Get an Island Massage
Whether your trip to Ocracoke includes non stop activity or complete relaxation, why not include the ultimate island indulgence. Ocracoke has several wonderful massage therapists and each offers a unique touch and a variety of treatments and massages.
Go Beachcombing For Shells
Beachcombing for shells, also called shelling, on the beaches of Ocracoke is an activity enjoyed by all. The best times to look for shells are after a high tide, after a storm, in the morning and during the winter months. When picking up shells from the sand, make sure you check first to make sure nothing is still alive inside the shell. If the shell you choose is still home to a live sea creature, set it back in the sand and keep searching.
Drive Real, Real Slow Down Howard Street
Or better yet, bike or walk down Ocracoke's historic Howard Street. Howard Street is an oyster shell strewn lane bordered by picket fences, quaint island homes, and small family cemeteries. You will feel like you have stepped back in time to an era, not so long ago, when life moved at a slower pace. Don't forget to bring your camera. This quaint street inspires many an artist.
Catch a Wave Surfing in the Outer Banks Ocean Waters
Because the Outer Banks are set farther into the ocean with deeper waters than most other coastal regions, the surf of the Outer Banks is said to have the best breaks on the East Coast. The various shipwrecks and sandbars also create unusual wave patterns for the thousands of surfers who come to the area each year to ride the waves. As with any activity in the ocean, always go with a friend and be aware of water, weather and beach conditions. Educate yourself about rip currents by visiting
www.EenaProject.com.
Build a Sandcastle
Plan an afternoon to go to the beach and build a sandcastle. You could have your own family sandcastle contest. No matter how the sandcastles turn out, you are sure to have fun! If you are staying on Ocracoke on July 4th, join the Sand Castle Contest or stop by for some inspiration.
Check Out the Community Bulletin Boards
Looking for the inside "scoop" about what's happening on the island? Check local bulletin boards at the Community Store (on the harbor), The Variety Store, the Post Office, or the gas station all located on Highway 12. You will find notices about everything from dances to yard sales to potluck dinners. Catch up on local birth and birthday announcements!
Take a Free Wildlife Education Program
Stop by the National Park Service Ocracoke Island Visitor Center for information on informative programs including subjects such as Barrier Island Nature, Outer Banks History or Graveyard of the Atlantic. For a closer look at life on a sandy beach, attend Explore the Shore, participate in a talk on the Banker Ponies or join in the Morning Bird Walk. By attending programs and completing a workbook, kids ages 5-13 can become a Seashore Ranger. Offerings and schedules vary by season. For further information on Seashore programs, contact the Ocracoke Visitor Center (252) 928-4531 or check the park website at http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/things2do.htm.
Enjoy A Wine Tasting
Stop by Zillie's Island Pantry (252.928.3086) on the Back Road (www.zilliespantry.com) - On Thursday evenings (and most Fridays in season) there are weekly wine tastings to tempt your palate. Zillie's also features a WI-FI Wine Deck and over 250 specialty beers from around the world!
Enjoy an Al Fresco Waterfront Dinner
Ocracoke has a number of waterfront dining options where you can sit outdoors and enjoy a lovely breeze off the sound and maybe some live music, too! What could be better than enjoying a cool beverage and a delicious meal as you watch the boats coming in to the harbor for the evening and the watercolor sky lit up with a brilliant sunset. A walk through the heart of the village reveals several waterfront dining options along the shores of Silver Lake Harbor.
Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
You've seen the movies with people riding horses on the beach. Why not try it for yourself during your vacation on Ocracoke? Share a ride with an experienced guide and bring a camera to capture the experience.
