Ocracoke Attractions

Ocracoke attractions are unlike those anywhere else. The area’s natural environment, history and culture color the biggest draws here, and you won’t want to miss any of them during your time on the island. On Ocracoke you won’t see the usual commercial draws of a tourist-friendly spot, like go-cart tracks, arcades, mini golf courses, water slides or movie theaters. The pace of life is slower here and the focus is on the simpler pleasures. Explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore by a quiet walk on the beach. Take advantage of the rich fishing waters with when you go clamming or fishing. Ocracoke attractions can enable you to take a step into a scene of true tranquility and isolation when you visit neighboring Portsmouth Island. A trip to the pony pen takes you close to Ocracoke’s protected herd of wild ponies. Let nature trails and preserves lead you into the heart of Ocracoke Island, exposing you to pristine shoreline, ancient trees, wildlife and mementos of Ocracoke’s past.

Dive into Culture with Ocracoke Attractions

Some of Ocracoke’s most popular attractions are a history buff’s dream. Pirate lore, British artifacts, failed civilizations and more color the island’s past and present. Uncover significant pieces of the island’s history and culture at the Ocracoke Preservation Society. Visit one of Blackbeard’s favorite hang outs on the east coast. Appreciate international cooperation that occurred off of the coasts of these shores when you go to the British Cemetery. Trek through the silent roads of Portsmouth Island’s abandoned village, and imagine for yourself what life might have been like for this unsuccessful group of settlers. Not all of the island’s attractions are stuck in the past however. Ocracoke also fosters a flourishing arts scene, and you can see for yourself how great it is at concert halls and festivals. One of our favorite aspects of Ocracoke attractions is their accessibility to budget-conscious travelers. In fact many of them are free!

Ocracoke Alive

Ocracoke Attractions
Ocracoke Civic & Business Association Contributor
84 School Road, Ocracoke
(252) 921-0260

Ocracoke Alive, Inc. was formed to enrich Ocracoke Island by serving the cultural and artistic needs of the community. Through fundraising and donations, ...read more

Ocracoke Alive, Inc. was formed to enrich Ocracoke Island by serving the cultural and artistic needs of the community....read more

Ocracoke Preservation Society and Museum

Ocracoke Attractions
49 Water Plant Road, Ocracoke
(252) 928-7375

For a peek into Ocracoke’s past, visit Ocracoke Preservation Society’s Museum. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving the island’s history...read more

For a peek into Ocracoke’s past, visit Ocracoke Preservation Society’s Museum. The nonprofit organization is...read more

On May 11, 1942, about 40 miles south of Ocracoke, a German submarine torpedoed and sank the British vessel HMS Bedfordshire. The 170-foot ship was...read more

Family operated by native islanders possibly descended from pirates, these 90-minute, 1.5-mile walking tours are sure to entertain and educate. The tours...read more

Family operated by native islanders possibly descended from pirates, these 90-minute, 1.5-mile walking tours are...read more

The second-oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, Ocracoke Lighthouse is celebrating its 200th birthday in 2023! The 75-foot, whitewashed tower and its...read more