Shops on Ocracoke Island

For those shopping on Ocracoke Island, one of the first things noticed the businesses’ integrity and how authentically local they are. You’ll often see the owners themselves tending Ocracoke Island shops and personally cultivating the individual atmospheres found in each of them. The plethora of shops on Ocracoke Island present so many tempting spots, you’ll be wondering where to even begin! Do what they islanders do – set out on foot or by bike and start exploring. Surprises wait around every corner of Ocracoke village. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for any special gems that peek out.

One of the most charming aspects of Ocracoke Island shopping is that many businesses are located in the island’s old homes, which have been converted for new lives as retail establishments. For an iconic Ocracoke shopping experience, head to Howard Street. Down this lane and around the corner is an art studio. Next, meander up a ways and a cool gift store sits at the end of the drive. A short along the street brings you to a great book store. This is the pace and fun of exploring the shops on Ocracoke Island.

Finding Your Treasure at Shops on Ocracoke Island

Many Ocracoke Island shops feature the work of local artists and craftsmen, and the products take all sorts of shapes and sizes. Admire the professional photography, eye-catching oil paintings, funky collages, handmade soaps, perfumes, candles, jewelry, knitted items, musical instruments, woodcarvings and more. Bring the sounds of the island to your home with CDs from local musicians or pick up a jar of island-sourced fig preserves.

Not all Ocracoke Island shopping trips are about browsing and admiring the retailers’ wares, however. Retail therapy is a time of whimsical fun, but oftentimes shopping means getting the basic necessities. For the basic goods there are tackle shops, a hardware store and several community grocery stores. Many shoppers’ needs are a bit more specific to their activities on Ocracoke, and this usually involves the great outdoors. You’ll have no trouble finding surf, kayak, standup paddleboard and kiteboarding gear at Ocracoke Island shops in addition to outdoor apparel ranging from hiking boots to bathing suits.