No bridges connect Ocracoke Island to the mainland, though the main road across the island is part of North Carolina Highway 12, which uses a series of ferries to connect to Hatteras Island, to Cedar Island, and to the mainland at Swan Quarter.
Can you drive to Ocracoke Island?
You can’t just hop in your car and drive. The only way to get to Ocracoke is by boat (or small plane). Free ferries from Hatteras Island run continuously throughout the summer season to Ocracoke Island; wait times may average one to two hours. During the off-season, the ferry Hatteras ferry runs on the hour.
Is there a bridge between Hatteras and Ocracoke?
Linking Hatteras Island with the northern Outer Banks—and the rest of the world, the Bonner Bridge crosses Ocracoke Inlet.
Why is there no Ocracoke bridge?
That was all changed September 7, 1846, when a storm blew open a deep and wide inlet that became known as Hatteras Inlet. Today, the lack of a bridge lends the Ocracoke a remote feel, even though it’s only a few miles from Hatteras.
Is there a bridge to get to the Outer Banks?
The 7-mile toll project includes a two-lane bridge that spans the Currituck Sound and connects the Currituck County mainland to the Outer Banks.
How long is the wait for Ocracoke ferry?
During peak travel times in the summer, travelers might experience waits of up to three hours to board ferries running between Hatteras and Ocracoke islands.
How long does it take to cross the Ocracoke ferry?
Fare: See one-way fares Crossing: 2hrs, 15 min.
How deep is the water between Hatteras and Ocracoke?
General depths in the middle of the sound are 14 to 24 feet, but shoals extend miles from shore in many places. Bluff Shoal, northward of Ocracoke Inlet, has 7 to 12 feet over it and extends completely across the sound.
Is Ocracoke worth visiting?
Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks is a wonderful place to visit! And for years I felt like the only person on the east coast who had never been there. But that changed with our first trip to Ocracoke, our foray into the Outer Banks. We’ve returned since because Ocracoke is just so darn enjoyable!
How many cars can go on the ferry to Ocracoke?
In general, 30-50 vehicles can typically fit onboard a Hatteras – Ocracoke Ferry.
Are there alligators on Ocracoke?
There are no recorded alligators in the sound, but the region is home to thousands of migrating birds, deer, reptiles, and the famed Ocracoke Banker horses, or Ocracoke Wild Ponies.
Are there sharks at Ocracoke Island?
Ocracoke is no stranger to visits from sharks.
What is special about Ocracoke Island?
Ocracoke Island is famous for its exceptional shelling and is one of the best shelling destinations on the Outer Banks. Popular finds include whelks, olive shells, moon shells, and the North Carolina State Shell, the Scotch Bonnet.
How long is the bridge to get to Outer Banks?
Now, with fresh paint, the 2.4-mile span takes travelers over the Pamlico Sound, bypassing a narrow stretch of N.C. 12 prone to ocean overwash flooding.
How many bridges go to the Outer Banks?
Three main
Three main bridges connect the OBX to North Carolina’s mainland — the Wright Memorial Bridge, the William B. Umstead Bridge, and the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge.
Is the bridge to Outer Banks open?
RODANTHE, N.C. (WWBT) – After a months-long delay, The North Carolina Department of Transportation has officially opened a new bridge in the Outer Banks.
How much does it cost to ride the Ocracoke ferry?
Cedar Island, Ocracoke, Swan Quarter
| Type | One-Way Fare |
|---|---|
| 3-Wheel Motorcycle | $10 |
| Motorcycle with Trailer | $15 |
| Motorcycle with Side Car | $15 |
| Vehicle and/or Combination Less Than 20 Feet | $15 |
Are there bathrooms on the Ocracoke ferry?
Amenities on Board: The smaller ferries that serve the Hatteras / Ocracoke routes have restrooms as well as a small air-conditioned indoor passenger lounge with bus-style seating and a water fountain on board. There are no vending machines on the ferry.
How often does the Ocracoke ferry run?
Both ferries run three times a day in the off-season and five times a day in season, and reservations are required.
How do you get around on Ocracoke Island?
There are more fun ways to get around the island.
- WALK. You can walk to most places within the village and on the outskirts.
- BIKE. Bring your own or rent one while you’re here.
- MOTOR. Golf carts are the other preferred mode of transport on wheels.
- TRAM. Hop on the free tram service that runs around the village.
- OFF-ROAD.
Can you take your car on the Ocracoke ferry?
The North Carolina Department of Transportation runs ferry services between the mainland and Ocracoke Island. And yes, you can bring your car or RV with you.