Oak Island Lighthouse
Iconic concrete lighthouse with unique bands, offering a challenging climb to panoramic coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Oak Island Lighthouse
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic concrete lighthouse with unique bands, offering a challenging climb to panoramic coastal views.
"The views from the top make the challenging climb absolutely worth it!"
Book Lighthouse Tours Early
Tours to the top are popular and fill up fast! Book online in advance. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing 131 steps! Athletic shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oak Island Lighthouse Ascent
Top of the lighthouse
Conquer the 131 steps for panoramic views of the coast and ocean. A truly unforgettable experience!
Unique Concrete Construction
Exterior of the lighthouse
Admire the distinctive black, white, and gray bands of this modern concrete lighthouse, built in 1958.
Coastal Views from the Base
Grounds surrounding the lighthouse
Enjoy the sea breeze and picturesque scenery from the base of this iconic North Carolina landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb to the Top: Booking Your Ascent
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Lighthouse Tours Early
Tours to the top are popular and fill up fast! Book online in advance. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing 131 steps! Athletic shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Conditions
Tours can be canceled due to weather. Stay updated on forecasts. :cloudwithrain_over:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the climb and exploration. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Lighthouse Tours Early
Tours to the top are popular and fill up fast! Book online in advance. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing 131 steps! Athletic shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Conditions
Tours can be canceled due to weather. Stay updated on forecasts. :cloudwithrain_over:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the climb and exploration. :water_wave:
Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for stunning coastal panoramas! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oak Island Lighthouse for its unique architecture and the exhilarating climb to the top, offering unparalleled coastal views. The surrounding area is lauded for its relaxing atmosphere, easy beach access, and convenient proximity to dining and activities, making it a highly recommended destination for a memorable beach getaway.
"Our stay has been so relaxing, fun and enjoyable. Easy access to the beach and just a short walk from activities and restaurants. The room was beautiful and neatly organized, very clean! I would stay here again and recommend to anyone wanting to visit Kure Beach. You will not be disappointed! I included two photos taken from the board walk in front of The Lighthouse. (Photos by Stacy Phillips)"
Stacy Phillips
"WOW! We stayed at the Lighthouse last minute this past weekend and the entire stay was luxury and top notch. We booked our stay the day of and Joshua was so easy to work with. He made the registration process extremely easy and there is something nice about being able to go right to your room without having to wait or check in.
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It was just my wife and I, and we ended up in a double queen on the second floor. Its hard to describe how nice everything felt walking in, because it was more of a feeling. The onsite parking made it easy to pull up and unload, and we ended up walking everywhere after that. We went to Freddie's for dinner and then ended up going to the pier for some popcorn and ice cream. When we got back in the evening, we talked to another family that was getting married the next day in the common area with fire pit. After that, we sat on the front porch right on the ocean and talked for hours.
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The next day, we woke up to the sunrise (see pic). The bed was so comfortable, we never even had to get out of bed to watch the sun come up over the ocean. We spent a few hours on the front porch again watching the sun come up and the town come to life over a cup of coffee.
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Even though there was 9 rooms and they were full, it almost felt as if we had the place to ourself. Such an amazing short trip and we will for sure have to make another.
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Pros:
-Registration/check in/check out really easy
-Rooms smelled great
-Included waters, coffees, and snacks
-Beds are luxury, pillows were perfect
-Very nice rain shower in the bathroom
-Towels were soft
-Included a sound machine which was a nice touch!
-Climate controlled to your liking
-Cool common area
-Amenities room with snacks, water, coffee, ice, etc.
-Outside shower/rinse off station.
-Walk to the beach, to dinner, to the arcade, etc. You could literally park your car at the Lighthouse and not have to drive the entire week
-VIEWS
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Cons:
-None, thanks for an amazing trip!"
Edmund Kennedy
"My family’s favorite place to stay when we visit the beach! What a beautiful property. Gorgeous, clean, comfortable rooms and an amazing view! Easy parking and beach access, close to everything. We also love the little goodies they leave as well. I always look forward to our stay here."
Crystal Rucker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oak Island Lighthouse is located in Oak Island, North Carolina. It's accessible by car, and GPS will guide you to the general area. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during peak season. Many visitors find it convenient to park and then walk to the lighthouse and surrounding attractions.
Public transportation options directly to the lighthouse are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for a ride-sharing service. The area is quite walkable once you're there, with many accommodations and restaurants within easy reach.
Walking is highly recommended! The lighthouse is close to the beach, piers, and local eateries. You can park your car and explore on foot for the entire duration of your visit.
The closest major airport is Wilmington International Airport (ILM), which is about a 45-minute to an hour's drive from Oak Island. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is another option, about an hour and a half away.
