Outer Banks Escape

The island village holds its charm, even in the middle of the busy summer season.

"The lure and mystique of the Outer Banks come alive in Ocracoke, North Carolina. Pack the beach gear, and become an official day-tripper.

Shopping the Village

Ocracoke has evolved into a shopping destination. Drop by Village Diva Boutique, a women's specialty shop. David O'Neal of Downpoint Decoy Shop displays his collection of antique decoy ducks and fishing lures. If you're planning a fancy beach picnic, stop by Zillie's Island Pantry for appetizers, fine wines, and cheeses.

Hit the Beach

Cross Ocracoke's towering sand dunes by boardwalk, and the gorgeous stretch of preserved, natural beach opens below. You'll find the first of a half-dozen day-use areas a few miles north of the village, but only a few offer bathrooms and changing rooms.

Island Dining

Although the Flying Melon Cafe sits in an inconspicuous building, there's nothing drab about its bright, lighthearted decor. When we dined, we had grilled redfish topped with crabmeat, collards, and Creole rice ($18.50).

For dinner, try the seafood platter ($22.95) with broiled fish, sautéed shrimp, scallops, and a deep-fried crab beignet at the Back Porch Restaurant. You'll be just as comfortable coming off the beach as you would in your fancy slacks. Owner Daphne Bennink explains, "Ocracoke has an intrinsic casual aspect to it."

-TANNER C. LATHAM

For more information: Visit www.ocracoke village.com or www.hydecounty.org, or call 1-888-493-3826.

For More Info

Outer Banks Editors' City Guide: editorscityguide.com

far left: Stop for a sweet treat at one of the slushy stands or ice-cream huts on the island, top: While in the village, stroll around the peaceful harbor, left: The Back Porch Restaurant offers elegant dining in a casual atmosphere, above: You have to hop a ferry to make your way to Ocracoke.

Getting There

If your private plane's in the shop, you'll have to access Ocracoke via three ferry ports: Hatteras (40 minutes, free), Swan Quarter (2 ½ hours, $15 one-way), and Cedar Island (2.25 hours, $15 one-way). Visit www.nc ferry.org, or call 1-800-293-3779 for departure times.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 2007
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved