Outer Banks Scenic Byway
Visitor Services

Service	Description	Service	Description
	Fees Both ferries have tolls and recommend reservations due to tight time schedules. Call 1-800-BY-FERRY to confirm schedules and fees.		Accessibility Visitor facilities generally provide universal access. Cape Lookout Harkers Island center is accessible. Consult Cape Lookout... [more]
	Bicycle/Pedestrian Facilities The entire byway is mapped in two of North Carolina's recommended bicycle routes. The Mountains to the Sea Trail is mapped on... [more]		Food There are places to buy food along this byway.
	Gasoline Gasoline is available.		Information There are several places along the byway that provide visitor information, comfort and staff. As of 2009: Whalebone Junction is open... [more]
	Lodging Coastal hotels abound along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Every room has a view.		Phone Public phones are available along this byway.
	Restrooms There are toilet facilities along this byway.		Retail There are places to shop along this byway.

NOTE: The America's Byways® website is federally funded and cannot promote commercial businesses. This data may not be complete or up to date. The National Scenic Byways Program is not responsible for the quality of your travel experience. See the right column on the Byway Overview page for local contact information.

Special Considerations

There are no seasonal closures or other restrictions of the byway’s route, although ferries run on a reduced schedule outside warm months. Weather events may impede travel.

Restrictions

In warmer weather this road is well-traveled. Plan for extra time to make the ferry connections and accommodate bicyclists and beach-goers. Park only in designated areas, as sand is more difficult to get out of than ice and snow.

In Ocracoke, buses are encouraged not to drive up Lighthouse Road to Ocracoke Lighthouse. Drop-off is easy and the site is a short walk away. There are no other vehicle restrictions. Like all vehicles, buses need reservations on the Cedar Island ferry.

Seasons

Best Time to Drive

The beauty of the byway can be appreciated year-round but the best time to drive would be the warmer months. Fall, winter and spring are best for cultural experiences. Natural qualities are year-round.

High Season

Summer is high season for beach vacationers and traffic is heavy. Ferries need extra wait time. Ocracoke village is best visited Sat-Wed.

Off Season

There are no seasonal closures or other restrictions of the byway’s route, although ferries run on a reduced schedule outside warm months. Weather events may impede travel.

Shoulder Season

From Oct-May visitors should call ahead to check availability of historic sites.

Road Conditions

To find up to date information about the road conditions along Outer Banks Scenic Byway, please visit the FHWA listing of web sites for more information.

North Carolina