Ocracoke
 

We are a couple looking for a quick, last minute Thanksgiving getaway from Virginia Beach. We've been numerous times to OBX, but have never been to Ocracoke. Are there there any establishments that offer Thanksgiving dinner? Is there any point in going there at this time of year? I realize this is probably a sleepy town this time of year, but we are not looking for much to do or see, but basically check out the place. Any natives have thoughts on this? Thanks.

Howard's Pub and Raw Bar -- something of an institution -- is open 365 and says it has a "full Thanksgiving Dinner" -- according to their website.

We ferried to Ocracoke just last month. As it happened, we also ate at Howard's for lunch. It was ok.

Once we docked, we drove the 12 miles of the island, ate lunch and headed back to the ferry. Personally, I didn't see much to do unless you want to fish.

Curious

We've been to Ocrakoke in the summer, and thought it was a very restful, scenic island. I agree with Curious's summation that there isn't a whole lot to do there. We also found it a bit insular; it was one of very few locations that we've felt uncomfortable visiting - we left with the impression that tourists are somewhat resented. That said, it's foolish to make generalizations; we met friendly folks there too. Beautiful spot.

There is a lighthouse you can't climb, a nice town, and various other attractions. In my opinion, it is a great place to go. There are nice, uncrowded beaches and is quaint. Howard's Pub is great in my opinion. For activities, check out the Portsmouth Island ATV Tours. I haven't taken one them but have always wanted to. Since you would be staying in Ocracoke, you wouldn't be getting home in the dark. They are long tours, (something like 6-8 hours), so a whole day. This is why I have not done it because I never stay in Ocracoke. I usally stay up in Nags Head. But, from what i've read, they take you over to Portsmouth Island by boat (with the ATVs on the boat), then you ride ATV's down the beach for 40 miles or so. You see a ghost town and beautiful isolated beach. I don't think the prices are too expensive ether considering the boat ride and everything else.