Getting Here

Ocracoke is reached by ferry, private boat, or small plane — worth every mile.

Ocracoke is famously off the beaten path — and that’s the point. The island rewards the journey with one of America’s most celebrated beaches, wide sands, and untamed horizons.

NC Ferry Info Ocracoke Airstrip (W95)

By Car + Ferry

  • Raleigh, NC → ~5.5–6 hours
  • Charlotte, NC → ~7.5–8 hours
  • Charleston, SC → ~8–8.5 hours
  • Greenville, NC → ~4.5–5 hours
  • Elizabeth City, NC → ~3.5–4 hours
  • Wilmington, NC → ~6.5–7 hours
  • Virginia Beach, VA → ~4.5–5 hours
  • Washington, DC → ~7.5–8 hours

Times include drive + ferry (Hatteras, Cedar Island, or Swan Quarter).

By Private Flight (to Ocracoke W95)

  • Raleigh, NC → ~1 hr 5 min
  • Charlotte, NC → ~1 hr 40 min
  • Charleston, SC → ~1 hr 30 min
  • Greenville, NC → ~50 min
  • Elizabeth City, NC → ~35 min
  • Wilmington, NC → ~1 hr 20 min
  • Virginia Beach, VA → ~50 min
  • Washington, DC → ~2 hrs

We can coordinate a shuttle from the Ocracoke airstrip (W95) to the inn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ocracoke is reachable only by ferry or private boat/plane. If you’re driving, you’ll use a vehicle ferry:

  • Hatteras ↔ Ocracoke: Short, frequent ferry from the north end (typically first-come, no fee).
  • Cedar Island and Swan Quarter: Longer mainland crossings; reservations recommended.

Ferry schedules are seasonal. We’ll share the best route and timing for your dates.

Yes. Seasonal passenger ferries run between Hatteras and Ocracoke. When you arrive:

  • The terminal is on the west end of the village — a short walk to the inn.
  • We can help with luggage handoff or a quick pickup if you prefer.
  • Golf carts and bikes are easy to rent in the village.
  • Bring the car if you want to explore the full island (beaches, lighthouse, farther reaches) on your schedule.
  • Go car-free if you’re staying mostly in the village — dining, shops, Silver Lake, and the inn are all close.
  • Either way, we’ll share parking tips and day-trip suggestions at check-in.
  • Ocracoke Island Airport (W95): general aviation airstrip on the island. We can coordinate a shuttle to the inn — just share your ETA.
  • Nearest commercial airports: Norfolk (ORF) and New Bern (EWN) are common gateways, followed by a drive to the ferry.

Send your itinerary and we’ll map the simplest route (air + drive + ferry).

  • It’s a short walk from the west-end ferry terminal to the inn.
  • Prefer a lift? Text us when you board — we’ll meet you on arrival.
  • Traveling heavy? We can help stage luggage drop-off before check-in.
  • Every room has dedicated air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and an HD Smart TV.
  • Need dinner, fishing, surf, or beach tips? Text anytime — Olivia & Hunter are a call away.

If you have a pre-booked reservation, your check-in information is sent on the day of arrival via both email and text. You’ll receive your key code and simple arrival instructions for touch-free entry.

Didn’t see it? Check your spam folder, then text us and we’ll resend instantly.

Absolutely. Share your origin city, dates, and whether you’ll bring a car. We’ll recommend the best ferry route, timing, and reservations (if needed), plus send step-by-step arrival notes.

Message Us Your Travel Plan

Questions right now? Call 252-655-1853 or email olivia@thurstonhouseocracoke.com.