A Local’s Guide to Outer Banks Lighthouses: What to See and When

Along the Outer Banks coast, five iconic lighthouses rise with purpose and a legacy to boast.

The Outer Banks lighthouses are symbols of endurance and identity. Built between the late 1700s and early 1900s, each lighthouse tells a story about shipwrecks, storms, and the mariners who depended on their glow. Today, most are open to the public during the warmer months, offering both educational exhibits and unforgettable climbs.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit: fewer crowds, cooler weather as you enjoy the panoramic views, and beautiful lights for photos to bring home.

Bodie Island Light Station welcome sign at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Outer Banks Lighthouse Highlights

1. Currituck Beach Lighthouse – Corolla (March to November)
   With its unpainted red brick and 220 steps to the top, it offers postcard-worthy views of the Currituck Sound and Atlantic Ocean. 
   
   
2. Bodie Island Lighthouse – Nags Head (April to October)
   Firm and stately with a classic striped design, Bodie Island Lighthouse sits near marshlands rich in birdlife. The climb is worth it, and the view from the base boardwalk is equally peaceful. 
   
   
3. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – Buxton (April to October)
   Known for its iconic black-and-white spiral, Cape Hatteras is the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. It once marked the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” where countless ships met their end in rough, shifting shoals. 

4. Ocracoke Lighthouse – Ocracoke (Grounds open year-round; Interior not climbable)
   At just 75 feet tall, Ocracoke’s lighthouse is the oldest still operating in North Carolina. It’s worth the trip for its peaceful vibe and historical significance.
   
   
5. Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse – Manteo (Year-round)
   This smaller, screw-pile lighthouse isn’t part of the original five but deserves a mention. It sits over the water in downtown Manteo and offers a scenic stroll with views of Shallowbag Bay. 

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse glowing at sunset in Manteo, Outer Banks.

Insider Tips

• Buy climbing tickets in advance for Bodie and Hatteras through recreation.gov.
• Bring water and wear sneakers, most climbs are over 200 steps!
• Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and soft coastal light.
• Nearby attractions include Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, and the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island.
  
  

Plan Your Trip

Rentalz makes it easy to find the perfect Outer Banks rental near your favorite lighthouse stops. If you're looking for an oceanfront escape in Corolla or a relaxing cottage in Buxton, you’ll find curated listings and local insights that’ll help you settle in like a native.

Each legendary lighthouse embodies its own story, but together, they paint a picture of the Outer Banks as a place shaped by the light.