People relax on the beach and swim in the surf of the lifeguarded beach on Ocracoke Island.

© Liz Albro Photography/Getty Images/iStock

Ocracoke Beach

Outer Banks


Dolphins are commonly spotted on Ocracoke's gorgeous, undeveloped 16-mile stretch of sandy beach. Swimmers should be aware of rip currents. Find parking and toilet facilities at this access point on the right-hand side of Irvin Garrish Hwy when traveling north out of town.