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The entrance to the public lifeguarded beach at Ocracoke is located about a half mile north of the village along NC Highway 12.This beach is part of about sixteen miles of National Seashore and one of the most beautiful beaches on the eastern seaboard. Because it is protected from development, there are no houses or other buildings anywhere along the beach.
The lifeguards area of responsibility lies between the two flags. No surfboards or skim boards are allowed between the flags. However, rafts and other soft water sport equipment, such as foam body boards, are permitted. Please pay attention to announcements posted on the lifeguard stand’s board. Important information about ocean conditions is posted there. For your safety, take a moment to read the information about how to escape from rip currents. Rip currents are one of the most common causes of drowning on the Outer Banks.
The beach is reached by a boardwalk across the dunes. There is ample free parking, rest rooms and showers to rinse off. Camping is not allowed on the beach. If you are interested in having a beach fire, please see the NPS permits & reservations page.
Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day and the beach is officially open from 9-5, seven days a week.
