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.

Ferry boat carrying multiple cars on calm water under a blue sky with some clouds.
Aerial view of a marina with boats docked at piers, surrounding residential houses, parking lot with cars, and the ocean in the background during sunset.

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.