Exploring Ocracoke Island
& The Outer Banks
April 1 - 8, 2026

Ocracoke Island is part of the Outer Banks of North Carolina and is the southernmost island in Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The Outer Banks is a thin strand of broken islands that curve into the Atlantic Ocean and then back again creating a barrier that shelters the mainland coast of North Carolina. For thousands of years these barrier islands have survived the battering winds and seas, all the while protecting the mainland from these same onslaughts. Today, their long stretches of beach, sand dunes, marshes and woodlands are set aside as Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Cape Lookout National Seashore and are protected by the National Park Service. Dedicated in 1953, Cape Hatteras was this country’s first national seashore 

This naturalist-led JGO tour will provide a wonderful array of opportunities to learn about and experience the natural history and cultural history of the Outer Banks while staying on Ocracoke Island and visiting Hatteras and Portsmouth Islands. 

April on Ocracoke Island
April is one of the very best times to visit Ocracoke. With excellent all-around weather conditions and because it is a slower time of the year with fewer tourists, April provides a unique experience on the island. The mosquitoes may be thick in some areas, though this can vary from year to year. Being prepared is a sure way to make your time pleasant; so just in case, a long-sleeved lightweight shirt and pants, head net and insect repellent will do the trick.