How many full time residents are on Ocracoke Island?
There are less than 1,000 year-round residents in Ocracoke.
What is Ocracoke Island known for?
Ocracoke Island is famous for its exceptional shelling and is one of the best shelling destinations on the Outer Banks.
Where can I park in Ocracoke village?
Depart the ferry toward the Village. Parking is available in the municipal parking lot on the left near NPS and the Ocracoke Preservation Museum. We are located 100 yards toward the Village on the right, across from the Anchorage Inn.
Is Ocracoke worth visiting?
If you want to venture away from Roanoke Island and Kill Devil Hills, head south for a day trip to Ocracoke Island. This secluded and tranquil island offers a quiet escape to untouched shores and a charming town well worth exploring!
Who owns Ocracoke Island?
the United States National Park Service
Ocracoke Island is one of several islands and peninsulas that make up North Carolina’s Outer Banks. As the southern-most portion of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, most of the island is owned by the United States National Park Service.
Are there wild horses on Ocracoke Island?
Some of the most popular Ocracoke locals are the Wild Ponies, which are protected in a secluded 180 acre area enclosure on the soundside of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, but can still be enjoyed by anyone passing through the island on NC Highway 12.
How long is the Ocracoke ferry ride?
60 minutes
Three vehicle ferries bring cars, trucks, RVs, motorcycles and bicycles to Ocracoke Island. The free Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry offers multiple trips daily year-round, and the crossing takes 60 minutes. The ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted.
Do you need a permit to drive on Ocracoke Island?
Visitors to Ocracoke that will be driving their off-road vehicle on the beach are required to obtain an Off-Road Vehicle Use Permit from the National Park Service.
Are there wild ponies on Ocracoke?
How long is ferry ride to Ocracoke?
Why is it called Ocracoke?
The earliest record of the island’s name, on a map made by English explorer John White in 1585, designates the inlet as “Wokokon.” Subsequent spellings include “Woccocock,” “Oakacock” and “Okercock.” The name derives from the Woccon tribe of Native Americans, who lived in the mainland tidewater and established fishing …
How did the ponies get to Ocracoke Island?
Several hundreds of years ago, a shipwreck just offshore left a herd of Spanish mustangs stranded on Ocracoke Island. Their descendants still thrive here today.