Marc Basnight Bridge
A modern engineering marvel offering breathtaking ocean vistas as it connects the northern Outer Banks to Hatteras Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour magic
Marc Basnight Bridge
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern engineering marvel offering breathtaking ocean vistas as it connects the northern Outer Banks to Hatteras Island.
"It was like driving straight into heaven."
🚗 Drive Slowly & Enjoy
Take your time to appreciate the stunning ocean views. It's a beautiful drive!
🌬️ Watch for Wind
High winds can occur. Be cautious, especially if towing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ocean Views
Entire length of the bridge
Experience stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and Oregon Inlet as you cross.
Oregon Inlet Crossing
Over Oregon Inlet
A crucial and scenic passage over the dynamic Oregon Inlet, connecting key OBX areas.
Gateway to Hatteras Island
Southern end of the bridge
Marks the entry point to the charming villages of Hatteras Island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Basnight Bridge
Scenic Drive Experience
and a beautiful way to enter the southern Outer Banks. Plan for a leisurely drive to soak in the scenery.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Slowly & Enjoy
Take your time to appreciate the stunning ocean views. It's a beautiful drive!
🌬️ Watch for Wind
High winds can occur. Be cautious, especially if towing.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Pull over safely at designated spots or nearby overlooks for great photos.
📍 Pea Island Access
Explore the trails near Pea Island Life Saving Station just over the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Slowly & Enjoy
Take your time to appreciate the stunning ocean views. It's a beautiful drive!
🌬️ Watch for Wind
High winds can occur. Be cautious, especially if towing.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Pull over safely at designated spots or nearby overlooks for great photos.
📍 Pea Island Access
Explore the trails near Pea Island Life Saving Station just over the bridge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marc Basnight Bridge for its breathtaking scenic views and its role as a vital connector to Hatteras Island. The drive is often described as beautiful and a highlight of the Outer Banks experience. Some caution is advised regarding potential high winds and the need for safe driving practices.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marc Basnight Bridge is located on NC Highway 12, connecting Pea Island to the northern Outer Banks. It's the primary route to access Hatteras Island from the north.
The bridge is generally open, but like all Outer Banks routes, it can be subject to closures due to severe weather, especially hurricanes. Always check local traffic advisories before traveling.
The speed limit is typically posted and enforced. Drivers are encouraged to adhere to it for safety, especially given the potential for wind and traffic.
Stopping on the bridge itself is generally not permitted for safety reasons. However, there are often pull-offs or nearby areas where you can safely stop to take photos.
Public transportation on the Outer Banks primarily relies on private vehicles. While buses may use the bridge, there isn't a dedicated public transit system that stops on the bridge itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tolls or tickets required to drive over the Marc Basnight Bridge. It is a public roadway.
The bridge is open 24/7, as it is a public highway. Access may be restricted during severe weather events.
There are no entrance fees or tolls associated with crossing the Marc Basnight Bridge.
While not explicitly designed for pedestrian or bicycle traffic, some visitors have been seen walking or biking. It's advisable to exercise extreme caution due to vehicle traffic.
While there isn't a visitor center directly on the bridge, the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is located nearby, just south of the bridge.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length offers great views, but the southern end near Pea Island and the northern end approaching the mainland provide excellent vantage points. Look for safe pull-offs.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, with golden hues casting over the water. Fog can also create unique, atmospheric shots.
Drone regulations vary. Always check FAA guidelines and local restrictions before flying a drone over the bridge or surrounding areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and bridge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant boats or wildlife.
General photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Be mindful of other travelers and do not obstruct traffic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider stopping at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge just south of the bridge for family-friendly nature walks and birdwatching. The trails are generally easy to navigate, offering a chance to stretch legs and explore the coastal environment. Remember to bring snacks and water, as amenities directly on the bridge are limited.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1For drone enthusiasts, ensure you are aware of and comply with all FAA regulations and local ordinances. When on the ground, look for safe pull-off areas to capture wide-angle shots of the bridge against the coastal backdrop. Be mindful of wind conditions, which can add a dramatic element to your photos but also pose a challenge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Basnight Bridge
+1The bridge's elevated structure allows for better water flow beneath it, reducing erosion and improving navigation for boats passing through Oregon Inlet. This engineering feat not only serves as a critical transportation artery but also stands as a testament to modern civil engineering in challenging coastal conditions. Visitors often marvel at its scale and the impressive views it offers.
+1It's important for visitors to remember that while the bridge is a marvel of engineering, it is also a working roadway. Safety should always be the top priority when driving, parking, or taking photos in the vicinity.
Experiencing the Scenic Drive
+1Travelers often recommend taking your time to enjoy the drive. The transition from the northern Outer Banks to Hatteras Island feels significant as you cross this impressive structure. It’s a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light paints the sky and water in vibrant colors.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions. While beautiful on a clear day, the bridge can also be dramatic when shrouded in fog or buffeted by winds. Always drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings.
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