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Ocracoke Island is one of the few island paradises left on the East Coast

Harbor Dock, new Deep Glow underwater fish attracting light


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Hosted by:
  • The Ocracoke Harbor Inn
  • 144 Silver Lake Dr, Ocracoke
  • North Carolina 27960 - United States
  • 800-293-3779
  • [email protected]
  • https://ocracokeharborinn.com/

Ocracoke Village History

Ocracoke Village is a small town located on Ocracoke Island, which is part of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The island has a rich history that dates back to the early colonial era. The first known residents of the island were Native Americans, who fished and hunted on the island for thousands of years.

In the 16th century, European explorers, including Spanish and English sailors, began to visit the Outer Banks. The first recorded European visit to Ocracoke Island was by the Spanish explorer, Lucas Vazquez de Ayllon, in 1526. The island was later visited by English explorers, including Sir Walter Raleigh and his colonists, who landed on nearby Roanoke Island in 1585.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Ocracoke Island was used as a base for pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard. The island's remote location and deep inlets made it an ideal spot for pirates to hide their ships and loot.

In the 19th century, Ocracoke Island became a center for the fishing and shipping industries. The village of Ocracoke was established as a commercial and residential center for the island's residents. The island's economy was primarily based on fishing, whaling, and shipping.

During the Civil War, Ocracoke Island was occupied by Union troops, who built a fort on the island to protect the coast from Confederate attacks. After the war, the island's economy continued to thrive, with the fishing and shipping industries continuing to be the primary sources of income for island residents. Today, Ocracoke Village is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and quaint shops and restaurants. The village has a population of just over 500 people, and its small-town charm and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite spot for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Ocracoke Village Top Tourist Attractions

Ocracoke Village has a number of tourist attractions that draw visitors to the island each year. Here are some of the top attractions:

  • Ocracoke Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse was built in 1823 and is one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the United States. Visitors can climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the island.
  • Ocracoke Island Beaches: The island has over 16 miles of pristine beaches, with crystal clear waters and soft sand. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
  • Springer's Point Nature Preserve: This 120-acre nature preserve is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the trails, or go birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
  • British Cemetery: This cemetery contains the graves of four British sailors who died during World War II. The cemetery is located on a beautiful bluff overlooking the Pamlico Sound.
  • Portsmouth Island: This historic village was once a bustling port town, but is now a ghost town. Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the island's history.
  • Teach's Hole Blackbeard Exhibit: This interactive museum tells the story of the infamous pirate Blackbeard and his time on Ocracoke Island. Visitors can learn about pirate life and see artifacts recovered from Blackbeard's ship, the Queen Anne's Revenge.
  • Ocracoke Island Fig Tree: This historic fig tree is over 300 years old and is believed to have been planted by early settlers. Visitors can take a photo with the tree and learn about its significance to the island's history.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Ocracoke Village has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, there's something for everyone on this beautiful island.

Ocracoke Village Climate

Ocracoke Village has a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The island is located in a temperate zone, which means that temperatures rarely drop below freezing.

During the summer months, temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 24 to 32 degrees Celsius), with high humidity levels. The summer months also bring occasional thunderstorms, but they are usually short-lived.

In the winter, temperatures range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 7 to 18 degrees Celsius), with occasional cold fronts bringing temperatures below freezing. Snowfall is rare on the island, but it is not unheard of.

The fall and spring months are considered the best times to visit Ocracoke Village, with mild temperatures and lower humidity levels. The fall months bring cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, while the spring months bring blooming flowers and migrating birds. It is important to note that Ocracoke Village is located in a hurricane-prone region, with the peak of hurricane season occurring from August to October. Visitors should be aware of the possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes and should stay informed of weather conditions during their stay.

Ocracoke Village Geography

Ocracoke Village is located on Ocracoke Island, which is part of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The island is approximately 16 miles (25.7 km) long and 1 mile (1.6 km) wide at its widest point.

The island is separated from the mainland by Pamlico Sound to the west and from the neighboring island of Hatteras by Hatteras Inlet to the north. The inlet is a popular spot for fishing and boating, and it connects the Pamlico Sound with the Atlantic Ocean.

The island's terrain is flat and sandy, with a few small hills and dunes. The island's vegetation includes sea oats, wax myrtle, and yaupon holly, among others. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, sea turtles, and dolphins.

Ocracoke Village is located on the southern end of the island and is the largest town on the island. The village is situated on the harbor, which provides access to the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. The village is home to a number of historic sites, restaurants, and shops, and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Outer Banks.