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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