want to be caught in a downpour.
- Stay Informed: Chat with the guest service folks at the ferry point. They’re a treasure trove of information.
- Ferry Styles: From spacious seating to tight squeezes, each ferry has its own character. And yes, 18-wheelers share the ride, making for some nail-biting moments!
- Safety First: Life jackets and bathrooms are onboard. And while I didn’t use either, it’s comforting to know they’re there. Listen to the Captain’s instructions; they’re not just for show!
- Big Rigs On Board: These large trucks are Ocracoke’s lifeline, bringing in essential supplies. So, if an 18-wheeler rolls up beside you, give them a nod of respect. They’re lighter on the return, having offloaded their goods.
There’s An Alternative To The Ocracoke Ferry, BTW
For the longest time, you could get back and forth to Ocracoke Island by the free Ferry and bring your car, van, or whatever you drive along, but things have changed!
Like a trip up to Put-In-Bay, Ohio, where you can take Miller Ferries or The Jet Express, each serving a different function, you can do the same heading to Ocracoke.
An Express boat will get you to the village via Silver Lake Terminal without worrying about a car, where you could rent a golf cart or a bike. It’s $15 round trip, and it takes just 30 minutes, not 45-1 hour. You’ll leave your car in the lot where you catch the Ocracoke Express Ferry.
So you’ve got options, and to me, taking the Express ferry saves the time and hassle of taking a car you won’t be using once you get there, but that’s me!
Ocracoke Village: Where The Magic Happens
Once you disembark, the island beckons. The village is about 15 minutes away, with the journey offering views of endless sand dunes and the vast ocean. But the real charm lies in the village itself.
The Ocracoke Lighthouse: A Picture-Perfect Stop
Now, let’s chat about the Ocracoke Lighthouse. This isn’t your typical climb-to-the-top kind of lighthouse, but oh boy, does it make for some Instagram-worthy snaps!
Nestled amidst a cluster of Live Oaks, this stark white beauty has stood tall since 1823, making it the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina. And while you can’t shimmy up to the top, you can absolutely roll up in your golf cart, strike a pose, and capture that perfect shot.
A tidbit for the history buffs: this lighthouse was crucial back then, guiding ships through the Ocracoke Inlet, a hotspot for pirates like the infamous Blackbeard. And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the historic keepers’ quarters.
Parking might be tight during peak season, but that’s what those golf carts and bikes are for, right? So, make sure this iconic spot is on your Ocracoke bucket list!
Moms and Dads, this is an excellent backdrop for a Holiday Card. 🙂 If you can get them to smile, good luck!
Ocracoke Island Guide: Things to Do
While you are on Ocracoke island, you’ll find your own thing to do; there’s plenty, but here are a few suggestions that, while they seem essential, will kickstart your trip.
- Dining: Ocracoke offers a culinary journey for every palate, from seafood shacks to upscale dining.
- Sightseeing: Don’t miss out on the iconic Ocracoke Lighthouse.
- And while you’re at it, the wild ponies are a must-see too!
- Golf Cart Cruising: Sometimes, it’s not about the destination but the journey. Rent a golf cart on Ocracoke Island and enjoy the drive. Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face.
- Shopping: Whether it’s souvenirs or something unique for yourself, the village shops have got you covered.
- Shelling: Ready for a treasure hunt? Ocracoke’s beaches are a haven for shell enthusiasts. There’s always something to discover, from the elusive Scotch Bonnet (North Carolina’s state shell) to whelks, moon shells, and the ever-popular sand dollars. So, grab a bucket and start your collection!
Ocracoke Island Guide: Wild Ponies
Hey, did you know about the wild ponies of Ocracoke? Rumor has it there are about 20 of these beauties roaming around. But remember, they’re wild!
No touching, approaching, or feeding. Just watch and enjoy from a distance. And if you’re a horse enthusiast like me, you might want to check out my Corolla Wild Horses story. It’s a deep dive into experiencing these majestic creatures in the OBX.
Ocracoke Island Guide: Getting Around After The Ocracoke Ferry Or Express
- Golf Carts: The MVP of Ocracoke transport. With narrow streets, parking can be a challenge for cars. Golf carts, however, are nimble, fun, and perfect for the island vibe. We zipped around, visiting the iconic Ocracoke Lighthouse, quaint shops, and eateries. And remember, don’t speed! The police won’t hesitate to slap you with a DUI.
