Ocracoke Lighthouse

Standing 75ft tall, Ocracoke Light is the oldest operating light station in North Carolina and the second oldest lighthouse still standing in NC. Fully automated, the lighthouse no longer needs a lightkeeper to tend to its daily needs. The US Coast Guard now oversees the operation of the light.

8 / 10
71
ratings
  • Phone

    (252) 473-2111

  • Website

    nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/ols.htm

  • Facebook

    165487460155590

  • Type

    Lighthouse

Address

Lighthouse Rd. Ocracoke , NC 27960 United States

Comments / 15


Keywords:

scenic views historic sites biking lighthouses island
Michael Preston

On a cloudy day, if you stand at the base of the lighthouse and look upwards, the movement of the clouds creates the illusion that the lighthouse is falling toward you.

A R

While you can't climb the lighthouse this is still worth visiting. Keep watch on social media, they occasionally open the lighthouse to allow visitors to look up to the top from the first level.

Girish Prabhu

Beautiful, scenic place .. but were not allowed to go inside the lighthouse . Worth a trip for the free Ferry ride and the drive though!

Jed Record

This is walkable from anywhere on this side of the island . Enjoy the walk!

Chad Hembree

The original lens is still being used, but is now powered by a 1000 watt electric light.

Chris King

Parking is limited (maybe four spots), as is the room on the walkway. A definite place to stop while on the Outer Banks , but plan accordingly.

Brenton Marcom

A quaint, beautiful little spot. A great photo op!

Suzanne N

No climbing the lighthouse allowed. It is closed to the public. But there is a wooden boardwalk leading to the base.

Chad Hembree

Not as impressive or historic as Cape Hatteras, but worth the vist if you find yourself on the island .

Jon O.

second oldest operational lighthouse is the US maintained by the USCG and NPS

Chad Hembree

A nice walk with some beautiful views .

Aprille Metcalf

Nifty quick side trip.

Tara Smith

If you can rent a bike or a golf cart, you will be able to maneuver better with parking .

Donna

Pretty lighthouse .

Katie Eschbacher

No access up the lighthouse . Views are limited to photos in a binder at the base.

Similar places nearby :

8.0
Beach
Lifeguard Beach

Quiet, beautiful and with a permit you can drive up on the beach! Best beach in the Carolinas - Brandi Bruce

8.6
Other Outdoors
Ocracoke Island

The long lost home of Blackbeard! While strolling the island in search of treasure, leave no stone unturned. Watch out around every corner because edward teach's gang is near! - C.K. Evans

7.6
American
Howard's Pub & Raw Bar

Huge beer menu both on tap and bottles. Awesome crab & shrimp dip. - Jason Rollins

6.5
Gift Store
Pirate's Chest

This place is absolutely packed with tourist trinkets. Any Ocracoke item you could possibly want is available here! - Brenton Marcom

6.5
Grocery Store
The Variety Store

They have all kind of brands!! Whatever you need!! - Sara McCormick