North Carolina Town Earns Title of 'Coolest Small Town' In The State
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Carolyn Harmon
Author
The coolest small towns in North Carolina are up for interpretation as so many exist. The media outlet Far & Wide recently published a list highlighting one for each state. It is no surprise the ever-delightful Ocracoke Island was chosen for North Carolina. While we have written about this enchanting place before, a reminder of a visit here may be in order, especially the next time you’re planning a vacation. Consider spending some time away.
1. Island Retreat
Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
First and foremost, the village of Ocracoke is an island that is part of North Carolina's Outer Banks region, so remember to collect shells, look for crabs, light a campfire, and kiss under the stars.
2. Lifeguard Beach
Lifeguarded Beach, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
While there are many, beautiful beaches, Lifeguard Beach was ranked the No. 1 Beach in America in 2007 and 2022 by "Dr. Beach." For one reason smoking is banned making it cigarette-butt-free. Other considerations include water quality, beach width at low tide, the type of sand, and available wildlife. Visit this pretty beach and see it for yourself.
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3. Springer's Point Preserve
Springer's Point Preserve, 104 Loop Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
Another perfect place to see the beach is by exploring it along with the 120 acres of forests and marshland. And the sunsets at Springer’s Point Preserve are pretty amazing too.
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4. Ocracoke Island Discovery Center
Ocracoke Island Discovery Center, 38 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
Formerly known as the Ocracoke Island Visitor Center, this informative place offers trip-planning information and a variety of educational exhibits, such as a slideshow of historic photographs, and a children’s activity corner. Read all about it on the Ocracoke Island Discovery Center web page.
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5. Ocracoke Lighthouse
Ocracoke Lighthouse, 360 Lighthouse Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
Built by hand in 1823, this immense structure celebrated its 200th birthday in 2023. It's the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest in the nation. While visitors aren’t permitted to climb the lighthouse, you can visit the grounds daily. The Ocracoke Lighthouse web page offers more information.
6. British Cemetery
British Cemetery Road, British Cemetery Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
During World War II, the British ship HMT Bedfordshire was torpedoed on May 11, 1942, by the German U-boat 558. The attack killed all of the 37 British Royal Navy sailors who were on board. Later, four of the bodies washed ashore ashore on Ocracoke Island and were buried by residents in local cemetery plots.
Read the whole story on the Ocracoke British Cemetery web page.
7. Silver Lake Harbor
Silver Lake Harbor, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
Park your bicycle in the bike rack or better yet, pull your boat into the slip and enjoy the scenery of state-run ferries, private boats, sailboats, yachts, and ships. Discover other amenities on the Silver Lake Harbor web page.
8. The Flying Melon Cafe
Flying Melon, 181 Back Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
The Flying Melon Cafe serves fresh seafood and other delicious cuisine, interesting cocktails, and scrumptious desserts. We recommend the Clams Casino at this one-of-a-kind dining experience on the island.
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9. Blackbeard's Pirate Jamboree
The Berkley Manor, 58 Water Plant Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
Dress in style and celebrate Ocracoke’s unique pirate history at an authentic pirate encampment. Enjoy a reenactment of Blackbeard’s last battle, dance to musical performances, and shop for unique items. The event takes place in late October/early November. Stay updated on the Blackbeard's Pirate Jamboree on Ocracoke Island Facebook page.
The coolest small towns in North Carolina should definitely include Ocracoke. Can you see why? Discover more about the island’s history on the Ocracoke Preservation Society website. While you’re there, consider renting this Ocracoke cottage that’s just a short walk from the beach on Vrbo.com.
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