Ocracoke Island’s Springer’s Point

Anyone who knows me, knows that I like to take some time once or twice a year to recharge on a little island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina called Ocracoke. Ocracoke is a small island located south of Hatteras, accessible only via ferry. The island is known for being the location of Blackbeard’s death in 1718, and is home to a quaint village of houses and shops adored by many Outer Banks vacationers.

While staying on the island, I often go for a morning walk around the village. I stop at Ocracoke Coffee Company for my morning caffeine, and then walk over past the Ocracoke Lighthouse to Springer’s Point where I sit watching the waves, birds and fishermen. It’s the perfect start to my relaxing Ocracoke day. SPringer’s Point is a hidden gem, and shouldn’t be missed if you find yourself on Ocracoke.

Springer’s Point was opened to the public on May 20, 2006. It consists of over 120 acres of forest, salt marsh, wet grasslands, and beach home to many birds, reptiles, and other animals. The Preserve was purchased by the Coastal Land Trust in an effort to save some of the last uninhabited land on the island.

The Coastal Land Trust was created to enrich the coastal communities of North Carolina through conservation of natural areas and working landscapes, education, and the promotion of good land stewardship. The Trust was founded in 1992, and is one of 24 land trusts in North Carolina.

Located about a quarter mile away from the Ocracoke Lighthouse, Spinger’s Point is only accessible by foot or bike- there is no parking available for vehicles. Here visitors will find a short trail which is hikable out to the soundside beach.

Just off Springer’s Point lies Teach’s Hole. The pirate Blackbeard spent much of his time in this area, and ultimately met his demise just off shore. The area was named Teach’s Hole in his honor.

My last trip to Ocracoke was cut short due to Dorian, but with the support and help of many, they will be ready to welcome me back soon. However, the island and it’s residents continue to need assistance in their efforts to rebuild. If you’d like to donate to the Outer Banks Disaster Relief Fund (you can designate fund to go directly to Ocracoke), please donate here.