Aye, mates! Lore and legend abound in the state, and there’s a rich treasure chest of it on the Outer Banks. The story of Blackbeard’s ghost on Ocracoke Island has captured the attention of both history buffs and everyday visitors for centuries, ever since the legendary pirate, Edward Teach, met his demise in the island’s waters in 1718. Blackbeard, larger than life in the stories about his exploits along the NC coast, was indeed a formidable force in maritime history.

Although he called the town of Bath home, Ocracoke Island was a favored hideout and where he ultimately ran into the business end of the Royal British Navy. It’s where he died and where his headless body is said to have swum three times around the ship of those sent to kill or capture him before sinking. Legend has it that his ghost still roams the area today, looking for its head. Strange lights are said to appear underwater in the area, and on stormy nights, reports of a strange booming voice carried on the wind utters “where’s my head?” and haunts all who hear it.