Cape Lookout Lighthouse
A landmark lighthouse with a black-and-white diamond pattern on Cape Lookout National Seashore. Take a ferry to the island, then climb the tower for views of the undeveloped coastline.
Cape Lookout National Seashore protects about 90 km of undeveloped barrier islands. The lighthouse, built in 1859 and about 50 metres tall, has a distinctive black-and-white diamond pattern that is a symbol of the North Carolina coast. Take an authorized ferry from Harkers Island or Beaufort for about 30 to 45 minutes to the lighthouse area. In summer, you can climb the 207 steps (ticket required). The surrounding beaches are good for shell collecting, swimming and fishing. There are no shops on the island, so bring your own drinking water and sun protection. Round-trip ferry fare is about USD 40.
Opening hours
Ferry seasonal; tower climb about May–Sep
Nearby sights
- Shackleford Banks
- Old Burying Ground
- Beaufort Historic District
- North Carolina Maritime Museum at Beaufort
- Rachel Carson Reserve
- Fort Macon State Park
- North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
- Theodore Roosevelt State Natural Area