Introduction

The striking lighthouses of the Outer Banks in North Carolina have been guiding ships to safety for over a century. With unique histories, designs, and charm, these iconic landmarks offer a must-visit destination for lighthouse enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking stunning East Coast views. The Outer Banks lighthouse guide on this list will leave you awestruck. From the tallest brick lighthouse in America to a black and white barber pole style lighthouse, these lighthouses offer an eclectic mix of architectural styles and captivating stories that will leave you spellbound.

So, whether you're a seasoned lighthouse aficionado or an adventurous explorer, the Outer Banks beckon you with open arms to witness the extraordinary. Get ready to capture breathtaking shots, pack your bags and come along on this enchanting journey of discovery.

8 Outer Banks Light Houses Attractions that you should never miss out on in 2023

• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse - Buxton

  The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, located in Buxton, North Carolina, is widely recognized as one of the most iconic lighthouses in the United States. Towering at a height of 198 feet, it is known for its distinctive black and white spiral stripes, making it easily recognizable from miles away. The lighthouse has a rich history dating back to 1803 and is considered a testament to the importance of coastal navigation during the early years of the United States.
  
  Visitors can climb the lighthouse's 257 steps to reach its observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning Outer Banks landscapes. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Outer Banks and is a testament to the area's unique and rich history.

• Bodie Island Light Station - Nags Head

  The Bodie Island Light Station in Nags Head is regarded as one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the Outer Banks. This lighthouse, which was recently restored to its original condition, stands 156 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding regions. It was first lit in 1872 and has welcomed countless visitors from around the world ever since.
  
  The light station has been fully restored and its museum features exhibits that provide fascinating insights into the history of the lighthouse, its keepers, and the essential role it played in keeping sailors safe. A climb up to the top of Bodie Island Light Station provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is an experience that visitors of all ages will surely cherish for a lifetime.

• Currituck Beach Lighthouse - Corolla

  The Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla, North Carolina is a historic landmark and a must-visit site for tourists and locals alike. Built in 1875, this red brick lighthouse stands tall at 162 feet and offers breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, Currituck Sound, and the surrounding beaches. This lighthouse is unique in its design, featuring horizontal black and white stripes rather than the traditional vertical stripes.
  
  Climbing the lighthouse's 220 steps to reach the top is an adventure in itself, and once you reach the observation deck, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the natural beauty that surrounds it. The Currituck Beach Lighthouse is one of the top 8 Outer Banks lighthouses and is definitely worth a visit.

• Ocracoke Lighthouse - Ocracoke

  The Ocracoke Lighthouse, located in Ocracoke, North Carolina, is one of the most picturesque lighthouses along the Outer Banks stretch. Built in 1823, it stands at 75 feet tall and is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina. The tower, painted in white and black spirals, is surrounded by a fence and a beautifully manicured garden, offering visitors a stunning view of the surrounding area.
  
  This lighthouse stands at the southernmost point of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and is accessible by ferry or private boat. It's a popular destination for visitors who are interested in learning about the rich maritime history of the Outer Banks. Its charm and historical significance make it one of the must-visit lighthouses in the area.

• Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse - Manteo

  The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse in Manteo, North Carolina is one of the top lighthouses to visit when exploring the Outer Banks region. Built in 1877, this lighthouse served as an important navigational aid for ships traveling through the hazardous Roanoke Sound. Today, it stands as a symbol of the area's rich maritime history and continues to attract visitors from around the world.
  
  The lighthouse can be accessed by a short boardwalk and is open for tours during the summer months. Visitors can climb up to the lantern room for panoramic views of the surrounding scenery, and learn about the life of the lighthouse keepers who maintained the light. Overall, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse serves as a must-visit destination for those interested in the history and culture of the Outer Banks region.

• Roanoke River Lighthouse - Edenton

  The Roanoke River Lighthouse, located in the town of Edenton, is one of the most iconic and historical landmarks of North Carolina's Outer Banks. Built in 1886, this unique lighthouse guided mariners through the twists and turns of the Roanoke River for over a century before it was decommissioned in 1941. Today, after extensive restorations, the lighthouse has become a popular tourist destination and a testament to the region's rich history.
  
  The Roanoke River Lighthouse is also noteworthy for its unique design and construction, with an iron frame and wooden exterior that sets it apart from other lighthouses in the area. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for incredible views of Edenton Bay and learn about the lighthouse's history through the on-site museum. For anyone interested in North Carolina's maritime history, the Roanoke River Lighthouse is an absolute must-see.

• Cape Lookout Lighthouse - Harkers Island

  The Outer Banks of North Carolina are famous for their lighthouses, and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse on Harkers Island stands out as one of the most iconic. Located on the southern end of the Outer Banks, this historic structure has guided ships safely through the treacherous waters of Diamond Shoals since it first lit up the night sky back in 1859. Standing at 163 feet tall, it features a distinctive black-and-white diamond pattern that makes it easy to spot from miles away, making it an essential landmark for any maritime traveler.
  
  In addition to its historical significance, the Cape Lookout Lighthouse is also renowned for its ecological value, having been designated a National Seashore in 1966, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Whether you're interested in history, scenic coastal views, or environmental conservation, the Cape Lookout Lighthouse is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Outer Banks.

• Bogue Banks Lighthouse - Emerald Isle

  The Bogue Banks Lighthouse, located in Emerald Isle, is a remarkable landmark worth visiting on any tour of the Outer Banks. This lighthouse was built in 1859 to guide maritime traffic along the North Carolina coast, and it stands at a lofty 141 feet tall. The lighthouse has since been decommissioned and officially became part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
  
  The Bogue Banks Lighthouse is well-known for its unique architectural style, which features an octagonal tower with double gallery porches. The tower is painted in unmistakable black and white stripes, which makes it easy to identify from a distance. With the stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the rolling coastal landscapes that surround the lighthouse, it is a great location for observing wildlife and the surrounding natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

The Outer Banks region of North Carolina is home to some of the most spectacular and historic lighthouses in the country and among them some are a bit near to hotels in outer banks as well. From the towering and iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse to the charming and picturesque Bodie Island Lighthouse, each one offers something unique and special for visitors to explore.

Whether you are a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day trip with family and friends, the Outer Banks lighthouses are not to be missed. Plan your visit today and discover the beauty and wonder of these magnificent structures for yourself.