A buccaneer's final haven

Welcome to Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, United States. This is a place where history and nature intertwine. This secluded island, reachable only by ferry or small plane, offers 25 kilometres of untouched beaches and a wealth of stories. The Ocracoke Lighthouse, seen in today's image, stands out as a notable landmark. The lighthouse celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2023, making it the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in North Carolina. It boasts an 8,000-candlepower light, which can be seen up to 22 kilometres offshore.
© Chansak Joe/Getty Images