The last 2 weeks of December I rode my bike withg family in tow to the Outer Banks,NC. What a relief from the single digit temps in New England and not to mention the 8 day power outtage. Theres lots to see and do out there. While most stuff was closed there was enough stuff opened to enjoy a good meal, 200 different beers and enough natural beauty to enjoy. The island was a ghost town and void of most tourist, just locals. That was great for me. I would have liked to see the Black Beard exibit but maybe another time.

Here are a few photos of that:

 

Been to Howard's Pub a few times. If you go during the summer or early fall, remember to get off the island before sunset or the mosquitoes will eat you alive.

 

I like the free ferry from the banks, used it as a route to Myrtle Beach in 07, great place to ride.

 

Howards Pub was excellent. Had the best rib eye steak ever, man it was deliscious. And the beer selection was over whelming. It was a near ghost town and Howards reflected that. Great atmosphere and service.

I don't imagine you'll find me over there during popular season. Don't like crowds and usually head in the oposite direction. Bad things happen. I don't play well with others. Anti-social etc...

Ocracoke Island/Outer Banks was very relaxing and enjoyable at that time of the year. Beach was empty and temps, compared to where we came from (3 degrees), was perfect. It was about 65-72/75 degrees out. It did get to 29 degrees on the evening on the ride home.

We rented a house for cheap and the house was beautiful:

http://www.ocracokeharborinn.com/morning-star.htm

It was very inexpensive compared to coming during peak season. So lets review, not crowded, not expensive and comfortable temps. I'd do it again and hope to.

 

Its not free once you get to Ocracoke Island and heading south (unless I missed something, which is possible) is it? It is free like you said from the north down to Ocracoke, I think a total of 2, 30-40 minute ferry rides. When you got to Ocracoke was there a free ferry going further south? Was the ferry to Portsmouth ferry a free ferry too?

 

Been a while since I have been there, but if I recall correctly the ferry from Ocracoke south to Cedar Island had a cost to it and was a couple of hours in length. But what a wonderful ride! I think the winter is the best time to visit the Outer Banks - few people, no bugs, mild temperatures.

 

PJ,

(Looking at Road glides over vacation, last frontier for me.)

Thats how we traversed...Cedar Island to Ocracoke ferry. 10$ for bikes and 15$ for cages.

To Ocracoke it was a smooth ride. Not so coming home. Ferry was rocking and lurching to beat the band. I didn't get sick but I sure didn't like it either. Saw dolphins leaping along side the ferry as approaching and leaving Ocracoke Island. Grandson was standing there too and saw them. What a treat.

 

Only the one from the outer banks is free, I had to pay going from the banks to the other side, I can't remember which one I took but there are two that go to different places. I was headed to MB and it was a great ride, about 2 hrs if I remember correctly.

 

I shudder to think how congested it must be during July-August..........

How was it in May/Myrtle Beach?