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Lay of the Land in the Outer Banks

Ocracoke can only be reached in two ways, by air or by sea. If you're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals there, I strongly recommend taking a ferry, as the first method is only available via private plane and is quite costly. There are three ferries available for public transportation. One of them is free and connects the island on the north side to the largest island in the Outer Banks, Hatteras Island. The other two ferries run between the island and Swan Quarter on the mainland and Cedar Island, which is not part of the Outer Banks. Highway NC 12 runs the length of the island, and the Ocracoke Island Airport is just outside of Ocracoke village. It is not a commercial facility, and is only used for small private planes to fly in and out.

Possibly one of the most fascinating features of the island is a cemetery that is the only non-embassy plot of land in the United States owned by another country's government. It's a cemetery for British sailors from WWII, and it flies the British flag 365 days per year. It is owned by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which is a commission run by several governments that is located in the UK. The cemetery contains the remains of British sailors that fell victim to German submarines during World War II, particularly from the HMT Bedfordshire. The memorial park is officially a British cemetery, and as long as it remains such the land will be owned by the UK. If you're getting Outer Banks vacation rentals in Ocracoke, be sure to visit this fascinating location.

Ocracoke village is located near Silver Lake Harbor. The village is sited at the widest point of the island, with sand dunes on to the east and a marshland to the west. The average elevation of the island is only five feet above sea level. Knowing this, you'll realize why most of the buildings on the island are built up on posts instead of on ground-level foundations. North America's second oldest lighthouse, Ocracoke Lighthouse, is to be found near Silver Lake and is well worth a visit if your Outer Banks vacation rentals are close.

If you're expecting a large business center, you might want to look to another place. The commercial areas on the island subsist almost solely on tourism. The stable population is said to be around 700, with most of the island closing down in the winter. During the warm months, you'll find bars, restaurants, and lots of small shops and other businesses open. And don't expect to find your favorite chain restaurant or clothing store while you're there - every establishment is locally owned and operated.

You can expect excellent beaches when staying at Outer Banks vacation rentals. In 2007 they were ranked as America's Best Beach, and it has always hovered near the top 5.

If you're a Civil War buff, you'll be pleased to know that Fort Ocracoke is also a local feature. It was a Confederate defense built near the beginning of the war, and was deserted in August of 1861 when the Union took Hatteras Island. The island where it existed is now under water, but excavations have since recognized the remains to the southwest of the main island.

I think it's fairly easy to see that Outer Banks vacation rentals have a lot to offer in addition to just fantastic beaches and blue water. Think about what islands have features that would fit your family vacation, and reserve a rental soon.

About the Author

Allen Wright is a freelance writer who follows whatever topics hold his interest. Look for more information on Outer Banks vacation rentals and other great vacation rentals here.

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