Over the years Ocracoke Island in North
Carolina has repeatedly tickled various lists of America's Best
Beaches. It was probably on Blackbeard's list of favorite beaches
as well until the notorious pirate's career ended here on November
22, 1718, his body riddled with five British Royal Navy musketballs
and 20 sword lacerations.
Late November is an ideal time to bring
your dog to uncrowded Ocracoke. The 16-mile long island, only
a few hundred yards wide at some points, is isolated at the end
of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Its white sand beaches are
reachable only by private plane or boat ride from the mainland
(the ferry ride is 2 1/2 hours from the mainland) and by a free
40-minute ferry from the end of Hatteras Island.
These are wilderness beaches - no boardwalks
and concession to attract families and casual sun worshippers.
Ocracoke Village is the only settlement on the island, a lightly
populated working fishing village. It all adds up to long stretches
of deserted sand for your dog any time of the year.
There is also a Nature Trail to hke with your dog opposite the
National Park Service campground.
For swimming there is frolicing in the
Atlantic Ocean waves for the experienced canine swimmer.
If gentler water is your dog's desire just turn around and walk
across to the Pimlico Sound. Either way, after a visit to Ocracoke,
it will surely leap onto your dog's list of favorite beaches.
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