Top 15 Most Loved Local Businesses on Ocracoke Island

A lively roundup of Ocracoke's most cherished local businesses, from tour operators and family-run eateries to coffee shops, breweries, and boutiques shaped by island culture and community pride.

Supporting local businesses on vacation always feels good, and on Ocracoke, it's practically effortless. Almost everything here is locally owned, so every coffee you sip, every meal you enjoy, and every little keepsake you pick up goes right back into the community that makes the island so special.

Curious which spots locals rave about and visitors return to year after year? Here's a sneak peek just for you: 

1. Outerlore Tours: Self-guided audio adventures blending history, hauntings, and island lore.
2. Ocracoke Charter Boat: Small-group excursions to hidden beaches, shallow waters, and private islands.
3. Eduardo's: A food truck serving standout Mexican specialties, including the famous Seafood Hot Mess burrito.
4. Thai Moon: Thai dishes prepared fresh, with customizable spice levels and a small Thai market on-site.
5. Dajio Restaurant: Elevated Southern fusion fare, live music, and a warm indoor–outdoor dining atmosphere.
6. Howard's Pub: Casual, unfussy dining with hearty plates, cold craft beer, and a long-standing local following.
7. SmacNally's: Dockside dining with seafood favorites, open-air views, and the daily boats bringing in their catch.
8. Ocracoke Oyster Company: Fresh oysters, wood-smoked barbecue, Key Lime Pie, and a pet-friendly deck.
9. Ocracoke Coffee Company: A cozy morning stop for espresso drinks, baked goods, and a jasmine-scented patio.
10. Deja Brew Coffee Shack: A relaxed coffee shack with simple breakfasts, iced drinks, and sunny outdoor seating.
11. 1718 Brewing Ocracoke: Craft brews, nautical vibes, community events, and a rooftop perfect for sunset sipping.
12. Mermaid's Folly: A boutique with clothing, accessories, and sea-inspired finds that channel island wanderer energy.
13. Variety Store: Ocracoke's essential one-stop shop for groceries, beach gear, snacks, and everyday necessities.
14. Village Craftsmen: A long-loved shop featuring American-made crafts, pottery, woodwork, and old-school charm.
15. Zillie's Wine Shop: A go-to for wine, microbrews, cheeses, and gourmet snacks, with a cozy deck for unwinding.

From the serene satisfaction of waking up to soundfront or harbor views to the joy of a dog-friendly vacation home where every member of the family is welcome, we at Ocracoke Island Realty offer an array of amenities designed to elevate your stay and make your getaway extra special.

Want more tips about Ocracoke Island? Head to our destination blog. As experts in all things Ocracoke, we've got plenty of local insights on year-round events, the best breakfast spots in town, perfect weekend itineraries, Ocracoke's best-kept secrets, and much more.

In this guide, I've rounded up fifteen of the most beloved local businesses on Ocracoke, as chosen by locals, so you can authentically experience this North Carolina paradise.

Now, let's talk about these local gems!

Beloved Local Tours on Ocracoke Island

1. Outerlore Tours

A truly immersive experience transforming a simple walk into an epic journey through the rich stories of the OBX.

Owned by two locals inspired by their memories of a self-guided, immersive audio tour they discovered in Cambodia, Outerlore Tours brings a similar experience to Ocracoke Island. Their self-guided tours delve into Outer Banks history, hauntings, legends, and lore, complete with incredible sound effects and music.

All you need is a smartphone to access their content. Simply select a tour of your preference, and after purchasing it and creating an online account, you'll have access to a tutorial and an interactive map to get started.

As you follow the map, you'll listen to hand-selected stories related to the place you're touring, each with its own unique narrator, cinematic soundtrack, and soundscapes. This creates a truly immersive experience and transforms a simple walk into an unforgettable journey through the rich stories and mysteries of the Outer Banks. Tours are available on Ocracoke Island and Roanoke Island.

2. Ocracoke Charter Boat

Take a boat tour and visit secluded beaches, swim in shallow waters, go shoal hopping, and anchor on private islands for a picnic.

When it comes to boat excursions for small families and groups, Ocracoke Charter Boat is highly recommended by locals. The variety of tours, professional guides, top-notch boats, and excursions to places most vacationers never get to see make it a local business worth supporting.

Their tours include visits to secluded beaches, swimming in shallow, clear waters, shoal hopping, anchoring on private islands for a picnic, and enjoying light tackle fishing and clamming (fishing license included).

That's not all! They also offer sunset, dinner, and even karaoke cruises. Whatever tour you pick, exploring Ocracoke from the water is one of the best things you can do while visiting this North Carolina gem.

