Where to Find Craft Beers on Ocracoke Island, NC

A fun roundup of Ocracoke Island's best places for craft beer, local flavor, and laid-back coastal vibes, featuring breweries, waterfront bars, cozy markets, and community hangouts loved by locals and travelers alike.

North Carolina's craft beer scene is no joke: it's packed with creativity, bold flavors, and breweries that locals brag about. Asheville, Raleigh, and Charlotte get most of the spotlight, but Ocracoke holds its own in the best way. This laid-back little island has a couple of beloved craft beer hangouts that draw both locals and travelers. They're great for swapping stories with fellow beer fans and winding down after a day spent taking in the island's views and maritime history.

Here's a quick taste of what's brewing:

1. Zillie's Island Pantry: Craft beer, wines, fire pits, gourmet snacks, friendly locals, and a cozy deck.
2. 1718 Brewing Ocracoke: Small-batch brews, live music, creative beer blends, and a dog-friendly outdoor setup.
3. SmacNally's Waterfront Bar: Harbor views, easygoing open-air seating, seafood favorites, and microbrews.
4. Howard's Pub: A local hangout with a big beer selection, hearty meals, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

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 blog post, I'll show you exactly where to find the best craft beers on Ocracoke Island so you can savor local flavors, enjoy vibrant vibes, and meet friendly locals.

Time to dig into the details!

1. Zillie's Island Pantry

A cozy gourmet market with a serious passion for craft beer and wine.

Zillie's is a cozy gourmet market with a serious passion for craft beer and wine. The shelves are stocked with microbrews from around North Carolina and far beyond, plus cheeses, snacks, cigars, and specialty goods that pair beautifully with whatever you pick. Guests can sip their drinks on the deck, relax near the fire pits, and chat with locals who stop by for their evening unwind.

What you'll love

• A huge craft beer selection, from NC staples to international finds.
• Wines for every taste, including great seasonal and limited-release bottles.
• A welcoming deck with seating and fire pits.
• Gourmet snacks, cheeses, and picnic-friendly treats.
• Friendly staff who offer great pairing suggestions.
• Premium cigars and specialty pantry items.
• Dog-friendly outdoor seating.

2. 1718 Brewing Ocracoke

Small-batch brews, friendly vibe, live music, and community events.

1718 Brewing is Ocracoke Island's homegrown craft brewery, named after the year Blackbeard met his end nearby. The atmosphere is easygoing and full of character, with rustic nautical touches and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating. Families, beer lovers, and curious travelers drift in for small-batch brews and the friendly vibe. Live music and community events keep things lively, and dogs are welcome outside, which adds to the fun.

What you'll love

• A rotating lineup of IPAs, stouts, lagers, sours, and seasonal brews.
• Creative blends such as coffee-infused stouts and fig-forward ales.
• Indoor and outdoor seating with a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
• Frequent live music, community events, and pop-up food vendors.
• Friendly staff who know their beer and love to chat about it.
• Dog-friendly outdoor areas.

3. SmacNally's Waterfront Bar

An impressive beer selection covering crowd favorites along with local microbrews.

Sitting right on Silver Lake Harbor and giving you front-row views of boats gliding in and out, SmacNally's has an impressive beer selection covering crowd favorites along with local microbrews. They also serve fresh seafood, casual bites, and comfort food. The open-air setup keeps everything breezy and laid-back, and it's a fun place for families, groups, and anyone who enjoys a cold drink by the water.

What you'll love

• Cold beers ranging from easy classics to regional microbrews.
• Open-air seating with views of the harbor.
• A big menu with seafood platters, wraps, burgers, and salads.
• Highlights such as the Mango Shrimp Wrap, Fried Oyster Dinner, and SMAX Burger.
• Dogs are welcome in outdoor seating areas.
• Afternoon views of charter boats unloading their catch.
• Live music during the busy season.

4. Howard's Pub

IPAs, stouts, lagers, and plenty of local options.

This local institution has been part of Ocracoke's social scene for decades and keeps the energy upbeat with good food, great beer, and friendly service. Howard's beer list is long, covering IPAs, stouts, lagers, and plenty of local options. The menu is full of crowd pleasers, and families appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and playful touches like kids' meals served on frisbees.

What you'll love

• A large beer selection that includes NC craft brews.
• Fresh seafood, sandwiches, salads, and hearty pub favorites.
• Popular dishes such as Blackened Tuna, Conch Fritters, Buffalo Shrimp, and Crab Cake Sandwiches.
• Indoor and outdoor seating with a casual, lively atmosphere.
• Family-friendly service and fun touches for kids.
• A long history as a hangout loved by locals and returning guests.

Important Tips for Enjoying Ocracoke Island's Local Brews

Exploring the breweries and bars on Ocracoke Island is a great way to taste local flavors and immerse yourself in the island's culture. It's also a perfect opportunity to meet locals who are passionate about their craft.

When vacationing on Ocracoke Island, it's wise to keep a few things in mind when you're out for a drink. Here are some helpful tips:

• Respect Local Laws: Stay informed about the local alcohol regulations, such as the legal drinking age and rules regarding open containers. Open containers aren't allowed in vehicles, and spirits aren't permitted on the beach.
  
  
• Walk or bike to your beer stops: Ocracoke is small and easy to navigate, so skip the car and enjoy the island at a slower pace.
  
  
• Check opening hours before heading out: Some spots operate seasonally or adjust hours depending on the day.
  
  
• Try something local: Many places feature North Carolina brews or island-inspired blends you won't find elsewhere.
  
  
• Ask the staff for recommendations: Locals know what's pouring well and what pairs nicely with the menu.
  
  
• Stay hydrated: The island sun sneaks up fast, and a glass of water between beers keeps the day enjoyable.
  
  
• Respect shared spaces: Decks, patios, and waterfront areas get busy during peak season, so be mindful of others looking to enjoy the view.
  
  
• Plan your return route: If you're staying out after dark, make sure you can safely walk or bike back to your rental.

FAQ: The Best Craft Breweries on Ocracoke Island, NC

This FAQ is here to help you navigate the best craft breweries on Ocracoke Island, offering insights into family-friendly spots, pet-friendly policies, local laws, and tips to enhance your visit.

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.