- Walking: I would’ve chosen walking if I hadn’t been nursing a foot injury. The village is compact, and every corner has a story.
- Biking Around Ocracoke Once you’ve made the journey from the ferry to the island, consider renting a bike. It’s a fabulous way to get around, feel the breeze, and enjoy sights. Plus, it’s eco-friendly! Pedal your way through the village, to the beach, or wherever the winding roads take you.
Eats & Treats
- Allergen-Free & Vegetarian Options: Ocracoke surprised me with its range. There’s something for everyone, from vegetarian walking tacos to all-beef hot dogs.
- Sweet Delights: Ice cream parlors dot the village. Whether you’re a soft-serve fan or love a good old scoop, Ocracoke has you covered.
Shopping
The village boasts charming shops, perfect for souvenirs. I snagged some beautiful Christmas ornaments featuring the lighthouse.
Packing for a Day Trip to Ocracoke
Since you will be leaving the OBX officially and heading to an Island (sounds cool, right? ), you’ll want to pack a bag to go because there are things you might need and not really think about, so I’ll do the thinking for you based on our trips back and forth to the magical Ocracoke Island.
Before you set foot on Ocracoke, ensure you have the essentials.
First, if you’re beach-bound, slip into that bathing suit (trust me, changing spots are rare). But remember, eateries and bars need you to be a tad decent – so pack a shirt and shoes.
Flip-flops are your best friends here. Toss in some sunscreen, a towel, and maybe a hat to keep that sun at bay. And while there are places to grab a bite or a drink, having some water on hand is always a good idea.
Oh, and cash? It is always handy for those little island purchases, but many places take cc’s, too, but cash is nice for tips, etc.
The Ocracoke Experience And Back The Ocracoke Ferry
As the day ended, we returned our golf cart and returned to the Ocracoke ferry. Naturally, there was a line of vehicles going back, and on the way back, we were on a different ferry and not one we enjoyed, to be truthful.
The journey back was a time for reflection, reliving the day’s adventures, and planning the next visit.
We did a lot in a few hours, and we’ve returned since to discover more because if you spend a few hours, you’ll want to spend more; trust me on this.
While I am not a fan of riding a ferry, I overcome this and suck it up because the island is worth the ride!
The Ocracoke Island Guide Top 10!
Alright, fellow adventurers, before we part ways, let’s do a quick recap. I mean, who doesn’t love a good ol’ list? Especially when it’s about the enchanting Ocracoke Island. So, here are the top 10 takeaways from our guide:
- Ferry Fun: Arrive early, especially mid-week, and always check the weather.
- Golf Carts: The MVP of Ocracoke transport. Rent one and feel the island vibes.
- Bike Around: Another fun way to explore the island. Feel the wind in your hair!
- Wild Ponies: Watch, but don’t touch or feed. Respect their space.
- Shelling: Hunt for treasures like the rare Scotch Bonnet on the beaches.
- Eats & Treats: From vegetarian options to ice cream, Ocracoke’s got variety.
- Shopping: Grab souvenirs, especially those cute lighthouse ornaments.
- Lighthouse Love: Snap some pics, but remember, no going inside.
- Day Trip Pack: Towel, flip-flops, sunscreen, water, and cash.
- Stay Chill: It’s an island adventure, after all. Relax and enjoy every moment.
Your own Ocracoke Ferry and Ocracoke Island cheat sheet. Now, go out there and make some memories. And hey, if you find a tip that’s not on this list, drop me a line. Sharing is caring.
So, if you’re looking for a unique travel experience, Ocracoke Island awaits. Dive into its wonders, explore its secrets, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll become a ‘Coke head’ too. ! Dana XO
Note: This guide is based on my personal experience from a trip a few years ago. Things might have changed since then, so always check for the latest information before planning your visit.
FREE SEASHELL COLORING PAGES
Dana Vento: Award-Winning Travel Writer & Seasoned Explorer
Join me on a journey through the world’s wonders. From compelling stories at Niagara Falls to accolades in writing and Instagram photography, my global adventures are rich with experience. Each article offers a slice of life—from cruising the seas to exploring vibrant Aruba—turning every trip into an award-worthy adventure. Here’s to a life of exploration and unforgettable stories