Top Local Restaurants on Ocracoke Island

3. Eduardo's

Craving Mexican food for breakfast or lunch? Eduardo's is known for its excellent tacos, tortas, burritos, and other Mexican delights served throughout the day. One of the highlights of this beloved window-service food truck is the Seafood Hot Mess burrito: generously loaded with shrimp and scallops, potatoes, bacon, fried egg, chorizo, avocado, refried beans, queso fresco, Oaxacan cheese, jalapenos, and habanero salsa.

Breakfast is available from 8 AM to 11 AM, featuring specialties like the Chilakiller burrito, burrito bowl, and Mexican Hotcakes. The food truck is entirely outdoors, with a couple of picnic tables offering shaded seating, making it a chill and comfortable spot to enjoy a casual meal.

4. Thai Moon

Take-out-only spot serving up freshly prepared Thai dishes.

Here's a local gem that offers authentic Thai cuisine to Ocracoke Island with a unique flair. This take-out-only spot serves freshly prepared dishes such as Pad Thai, Satay Chicken, Tom Yum Goong, and Panaeng Curry, all crafted using fresh ingredients.

For those who cannot handle spicy food, they're very flexible, tailoring each dish to your desired spice level. Make sure to call ahead for takeout orders, as their delicious food tends to sell out quickly.

When picking up your order, check out their selection of Thai groceries and clothing for sale, and indulge in the enticing aroma of traditional spices that fill the air.

5. Dajio Restaurant 

A top local choice for elevated Southern fusion cuisine right in the heart of Ocracoke Island.

Dajio Restaurant is a top choice for elevated Southern fusion cuisine right in the heart of Ocracoke Island. The menu features innovative twists on Southern classics, featuring standout dishes like Dajio Mac & Cheese topped with blackened tuna, Chargrilled Oysters, Shrimp and Oyster Platters, Crab Cakes, Shrimp Po'boy, and Oyster Po'Boy. All ingredients are locally sourced, and every dish is made from scratch.

Sit indoors or on the charming patio and enjoy an atmosphere lifted by live music, with a team that always makes you feel at home. If you're in the mood for a drink, Dajio offers a thoughtful selection of beers, wines, and standout cocktails, including a fresh take on the Brazilian classic caipirinha.

6. Howard's Pub

A go-to spot for a casual atmosphere, hearty food, and refreshing drinks after a day of adventures on Ocracoke.

Howard's has been serving locals and visitors with great food and drinks for over three decades. This is the go-to place to relax in a casual atmosphere, recharge with hearty food, and grab a drink after a day of adventures on Ocracoke.

Their menu is diverse, with all-time favorites like Buffalo Shrimp and Oysters Rockefeller. American classics such as Chicken Wings and Fried Pickles are also popular, making perfect accompaniments to a cold glass of local craft beer. Howard's menu includes vegetarian, gluten-free, and kids' options, with the latter served on take-home Frisbees, adding to the fun for families dining with little ones.

7. SmacNally's

Savor flavorful food while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings of Ocracoke.

This casual open-air restaurant on the dock at Silver Lake Harbor allows you to savor flavorful food while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings of Ocracoke.

Their menu is vast, offering a variety of options from fresh salads to seafood sandwiches and platters. A standout dish is the Fried Oysters, an absolute must-try. If you dine around 4 p.m., you'll have the chance to see charter boats returning to the marina to unload their catch, adding to the allure of this sea-to-table restaurant. Additionally, SmacNally's boasts stunning lake views, good music, and delicious cocktails, all contributing to an amazing dining experience.

8. Ocracoke Oyster Company

Famous Oyster Rockefeller, family-friendly atmosphere, and a pet-friendly deck with games.

Ocracoke Oyster Company is a local institution. If you're looking for a fun, family-friendly atmosphere and, of course, fresh oysters, this is the place to go and support. 

Grab a table in their casual space boasting rustic island vibes and indulge in their famous Oyster Rockefeller. The menu also offers a great selection of other delicious dishes such as wood-smoked barbecue, chicken, and vegetarian options. Don't skip dessert here, as their Key Lime Pie is to die for.

Adding to the superb food experience is the cozy ambiance, complete with a screened porch and a pet-friendly deck with games.

Beloved Local Coffee Shops & bREWERIES 

9. Ocracoke Coffee Company

An idyllic setting to enjoy the perfect cup of coffee and delicious pastries.

Offering an idyllic setting to enjoy the perfect cup of coffee and delicious pastries, Ocracoke Coffee Company has always been a cozy corner of the island for visitors and locals to sit back, relax, and mingle.