Yes, biking is a great way to get around Oak Island. There are bike paths and it's a pleasant ride to the lighthouse from many parts of the island. Remember to secure your bike properly. :bicycle:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While viewing the lighthouse from the outside is free, climbing to the top requires a tour. Tour fees are typically modest, but it's essential to check the official Oak Island Lighthouse website for current pricing and to book your tickets in advance.
Absolutely! Tours to the top of the Oak Island Lighthouse are very popular and have limited capacity. Booking your tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Tour hours vary seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. It's crucial to visit the official Oak Island Lighthouse website for the most up-to-date schedule and to see when tours are available.
Climbing the lighthouse involves ascending 131 steps via ship ladders, which is physically demanding. There are age restrictions, typically requiring climbers to be at least 16 years old and able to manage the climb independently. Check the official site for exact requirements.
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the climb (131 steps via ship ladders), the interior tour is not accessible for individuals with mobility issues. However, you can still enjoy the exterior views and the surrounding grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb involves ascending 131 steps using ship ladders, which is a strenuous workout. It's a unique experience, as it's the only lighthouse on the East Coast with this type of ladder system instead of a spiral staircase.
From the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the coastline of Oak Island, and the surrounding Brunswick Islands. It's a fantastic photo opportunity.
Yes, the lighthouse is situated in a vibrant beach town. You're a short walk from the beach, piers for fishing or strolling, and various shops and restaurants.
Absolutely! The lighthouse itself is incredibly photogenic, and the views from the top are spectacular. Many visitors capture stunning images of the structure and the coastal landscape. 
Even if you don't climb, you can explore the grounds, enjoy the beach access nearby, and take in the impressive architecture of the lighthouse from the outside. The surrounding area offers plenty of beach activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Oak Island has a variety of dining options within walking distance or a short drive from the lighthouse. You can find seafood restaurants, casual eateries, and ice cream shops.
Seafood is a local specialty, with many restaurants offering fresh catches. You'll also find classic beach town fare like burgers, pizza, and fried chicken.
While there aren't specific picnic areas right at the lighthouse base, you can certainly bring your own food to enjoy on the beach nearby. Remember to clean up after yourself. :beachwithumbrella:
Yes, you'll find several cafes and coffee shops on Oak Island, perfect for grabbing a morning coffee or a midday pick-me-up before or after visiting the lighthouse.
Many visitors rave about local spots for seafood and casual dining. Exploring the main drag near the piers will give you plenty of options. Check recent reviews for the most current recommendations.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for stunning photos of the lighthouse and coastline. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great opportunities for capturing the lighthouse's unique bands.
Experiment with different angles! From the beach, you can capture its full height. Close-ups of the concrete bands are also striking. Drone photography offers a unique perspective, showcasing its location.
Generally, photography from the exterior is allowed and encouraged. If you take a tour to the top, there may be specific guidelines for photos inside or at the summit. Always be respectful of others.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire lighthouse and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant coastal shots. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions like sunrise/sunset. :camerawithflash:
Searching for 'Oak Island Lighthouse photos' on Google Images or platforms like Instagram will yield many beautiful examples. User-generated content often showcases the best perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the lighthouse, consider visiting the nearby Oak Island Pier for fishing or simply enjoying the ocean views. The town also has arcades and mini-golf, providing plenty of entertainment options for children. The relaxed pace of Oak Island makes it easy for families to enjoy a stress-free vacation.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
+1Many of the accommodations, like The Lighthouse at Kure Beach (mentioned in reviews), offer a luxurious and private feel, even when full, making it ideal for couples seeking a relaxing getaway. Enjoying coffee on the porch while watching the sunrise or exploring the local dining scene are perfect ways to spend your time.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the sunrise and sunset over the Atlantic, casting a warm glow on the lighthouse. The surrounding coastal scenery, including the piers and beaches, also provides ample photographic opportunities. Consider visiting during different weather conditions for unique shots, like storms rolling in.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Climb: An Unforgettable Challenge
Despite the challenge, the reward is immense. Reaching the lantern room offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the expansive coastline of Oak Island, and the surrounding Brunswick Islands. It's an experience that many visitors describe as a highlight of their trip, providing a unique perspective of the coastal landscape. Remember to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for safety during the climb.
+1Architectural Uniqueness and History
Standing at 153 feet tall (169 feet above the water), it was the last lighthouse to be built in North Carolina. Its design was intended to be more efficient and easier to maintain than older masonry lighthouses. The lighthouse's modern approach to design and construction sets it apart from many of its historic counterparts, making it a significant landmark in the history of American lighthouses.
+1Exploring Oak Island: Beyond the Lighthouse
Beyond the beach, Oak Island boasts a charming downtown area with a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You can find everything from casual seafood shacks to souvenir shops. Many accommodations are within walking distance of the lighthouse and the main attractions, allowing visitors to park their cars and explore the island on foot. The island's relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a family vacation or a peaceful getaway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit