Ocracoke Inlet

The pirate Captain Blackbeard was killed in battle just inside the inlet at what was subsequently known as Teach's Hole, on November 22, 1718.

During the American Revolutionary War, many supplies that helped the Continental Army under General George Washington came through this inlet.

At one time, Portsmouth Island was the most densely populated place on the entire Outer Banks.

In A New Voyage to Carolina, published in 1709, John Lawson (explorer) wrote: Ocacock is the best Inlet and Harbour yet in this Country; and has 13 Foot at Low-water upon the Bar.

Ocracoke Inlet is used by the National Hurricane Center as a breakpoint for tropical cyclone watches and warnings.

View from Portsmouth U.S. Life-Saving Station overlooking Coast Guard Creek and Ocracoke Inlet. Shores of Ocracoke Island can be seen in the background.
Map of Ocracoke and vicinity, ca 1775