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Ocracoke Island is truly a place to enjoy yourself


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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 Harbor History

Ocracoke Harbor, also known as Silver Lake Harbor, has a rich history that dates back to the early days of European exploration in the region. The harbor was first discovered by European explorers in the 16th century, when Spanish explorers sailed through the area in search of new trade routes.

In the 1700s, the harbor became an important port for ships involved in the transatlantic trade. The harbor's location at the southern end of the Outer Banks made it an ideal stopping point for ships traveling between Europe, the Caribbean, and the mainland colonies. The harbor was also a popular spot for pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard, who is said to have anchored his ship, the Queen Anne's Revenge, in the harbor on multiple occasions.

During the Civil War, the harbor played an important role in the Union blockade of the southern coast. Union ships patrolled the waters around Ocracoke Island, preventing Confederate ships from entering or leaving the harbor. The island was also home to a Union naval base, which was used to repair and resupply Union ships.

Today, Ocracoke Harbor is a popular destination for boaters and fishermen, as well as tourists visiting the island. The harbor is home to a number of restaurants and shops, as well as the Ocracoke Island Visitor Center. The harbor is also a popular spot for watching the sunset over the water.

Silver Lake Harbor

Ocracoke's Silver Lake Harbor is the primary harbor on Ocracoke Island, located in the heart of Ocracoke Village. The harbor is a natural inlet that has been modified over the years to accommodate boats and ships.

The harbor was named for the silver-colored sand that lines the bottom of the inlet. It has a long history of use as a safe haven for ships in stormy weather and as a stopover for ships trading between the mainland and other points along the Atlantic coast.

In addition to its historical significance, Silver Lake Harbor is also an important commercial and recreational hub for the island. It is home to a variety of boats, from small fishing vessels to large sailboats and powerboats, and serves as a base for many commercial and recreational fishing operations. Visitors can rent boats or book fishing charters to explore the waters of the Pamlico Sound or venture out to the nearby Gulf Stream for deep-sea fishing.

The harbor is also surrounded by a number of shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making it a popular destination for tourists visiting the island. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the harborfront, take a sunset sail, or simply relax and take in the beautiful views of the water and the surrounding marshland.

Ocracoke Harbor is located on the southern end of Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Ocracoke Island is part of Hyde County and is situated in the Pamlico Sound, separated from the mainland by a series of inlets and waterways. The island is accessible by ferry from Hatteras Island to the north, and from Cedar Island and Swan Quarter on the mainland to the south.

Silver Lake is a small natural lake located on Ocracoke Island, which is part of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The lake is located near the center of the island, just north of Ocracoke Village, and is connected to the Pamlico Sound by a narrow inlet.

The lake is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) long and 1/2 mile (0.8 km) wide, with a maximum depth of around 5 feet (1.5 m). The lake is surrounded by marshland and is home to a variety of fish and other wildlife, including blue crabs, shrimp, and several species of birds.

In addition to its natural beauty, Silver Lake is also an important hub for tourism on Ocracoke Island. The lakefront is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and accommodations, as well as the Ocracoke Island Visitor Center. Visitors can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the lake, or take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront boardwalk to enjoy the beautiful views and coastal atmosphere. Overall, Silver Lake is a popular destination for visitors to Ocracoke Island, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities.

Silver Lake Top Tourist Attractions

  • Ocracoke Lighthouse: The iconic Ocracoke Lighthouse stands tall and proud at the southern end of Silver Lake. Built in 1823, it is the oldest lighthouse still in operation in North Carolina.
  • Water Activities: Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities on Silver Lake, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and sunset cruises.
  • Shops and Restaurants: Silver Lake is home to a number of unique shops and restaurants, where visitors can shop for souvenirs, enjoy a delicious meal, or grab a refreshing drink.
  • Historic Sites: The lake is surrounded by a number of historic sites, including the British Cemetery, where several sailors who perished in a World War II submarine attack are buried.
  • Ocracoke Island Visitor Center: Located on the shores of Silver Lake, the Ocracoke Island Visitor Center provides a wealth of information about the island's history, culture, and natural attractions.
  • Boardwalk: A scenic boardwalk runs along the edge of Silver Lake, providing visitors with stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape.

Overall, Silver Lake offers a wide range of activities and attractions that make it a popular destination for visitors to Ocracoke Island. Whether you're interested in history, water sports, or just soaking up the coastal atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy.