Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Iconic, tallest brick lighthouse in the US, famous for its black and white stripes and incredible 1999 relocation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic, tallest brick lighthouse in the US, famous for its black and white stripes and incredible 1999 relocation.
"A truly fascinating piece of engineering and history, a must-see on the Outer Banks!"
Check Restoration Status First
Climbing access can be limited due to ongoing repairs. Always verify before your visit! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing many stairs to reach the top! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Tower
Buxton, NC
Climb to the top of the tallest brick lighthouse in the US for breathtaking panoramic views of the Outer Banks.
The Great Lighthouse Move
Original site and current site
Discover the incredible engineering feat of moving this massive structure nearly half a mile inland to save it from erosion.
Keeper's Quarters and Museum
Base of the lighthouse
Explore the historic keeper's quarters and a museum detailing the lighthouse's rich history and the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Restoration Status Before You Go
Embrace the History and Engineering Marvel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Restoration Status First
Climbing access can be limited due to ongoing repairs. Always verify before your visit! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing many stairs to reach the top! :athletic_shoe:
Visit the Gift Shop & Museum
Great place to learn history and grab souvenirs. :gift:
Capture the Iconic Stripes
The black and white spiral is instantly recognizable.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Restoration Status First
Climbing access can be limited due to ongoing repairs. Always verify before your visit! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing many stairs to reach the top! :athletic_shoe:
Visit the Gift Shop & Museum
Great place to learn history and grab souvenirs. :gift:
Capture the Iconic Stripes
The black and white spiral is instantly recognizable.
Consider the OBX Ferry
Combine your lighthouse visit with a trip to Ocracoke Island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse as a must-see landmark, marveling at its height and the incredible engineering feat of its relocation. The knowledgeable staff and the historical exhibits are often highlighted as positive aspects. However, potential visitors should be aware that the lighthouse is frequently undergoing restoration, which can lead to temporary closures for climbing, causing disappointment for some.
"The lighthouse is the tallest in the US. Unfortunately we couldn’t climb due to it undergoing restoration, however this was the first time in a few decades the park ranger said the lighthouse was completely unpainted. It’s also pretty interesting knowing the history of how they moved the lighthouse 2900ft in 23 days. Definitely a go to. Can’t wait until it opens back up to climb!"
Brittney Gdovin
"Good lord, what a job they are doing to refurbish the light house.
I'm glad to see it being kept up. Sorry we missed really seeing it all done. Great gift shop and nice restroom. I am looking forward to coming back and seeing the restoration completed."
Nancy Chesser
"Unfortunately the lighthouse is under repairs. It was supposed to complete in fall of 2025, but they found additional structural issues at the top & awaiting additional funding TBD. The gift store/visitor center & museum are open though."
Hung Do
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is located in Buxton, North Carolina, on Hatteras Island. You can reach it by driving along NC-12. If you're coming from the mainland, you might take a ferry to Ocracoke Island and then drive north on NC-12. Parking is available near the lighthouse.
Yes, there is parking available near the lighthouse and visitor center. During peak season, it can fill up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
Public transportation options are very limited on Hatteras Island. Most visitors arrive by car. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area, but be aware of potential limitations.
The visitor center and gift shop are generally accessible. However, climbing the lighthouse tower itself involves many stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
Many visitors find that having a car is essential for exploring Hatteras Island and the surrounding Outer Banks. This allows you to easily visit the lighthouse, beaches, and other attractions at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and the visitor center is typically free. However, there is a fee to climb the lighthouse tower when it is open for climbing. Check the official NPS website for current ticket prices and availability.
The grounds are usually accessible year-round during daylight hours. The visitor center and gift shop have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. The lighthouse tower's climbing hours are dependent on restoration status and weather.
Ticket prices for climbing the lighthouse vary. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Advance ticket purchases may be available, especially during peak season. It's highly recommended to check the official NPS website for ticketing options and to book in advance if possible to secure your spot.
If the lighthouse tower is closed for restoration, you can still visit the grounds, gift shop, and museum. The history of the lighthouse and its relocation is still fascinating to learn about.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse has approximately 257 steps to reach the top. Be prepared for a strenuous climb!
You can explore the historic keeper's quarters, learn about maritime history in the museum, and, when open, climb the tower for incredible views. The iconic black and white stripes are a sight in themselves.
Interestingly, the lighthouse is built on large springs, allowing it to sway slightly in strong winds, which helps absorb the force.
Originally built in 1803 and rebuilt in 1870, the lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the US. It was famously moved inland in 1999 to save it from coastal erosion.
While formal guided tours might be limited, park rangers and staff, like Roxanne mentioned in a review, are often very knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the lighthouse's lens and history.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for capturing the lighthouse. The Milky Way can also be a stunning backdrop on clear nights.
The beach area around the lighthouse provides excellent vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture its height and iconic stripes.
Yes, even during restoration, the lighthouse's unique structure and stripes are photogenic. Some photographers even find the scaffolding adds an interesting element.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire lighthouse and its surroundings. A tripod is essential for low-light photography, especially for astrophotography.
Drone usage is typically restricted within National Park Service areas, including around lighthouses, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check NPS regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months. The surrounding beach areas are great for sandcastle building and exploring tide pools. Keep an eye on younger children near the water and be aware of the sun's intensity.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic lunches and snacks to save money on dining out. Many of the Outer Banks' best attractions, like the beaches and scenic drives along NC-12, are free to enjoy. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for potentially lower accommodation rates.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Even during restoration, the lighthouse offers unique photographic perspectives. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to showcase its grandeur. Don't forget to explore the surrounding natural beauty of the Outer Banks for diverse content.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Relocation of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
+1This move was not the first time the lighthouse had been repositioned. The original structure, built in 1803, was replaced by the current tower in 1870, and that tower itself was moved 40 feet inland in 1935. The 1999 move, however, was on an unprecedented scale, saving the iconic beacon from succumbing to the Atlantic Ocean.
Visitors can learn more about this incredible feat at the base of the lighthouse, where exhibits detail the engineering challenges and the historical context of the move. It's a story that truly highlights the dedication to preserving the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks.
Understanding the Iconic Stripes
+1The lighthouse has undergone several paint schemes throughout its history, but the black and white spiral has become its most recognizable feature. Even when undergoing restoration and temporarily unpainted, its form remains iconic.
This visual cue was vital for sailors navigating the 'Graveyard of the Atlantic,' a notorious stretch of coastline known for its numerous shipwrecks. The lighthouse's light, combined with its distinctive markings, provided a critical warning and guide for maritime traffic.
Navigating the Outer Banks: Beyond the Lighthouse
For those interested in maritime history, a ferry trip to Ocracoke Island provides a glimpse into a more remote and historic part of the Outer Banks, complete with its own charming lighthouse. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum offers deeper insights into the region's shipwrecks and naval history.
Many visitors also enjoy the simple pleasures of the Outer Banks: relaxing on the beaches, fishing from piers, or exploring charming coastal towns. The scenic NC-12 highway itself is a journey, offering stunning ocean views and a true sense of coastal escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit