Getting Around
Cars are allowed on Ocracoke Island, but parking can be limited. So, just unpack your car and forget about it. There are more fun ways to get around the island.
WALK
You can walk to most places within the village and on the outskirts. Even the Lifeguard Beach is only a 2-mile walk from the village down a wide paved path.
BIKE
Bring your own or rent one while you’re here. Bikes are an easy way to get around the island even if you don’t have a lot of experience on two wheels. Most establishments have bike racks out front, including the parking lot at the Lifeguard Beach.
Download a bike map of the island here.
MOTOR
Golf carts are the other preferred mode of transport on wheels. Rentals are easy to find and affordable given how much you’ll use—and enjoy—them. The speed limit in the village is 20 mph—perfect for golf carts. Just remember to drive as cautiously as you would behind the wheel of a car since many of our streets are shared with local cats, dogs, pedestrians, bicyclists, and the occasional skateboarder.
TRAM
Hop on the free tram service that runs around the village. It has nine stops and loops around the island from 10:30 a.m.–8 p.m. in 30-minute intervals. Pick up points are marked with signs indicating “Tram Stop.” The tram is seasonal, running from Memorial to Labor Day.
OFF-ROAD
Off-road vehicles, including 4x4s, are permitted on the beach. You can rent an off-road vehicle while you’re here, or bring your own. A permit is required and can be obtained online through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV permit page.
