7 Coastal Lighthouses to Explore in North Carolina

Since 1875, the Currituck Beach Light Station has safeguarded vessels along the northern Outer Banks. Distinctive for its unpainted red-brick exterior—composed of approximately one million bricks—this active navigational aid stands apart from the traditional black-and-white towers found further south. Climbing season: Mid-March through December

Mark Allen

Lane guide

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

Corolla

Climbing season: Mid-March through December

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Nags Head

Traveling south on NC Highway 12 through Kitty Hawk and Nags Head brings you to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where the Bodie Island Lighthouse marks the entrance. The current structure represents the third iteration built at this location. Visitors can ascend 214 steps to enjoy panoramic coastal views.

Climbing season: Mid-April through mid-October

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Buxton

Continuing through the national seashore to Buxton reveals the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Completed in 1870, this towering black-and-white striped structure is recognized as America's tallest lighthouse and is often called "America's Lighthouse."

Note: Currently closed for restoration, unavailable for climbing

Ocracoke Lighthouse

Ocracoke

Accessible via complimentary ferry from Hatteras, Ocracoke Island hosts North Carolina's oldest continuously operational lighthouse. The bright white tower represents the nation's second-oldest active navigational aid. The secluded village, reachable only by air or water, once provided refuge for the legendary pirate Blackbeard, whose legacy permeates the area's history.

Cape Lookout Lighthouse

Harkers Island

Distinguished by its dramatic black-and-white diamond pattern, the Cape Lookout Lighthouse initially faced criticism from 19th-century sailors but later became the design prototype for subsequent Outer Banks towers. Situated as the southernmost lighthouse along the Crystal Coast, it requires private boat or ferry access.

Note: Extensive renovations through 2025 prevent climbing, but exterior viewing remains available

Oak Island Lighthouse

Caswell Beach

South of the Outer Banks in the Brunswick Islands, Oak Island Lighthouse boasts one of the world's most powerful navigational beams, visible from 16 nautical miles. While the grounds are publicly accessible, advance arrangements are recommended for the unique 131-step climb utilizing ship-style ladders to reach the gallery level.

Climbing season: Year-round by scheduled appointment

Old Baldy Lighthouse

Bald Head Island

North Carolina's southernmost lighthouse can be spotted from Oak Island. Reach this historic site by traveling to Southport and boarding the ferry to car-free Bald Head Island. The lighthouse's distinctive appearance reflects centuries of intermittent repairs and modifications throughout its 200-year history. Visitors can climb 108 steps to the top and explore the meticulously restored keeper's cottage.

Climbing season: March through December

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