Ocracoke Island has joined the ranks of a variety of islands spanning across the United States, including those in California, Florida, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and many more on Thrillist’s “Best U.S. Islands to Vacation at this Summer.”
Taking note of Ocracoke Island’s “haunted history” in regard to it’s close ties with Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard the pirate, the travel outlet deems Ocracoke an underrated U.S. island to vacation at this summer. “This gem in the Outer Banks was one of [Blackbeard’s] favorite hide-outs, probably owing to its secluded locale over 20 miles off the coast.”
As for non-haunted amenities, Thrillist suggests that a scenic bike ride for visitors and to check out the oldest operating lighthouse in the state. They also recommend visiting the Ocracoke Banker Ponies, descendants of a rare breed of Spanish mustangs shipwrecked on the island long ago. As for food and drinks? Local seafood spots such as Howard’s Raw Bar and Flying Melon receiveddirect mention, as well as 1718 Brewing.
“Blackbeard’s final resting place is loaded with pirate lore (but not tourists),” says Thrillist.