Ocracoke Shopping: Kids

Housed in a quaint, historic home on School House Road, Books to be Red is not only Ocracoke's beloved independent bookstore, but also a purveyor of gorgeous ceramics and pottery, candles, soaps and body products, home and garden accessories and whimsical items you won't find anywhere else. A well-chosen selection of book titles makes this small bookstore a literary powerhouse. You can find a great selection of fiction, nonfiction, poetry and local interest books plus cards, journals and art supplies. There is also a special collection of books and educational toys just for children. Plan to linger.

The Variety Store is the one-stop island shop where you'll find fresh produce, hand-cut meats, beer and wine and almost all of your grocery needs. It's also the place for t-shirts, beach supplies, ice, household items, over-the-counter medicines, toiletries and gifts. The front foyer has a bulletin board and racks containing local announcements, news, menus, advertisements and information about island happenings. The hardware store next door offers tools, hardware and electrical, home, garden and automotive supplies. They're open seven days a week in season.