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Where to Find Craft Beers on Ocracoke Island, NC

North Carolina’s craft beer scene is amazing, full of innovation and quality. Cities like Asheville, Raleigh, and Charlotte are famous for their craft breweries. Even though it’s smaller and quieter, Ocracoke Island also has some cherished local craft beer spots that locals and travelers love. These spots are perfect for meeting fellow beer enthusiasts and wrapping up a day of soaking in the stunning nature and rich maritime history.

Wondering where to head for great craft beers on the island? You’re in the right place! In this blog, we bring you a guide on where to find craft beers on Ocracoke Island, NC.

At Ocracoke Island Realty, we offer a variety of rentals close to the island’s best craft beer spots. Whether you’re into cozy beachfront cottages or spacious houses, we have the perfect place for your stay.

Want to live like a local? Check out our destination blog. Besides the best craft beer locations, we’ve got the scoop on great local events, the perfect spots to have breakfast and much more. Our blog is packed with articles and local insights to help you make the most of your stay.

Now let’s start some beer explorations!

TLDR

1718 Brewing Ocracoke: Brewery and tasting room. Food options from Plum Pointe Kitchen. Family-friendly and dog-friendly.
SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill: Fantastic menu with seafood dishes, burgers, wraps, and salads. Family and dog-friendly.
Howard’s Pub: Diverse menu featuring seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Family-friendly.
Zillie’s Island Pantry: Offers gourmet snacks, cheeses, and gift items with a wide selection of craft beers and wines. Cozy vibe, dog-friendly.
Important Tips: Respect local laws and plan transportation.
FAQ: Info on family-friendly spots, pet policies, drinking age, and more.

1718 Brewing Ocracoke is the go-to craft brewery on Ocracoke Island. Named after the year Blackbeard was captured nearby, this spot fully embraces the island’s adventurous vibe.

They’ve got a wide range of handcrafted beers, from IPAs and stouts to lagers and sours, using high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques.

The relaxed, family-friendly ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating, rustic decor, and a nautical theme, makes it a cozy place to enjoy a pint. It’s more than a brewery; it’s a hub of local culture and community, perfect for unwinding after exploring the island, meeting locals, and enjoying live music and events.

It gets better — if you have your furry companion in tow, 1718 Brewing is generally welcoming to dogs, especially in outdoor areas. Friendly staff, a diverse beer selection, and a welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit for any beer enthusiast!

Local Fun fact: Blackbeard was the rockstar of pirates, with a fearsome beard and fuses in his hat to look extra scary. His flagship was the Queen Anne’s Revenge, and he caused quite a commotion around Ocracoke Island. But his pirate days ended in 1718 off the coast of North Carolina.

SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill

SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill is another staple on Ocracoke Island, known for its laid-back vibe, stunning water views, and excellent beer selection. While not a craft brewery, they offer a great variety of beers including Bud Light, Miller Light, Michelob Ultra, Corona, White Claw, and Bells 2 Hearted IPA, plus microbrews and draught options.

Their menu is fantastic, featuring seafood dishes, burgers, wraps, salads, and a kid’s menu. Favorites include the Mango Shrimp Wrap, Fried Oyster Dinner, and SMAX Burger. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating by the water makes it perfect for a breezy summer day.

They do welcome dogs in their outdoor seating areas. Just make sure your furry friend is leashed and friendly.

Zillie’s Island Pantry

Zillie’s Island Pantry is also a great spot for craft beer lovers visiting Ocracoke Island. This gourmet market offers an extensive selection of microbrews and craft beers from North Carolina and around the world, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal brews. And for those who are not into beer, they also have a fantastic selection of wines.

With a relaxed, welcoming vibe, indoor and outdoor seating, and a cozy deck with fire pits, Zillie’s is perfect for enjoying local flavors and mingling with the community. Friendly staff and a laid-back atmosphere make it a must-visit.

Plus, you can pick up some delightful products to take back to your rental and enjoy with friends and family. They offer a delightful selection of gourmet snacks, cheeses, and gift items. Besides their extensive craft beer and wine options, they have premium cigars and other specialty products. These items are perfect for picking up and enjoying back at your rental with friends and family.

Oh, and the outdoor seating area allows for dogs, making it a good spot for pet owners.

