By: Hayley Hutson
After college, nothing prepared me for the loneliness of living hours away from my closest friends. Enter: the girls’ trip. Traveling with friends has become my favorite way to reconnect while sharing new experiences. And Ocracoke? Between the laid-back beach vibes and incredible scenery, it’s a perfect destination for an unforgettable girls’ weekend.
From happy hour oysters and sunset cruises to waterfront yoga and wine tastings, this quaint island on the southern tip of the Outer Banks has all the ingredients for a restorative getaway with your besties. So, pack your bags and get ready to ditch reality for paradise for a few days. Here’s how to make the most of your next girls’ trip to Ocracoke.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Zillie’s Island Pantry
First things first—wine. Because what’s a girls’ trip without a little vino? On my last trip to Ocracoke, I had a blast partaking in a wine-tasting at Zillie’s. We sampled generous pours (more than I’ve gotten at any other tasting) of wines from around the world paired with tasty appetizers made from locally sourced items they sold in the shop.
After you’ve found your new favorite wine, stick around to buy a bottle (or two) and head to the shady patio. Zillie’s has an awesome selection of snacks (bacon chocolate bars, anyone?), so you can easily whip up an assorted snack platter to enjoy with your wine.
My class was full, so I highly recommend booking your spots in advance. It’s also worth mentioning that the husband-wife duo who run Zillie’s Island Pantry and its wine-tasting class are incredibly warm and welcoming, so you’ll be in good hands!
Go for a Private Sunset Cruise
Whether I’m in Jamaica with my fiancé or the Outer Banks my girls, I’m always up for a sunset cruise. I’ve been to beaches all over the globe and I might be biased since I grew up vacationing in the Outer Banks, but I firmly believe there’s nothing quite like an OBX sunset.
There’s something undeniably magical about the sky when the sunset paints it in vibrant shades of purple, orange, and pink. If you’re traveling with a group, skip the public boat tours and book a private sunset cruise instead. With Sail Ocracoke, you’ll cruise around the Pamlico Sound on a gorgeous sailboat led by Captain Rob Temple, a licensed captain of nearly half a century.
During your cruise, you’ll head to the best spots to take in the sunset and have plenty of stellar opportunities for IG-worthy group photos. Pro tip: If you’re into pirates, ask Captain Rob about Blackbeard—he’s an authority on the infamous pirate and was even featured on the History Channel to chat about what he knows.
Take a Yoga Class on the Beach
Adulting is stressful, so whenever I’m on vacation, I always try to carve out some time for wellness. Luckily, my friends feel the same way, so we always plan trips with equal parts indulgence and zen.
If you’re looking to de-stress, take a beach yoga class with Ocracoke Island Yoga. Yoga is a great way to relax in any environment, but when you add the salty ocean air and the sound of the waves as your backdrop? It’s pure bliss. You can join a group class or book a private lesson for your friends; whichever you’re more comfortable with.
No matter your experience level, the instructors will guide you through a session that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle your next adventure. Plus, it’s an amazing bonding experience—how many people can say they did yoga on the beach with their best friends?
Explore Local Stores on a Shopping Spree
I don’t know about you, but retail therapy is my favorite form of therapy. One of the things that surprised me most when I first explored Ocracoke was the number of unique local shops. Some of my favorites include Over the Moon, Village Craftsmen, and Mermaid’s Folly, but that’s barely scratching the surface of what the island has to offer.
You’ll find everything from beachy home decor and handmade jewelry to stunning artwork, boho-chic clothing, and quirky gifts to bring back for loved ones. The best part? Most of the treasures you’ll find in these shops are crafted by local artisans.
Driving is an option, but finding parking around the island can be a nightmare. I’d leave the car behind and rent a golf cart or take advantage of the free Ocracoke Village Shuttle. It’s a great way to see the sights and shop ‘til you drop without breaking a sweat.
Book a Spiritual Wellness Experience
If you’re looking to add some spirituality to your Ocracoke wellness experiences, head straight to Little Rituals. The holistic boutique is filled with clean beauty products, crystals, and lifestyle tools designed to enrich your mind, body, and soul.
Beyond that, the owner is also a somatic educator who offers therapeutic sessions like tarot card readings and reiki sound massages. I’ll admit that I never expected to find offerings like these on this tiny island, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover Little Rituals!
Whether you’re looking for healing, insight, or just a fun experience, booking a session with Brooke is a great way to add some mindfulness to your girls’ trip. You’ll leave feeling grounded and ready for whatever the universe has in store. It’ll also give you and your friends plenty to chat about over some drinks later that night!
Go to Ocracoke Oyster Company for Happy Hour
When I’m on the island, Ocracoke Oyster Company is a daily part of my routine. The Cedar Island oysters are so fresh, buttery, and flavorful—I can’t get enough. And with the happy hour specials, ordering a dozen raw oysters and a margarita is a steal.
If you’re looking for a casual spot to kick off your evening, head there for pre-dinner drinks and oysters. Any local could tell you that this is the go-to place on Ocracoke for fresh oysters, and it’s conveniently located on the main strip near a bunch of shops, restaurants, and bars.
The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, so it’s the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy the company of your best friends in preparation for the night ahead. If you love a good cocktail, order the pineapple cilantro margarita and thank me later.
Indulge in an Elevated Southern Lunch
As much as I love a good dive bar, I also love restaurants with a more upscale vibe—especially when I’m out with friends. Of all the spots I’ve dined at on the island, Dajio is easily the most chic. You can relax on the dog-friendly covered patio or sit in the bistro’s spacious dining room, where the walls are covered in peaceful, beach-inspired artwork.
Dajio serves up Southern classics with a modern twist, specializing in dishes that showcase the local seafood. My fiancé’s obsessed with the chargrilled oysters, and I could eat the crab empanadas every day without getting bored. If you’re on the hunt for an elevated meal in a spot with a photo-friendly aesthetic, do yourself a favor and book a table here.
Soak up the Sun on a Nationally Recognized Beach
No trip to Ocracoke is complete without spending time at Lifeguard Beach. Top travel experts like Dr. Beach have ranked it among the best beaches in America, and you’ll understand why once you see it for yourself.
Between the pillowy-soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and fewer crowds than you’ll see anywhere else in the Outer Banks, Lifeguard Beach is an idyllic spot to soak up the sun with your girls. It’s also the island’s only beach with comfort amenities like restrooms, changing rooms, and shower facilities.
This means you don’t have to return to your car covered in sand, which is a huge plus – especially if you aren’t going straight home after leaving the beach. Whether you plan to spend your days sipping wine, sailing on the Pamlico Sound, or sampling all the seafood on the island, Ocracoke is a perfect destination for your next girls’ trip. Maybe I’ll see you there!