One definite highlight of our trip was taking the passenger ferry to Ocracoke. While the car ferry is free, I highly recommend paying the small fee to ride the passenger ferry. Parking is limited on the island and the unique experience of being on foot is totally worth it. The village is walkable, with shops sprinkled throughout and a free hop-on/hop-off tram during busy seasons. You can also bring or rent a bike. While there, we had lunch at Jason’s Restaurant (favorite past-time since my husband’s name is Jason). It was a bit underwhelming this time—but we later enjoyed drinks and taco salads at 1718 Brewing, where the open-air vibe was perfect.
Back on the main island, we drove out on the beach via ORV Access #25 and #27. Don’t forget to air your tires down! One night, we underestimated the tide—lesson learned! We ended up leaving quickly and were greeted by black flies on foot. Stay away from the dunes! It was unforgettable, in the worst-best way.
Food-wise, we mostly ate at the house, but made exceptions for:
Orange Blossom Bakery (Buxton): Get the legendary apple ugly. You’ll thank me later.
Biscuits & Porn (Nags Head): A gas station breakfast stop with a name you’ll never forget and biscuits you won’t want to share.
Tortugas’ Lie (Nags Head): Beachfront eats with great prices and fresh food. I’m not a seafood lover so I ordered the black bean burger. It was delicious!
We also visited Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest living dune on the East Coast, and the end of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. If you’re up for it, you can even try hang gliding lessons!
After a week of sand, sun, books, and biscuits, we drove home tired and happy. Even the cats had a great time birdwatching from the windows of our rental. Until next time, OBX.
