Ocracoke Lighthouse and Spring Point

At the southwest end of the village, where Silver Lake Harbor meets the sound, two of Ocracoke's oldest landmarks sit within easy walking distance of each other: a lighthouse that's marked this inlet since 1823, and a maritime forest tied to the island's most notorious visitor.

Ocracoke Lighthouse

Built in 1823, Ocracoke Lighthouse is the second-oldest operating lighthouse in the United States and the oldest still standing in North Carolina. It's a squat, whitewashed tower built for function rather than show, and it has never been open for public climbing. The grounds and keeper's quarters make for a worthwhile stop even without a trip up the stairs.

Springer's Point

A short walk from the lighthouse, Springer's Point protects one of the last patches of maritime forest left on the island — old live oaks, red cedar, and a trail that winds down to the sound. The point is traditionally linked to Blackbeard, who was killed in a battle in nearby Ocracoke Inlet in 1718, giving this quiet stretch of woods a real claim to pirate history.

The two make an easy pairing with a walk around Silver Lake Harbor, especially in early morning or evening light when the maritime forest is at its best.