Kat Travel Diary: Exploring the NC Coast

For the 4th of July weekend I visited my friend Sarah and some of her friends in Avon, NC on the outer banks. I really enjoyed the ocean and beach there and definitely want to come back. The journey started out with a 1 hour 45 minute drive from New Bern to my first ferry of the day. The Cherry Island ferry leaves at 7 but if you reserved a spot you had to arrive at least 30 minutes before. I had a spectacular sunrise to greet me on my way. The ferry ride was 2 hours and 15 minutes across to get to Ocracoke.

Selfie from the Ferry

Ocracoke Ferry

I took several hours to explore Ocracoke as recommended. Ocracoke is a small island. I recommend parking at the parking lot by the ferry (arrival) and walking. You can rent a golf cart or bike if you prefer. The town has lots of small shops, galleries and piers. You can take a walk to see the light house (not open to public inside, except on 4th of July) and enjoy a bite to eat. They even have a Blackbeard exhibit there!

Lighthouse on Ocracoke

I enjoyed a bite to eat at Howard's Pub and then walked back in the rain to get my truck and drive to the beach. If you have a 4x4 and a permit you can even drive on the beach. The water was soft and the perfect temp. I donned my rain jacket and enjoyed the beach all to myself! This time in Ocracoke was 'chicken soup to the soul' for me!

It's just rain! I think I enjoyed the beach during the rain more than I would have with sun!

Toes in the water!

Next I made my way onto my second ferry to Hattaras, 60 minute ride! Once there I made my way to Sarah's friend's trailer on Avon. We enjoyed 2.5 days on the beach just relaxing, swimming and hanging out.