There are a lot of things about the Outer Banks that I consider magical and iconic, but the lighthouses have to be one of my favorite magical, iconic things. If you're coming to the Outer Banks this summer and you want to experience the lighthouses up close, then you're in luck! Bodie Lighthouse is officially open for the season!
Standing nearly 165 feet tall, picturesque Bodie Island Lighthouse is a sight to behold. It is also quite old. It was built in 1872 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! It is the third lighthouse that was constructed to serve this area. Climbing Bodie Lighthouse is a seasonal tradition that all interested visitors should try once.
On April 26th, Bodie Lighthouse reopened to the public for the season. This means that, next time you're in the Outer Banks, you can climb the lighthouse!
Tickets for Bodie Lighthouse go on sale each day at 7am. You can only purchase tickets to climb the lighthouse on the day of your climb. On some days, sales can get competitive. Tickets are only available for purchase at www.recreation.gov/ticket/252034/ticket/10087143.
Typically, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse also offers chances to climb during the warmer months, but this year, it is unlikely that we'll get a climbing season due to restoration efforts. This might make ticket sales even more competitive. Be sure to plan accordingly!
Pro tip from Island Free Press: "Tickets sell out quickly, so create your www.recreation.gov account prior to the date you intend to purchase tickets."
Additionally, make sure that you read the requirements for climbing Bodie before you buy tickets. Since you're signing up for rigorous activity in a historic structure, there are strict rules that you'll need to adhere to.
Make plans to climb Bodie Lighthouse on your next trip to the Outer Banks! You don't want to pass up this memorable experience.