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Ocracoke
harbor
Lighthouse
Back Porch
Restaurant
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The town
of Ocracoke, located on the barrier island of the same name,
is about as close as you'll get to Out Island cruising in
North Carolina. The well-protected anchorage is bordered by
beautiful beaches, a marine forest, and an ancient lighthouse.
The village offers an assortment of dining opportunities from
pizza to gourmet selections. Groceries and supplies can also
be purchased on the harbor waterfront. Ocracoke exudes a certain
Cape Cod ambiance, peppered with pirate legends and a rich
nautical heritage, for it was here that Blackbeard the Pirate
met his death off Teach's Hole, the channel that now bears
his name (Edward Teach Channel).
Cycling
is the preferred means of touring the village, and you can
rent bicycles from several shops. The British Cemetery and
the lighthouse are two popular attractions. If you have the
time, visit Portsmouth Island across Ocracoke Inlet. This
village is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and
was once the largest settlement on the Outer Banks. Now, it
serves as a tribute to the men and women who have struggled
against the shifting sands and tides of the Outer Banks.
The first
light station was built on the island in 1803, but fifteen
years later it was destroyed by lightning. In 1823 it was
replaced with the current tower. The original fourth-order
lens was destroyed during the Civil War, but a new lens installed
in 1864 remains today.
Ocracoke
Island has almost 15 miles of unspoiled beaches where you
can walk for hours without seeing anyone. The light watches
over Silver Lake and the sleepy town of Ocracoke. The island
is accessible only by boat. You can walk up close to the light,
but you cannot enter. And, although you are discouraged from
doing so, you can walk behind the lighthouse and see the old
graveyard.
If you
go to Ocracoke, don't expect fast food and ferris wheels.
Anchor out or tie up at the public docks but in any case,
try the Back Porch restaurant, or check out one of the many
other fine restaurants in Ocracoke.
- Eddie
Jones
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