Sustainable Tourism
You came here because Ocracoke is different. Help us keep it that way.
Ocracoke has always been shaped by change—storms, shifting sands, and new people who choose to make this place home. Even with demographic shifts, like our Latino community growing from 2% to 19% between 2000 and 2010, the island has held onto its unique character and sense of togetherness. That balance—between welcoming visitors and protecting what makes Ocracoke special—is the essence of sustainable tourism.
THE BASICS MATTER
Plan ahead. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Dispose of waste properly. Leave what you find. Respect wildlife, minimize campfire impacts, and be considerate of others. These aren’t just nice ideas—they’re the practices that allow 16 miles of wild barrier island to host thousands of visitors without losing its soul.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Research shows that people trained in Leave No Trace principles are five times more likely to protect nature—and each person shares those lessons with hundreds more. Small actions ripple outward.
SUPPORT LOCAL
Eat at locally owned restaurants. Shop at island businesses. Stay in accommodations run by people who live here. Every dollar spent locally helps sustain the community that makes Ocracoke what it is.
RESPECT CLOSURES
Beach access may be restricted for nesting birds or sea turtles, or roads may be closed after storms. Be patient, flexible, and understanding—this island moves on natural time, not vacation time.
We promote travel to Ocracoke while celebrating the cultural, historical, and environmental heritage that defines our island. Visitors don’t have to be perfect—just thoughtful. Because long after your vacation ends, Ocracoke will remain. And with care, it will still be here for the next person who needs to feel 16 miles away from everything else.