Every morning, you can indulge in a great selection of freshly baked goods like scones, muffins, cakes, breads, donuts, and bagels. For a caffeine fix, the menu features a wide variety of espresso-based drinks. Besides the delicacies and great coffee, the outdoor seating, surrounded by beautiful jasmine and birds, is an incredible feature for a relaxing island time.

10. DEJA BREW COFFEE SHACK

A relaxed island stop for good coffee, easy breakfasts, and a friendly start to the day.

Deja Brew Coffee Shack draws people in with its straightforward charm: great coffee, quick bites, and a warm, unhurried vibe. Visitors often swing by for espresso drinks, cold brews, and simple breakfast favorites like pastries and sandwiches before heading out to explore Ocracoke.

The outdoor seating adds to the appeal, giving you a sunny perch to enjoy your drink, chat with locals, or just take in the morning breeze. It's an easy, welcoming stop that fits effortlessly into any day on the island.

11. 1718 Brewing Ocracoke

A local treasure serving outstanding craft beer and boasting a festive ambiance.

1718 Brewing Ocracoke is a local treasure serving outstanding craft beer and boasting a festive ambiance and a rooftop deck with fantastic sunset views.

Beer lovers will revel in their selection of handcrafted beers, ranging from IPAs and stouts to lagers and sours, all made with high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. Standouts include their flagship IPA, "Blackbeard's Breakfast" (a coffee-infused stout), and the seasonal "Fig & Raisin Ale." Beyond the superb beer, the rustic decor and nautical theme create a delightful ambiance for unwinding and meeting locals.

Moreover, 1718 Brewing is a hub of local culture and community, hosting meetings and events. If you're traveling with pets, they're more than welcome to join in the fun.

Beloved Local Shops & Boutiques

12. Mermaid's Folly

Find an eclectic array of clothing, jewelry, bags, and hats that capture the essence of a sea-spirited wanderer.

Discover the unique offerings at Mermaid's Folly, where you'll find an eclectic array of clothing, jewelry, bags, and hats that capture the essence of a sea-spirited wanderer. This charming local shop features a curated selection of Ocracoke-themed T-shirts, stylish hats, accessories, towels, blankets, and even fresh flowers.

13. Variety Store

The only grocery store on the island.

As the only grocery store on the island, the Variety Store is a must-visit during your stay. Since its beginnings, it has offered a great range of products in a convenient and welcoming setting where you'll find everything you need: groceries, snacks, drinks, ice, beach goods, hardware, and much more.

In search of fresh-cut meats, gourmet cheeses, dairy products, bread, spices, sauces, and vegan and gluten-free options? Variety Store has it all! They also sell grab-and-go sandwiches and pre-packed foods, great for your beach day and picnics. Speaking of the beach, this is a mandatory stop if you need beach essentials such as chairs, shades, sunscreen, and more.

14. Village Craftsmen

High-quality American-made handcrafts, featuring pottery, jewelry, kitchen utensils, soaps, and much more. 

This charming store is where you'll find high-quality American-made handcrafts, featuring pottery, jewelry, wooden kitchen utensils, bells, soaps, kaleidoscopes, prints, and much more. Village Craftsmen has been around since the 1970s, making it extra pleasant to support this local business.

Here you'll find something for every budget, and their extensive collection of crafts makes for unique souvenirs to take home. The staff and owner are exceptionally friendly, adding to the welcoming atmosphere of the store. Be sure to check out their beautiful old-school cash register during your visit; you'll definitely want to take a picture for your social media.

15. Zillie's Wine Shop

 
A go-to place for high-quality wines and microbrews.

Looking for wine and gourmet snacks? There's no place like Zillie's Wine Shop, often described as a quaint New England-style sundry shop.

This is the go-to place for high-quality wines and microbrews, with a selection that will satisfy every taste bud. They also sell gourmet snacks and cheeses that pair perfectly with their wines and beers. While Zillie's is not a restaurant, you can hang out and relax on their deck, savoring your purchases in a cozy environment.

Savor every second of your Ocracoke getaway

Stay like a local with Ocracoke Island Realty, where the island's most inviting vacation rentals are ready and waiting. You'll find waterfront homes with private docks, cozy cottages that welcome pets, and roomy spots with pools perfect for lazy afternoons. Every house has its own personality since each one is individually owned, so you get a place that truly fits your style. And if you need help choosing, our team of year-round locals is great at matching guests with the right home.

Curious what's waiting for you? Take a look at our rentals and find your match.