Howard’s Pub

Looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a great beer on Ocracoke Island? Howard’s Pub is where you want to be. This lively pub offers an selection of beers, including local craft brews, IPAs, stouts, and lagers. You’ll find everything from classic favorites to unique local options, ensuring a great experience for all beer enthusiasts.

If you ever get peckish, the food menu is just as impressive, featuring fresh seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Some must-try dishes include the Blackened Tuna, Crab Cake Sandwich, Conch Fritters, and Buffalo Shrimp. Kid’s meals are also available, creatively served on frisbees.

With its relaxed, family-friendly vibe, both indoor and outdoor seating, and rustic decor, Howard’s Pub is perfect for enjoying great food and drinks.

The extra friendly service makes the entire experience even better. Howard’s Pub is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a hub of local culture and community.

It’s a must-visit spot on Ocracoke Island for anyone looking to enjoy good food, great beer, and a lively atmosphere.

Important Tips for Enjoying Ocracoke Island’s Local Brews

Exploring the breweries and bars on Ocracoke Island is a great way to taste local flavors and immerse yourself in the island’s culture. It’s also a perfect opportunity to meet locals who are passionate about their craft.

When vacationing on Ocracoke Island, it’s wise to keep a few things in mind when you’re out for a drink. Here are some helpful tips:

Respect Local Laws: Stay informed about the local alcohol regulations, such as the legal drinking age and rules regarding open containers.
Plan Your Transportation: Walking and biking are the most recommended options for a night out on Ocracoke.

While Ocracoke Island is generally safe, these tips are useful anywhere you go. Following them will help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable drinking experience. Enjoy your visit and the local brews!

FAQ: The Best Craft Breweries on Ocracoke Island, NC

This FAQ is here to help you navigate the best craft breweries on Ocracoke Island, offering insights into family-friendly spots, pet-friendly policies, local laws, and tips to enhance your visit.

Which breweries and bars are family-friendly?

1718 Brewing Ocracoke: Family-friendly with a relaxed atmosphere and indoor/outdoor seating.
SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill: Very family-friendly with a kid’s menu and a laid-back vibe.
Howard’s Pub: Extremely child-friendly, offering kid’s meals creatively served on frisbees.
Zillie’s Island Pantry: While not specifically child-focused, it’s welcoming to families.

Are these places dog-friendly?

1718 Brewing Ocracoke: Yes, dogs are welcome, especially in outdoor areas.
SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill: Yes, dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating areas.
Howard’s Pub: No pets allowed.
Zillie’s Island Pantry: Yes, the outdoor seating area allows for dogs.

What is the legal drinking age in North Carolina?

The legal drinking age in North Carolina is 21 years old.

What are the alcohol and glass bottle rules on Ocracoke Island?

Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed on Ocracoke Island beaches, except for spirits, distilled liquor, or fortified wines. Open containers are illegal in the passenger compartment of a vehicle. North Carolina DUI laws apply to 4WD drivers on the beach and on the road (a BAC of .08 or greater is illegal for drivers).
Glass Bottles: Glass bottles are permitted within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, but littering is not allowed. Trash cans are available at many public parking areas and the Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach.

Do these places serve food?

1718 Brewing Ocracoke: Food options from adjoining Plum Pointe Kitchen, including crab stuffed pretzels, smoked wings and steak night on Thursdays, and homemade dessert options.
SmacNally’s Waterfront Bar & Grill: Yes, they have a fantastic menu with seafood dishes, burgers, wraps, and salads.
Howard’s Pub: Yes, they offer a diverse menu featuring seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Zillie’s Island Pantry: Offers gourmet snacks, cheeses, and gift items that are perfect for enjoying with their extensive selection of craft beers and wines.

For more detailed insights, make sure to check out their websites and ask locals about their favorite spots — they’re bound to have some awesome recommendations! Enjoy your visit and happy beer exploring!

Where to stay in Ocracoke Island, NC

If you choose to vacation with Ocracoke Island Realty, you’ll have an unparalleled experience of relaxation and adventure on the stunning shores of Ocracoke Island.

Our local expertise means you’ll have access to insider tips on the best activities, dining, and attractions on Ocracoke Island. Our rental properties are top-notch, equipped with all the amenities and comforts you and your family need for a memorable vacation by the sea.