The 5 Must-See Lighthouses Across the OBX

Follow the light across the Outer Banks with five iconic lighthouses, each offering panoramic views, coastal history, and photo-worthy backdrops for your next OBX getaway.

Along with the wild horses of Corolla, the lighthouses along the Outer Banks are among the most iconic sights in this must-visit North Carolina destination. Seeing them up close and exploring their surroundings will surely be one of the highlights of your trip.

Let's kick things off with a quick look:

1. Bodie Island Lighthouse: Classic black-and-white stripes and a climb worth every step.
2. Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse: Small, charming, and right on the Manteo waterfront for easy strolling.
3. Currituck Beach Lighthouse: Red-brick beauty with 220 steps and sweeping Corolla views.
4. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Towering spiral icon and symbol of OBX maritime heritage.
5. Ocracoke Lighthouse: Oldest operating lighthouse in NC, nestled in a peaceful harbor village.

Dreaming of an OBX getaway? Village Realty has been matching beach lovers with the perfect vacation homes for over 25 years. We offer an extensive selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals tailored to meet every need and desire. From stunning oceanfront properties and cozy condos to pet-friendly and newly listed rentals, our diverse portfolio ensures you find the perfect home away from home.

Craving more insider tips? As experts in everything OBX, our destination blog is loaded with fishing tips, the best outdoor adventures, can't-miss foodie finds, and more.

In this blog post, I'll be your guide to the five Outer Banks lighthouses you should add to your itinerary so you can see these incredible structures up close and soak in their scenic surroundings.

Ready?Let's explore!

Northern OBX Lighthouses

1. Bodie Island Lighthouse

A striking black-and-white beacon rising above peaceful marshlands.

Located in Nags Head, the Bodie Island Lighthouse is a striking black-and-white beacon rising above peaceful marshlands. The surrounding landscape is ideal for nature walks and birdwatching, while the climb to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the Atlantic and Roanoke Sound. The visitor center nearby offers a glimpse into the lighthouse's long-standing role in keeping sailors safe along the treacherous OBX coast.

Highlights

• 156-foot climb with panoramic coastal views.
• Visitor center with local maritime history displays.
• Scenic boardwalks through wetlands filled with wildlife.
• Ideal spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

2. Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

A replica of the original 19th-century structure that once guided sailors through the Croatan Sound.

Perched at the end of a wooden pier on the Manteo waterfront, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse may be small, but it's full of character. This replica of the original 19th-century structure once guided sailors through the Croatan Sound. It's one of the most accessible lighthouses in the OBX, perfect for a short visit paired with a stroll around downtown Manteo.

Highlights

• Compact design with classic coastal charm.
• Great waterfront location in Manteo's historic district.
• Easy access to shops, cafes, and the boardwalk.
• Peaceful spot for watching boats and sunsets over the sound.

3. CURRITUCK BEACH LIGHTHOUSE

A working lighthouse and one of the few you can still climb.

Located in Corolla, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse stands out with its unpainted red brick exterior and striking height. Built in 1875, it remains a working lighthouse and one of the few you can still climb. The panoramic views at the top stretch across the Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the quaint village of Corolla.

Highlights

• 220-step climb with incredible 360-degree views.
• Beautifully preserved Victorian-era brickwork.
• Located within Corolla's Historic Park, near Whalehead Mansion.
• Seasonal exhibits about OBX maritime life.

4. CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE

A symbol of the Outer Banks' resilience and maritime legacy.

One of the tallest and most famous lighthouses in America, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is an OBX icon. Its black-and-white spiral design has guided ships around the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" for over a century. Moved inland in 1999 to protect it from erosion, it remains a symbol of the Outer Banks' resilience and maritime legacy.

Highlights

• Towering 198-foot structure with 257 steps to the top.
• Distinct spiral pattern recognized worldwide.
• Visitor exhibits detailing the lighthouse's move and history.
• Located within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, ideal for picnics and beach walks.

5. Ocracoke Lighthouse

The oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina.

Built in 1823, the Ocracoke Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina and one of the most charming in the OBX. Its whitewashed tower and quiet setting reflect the relaxed pace of Ocracoke Village. While climbing isn't allowed, it's still worth visiting for photos and a peaceful moment by the harbor.

Highlights

• North Carolina's oldest still-active lighthouse.
• A distinct white, conical structure perfect for photography.
• Short walk from Ocracoke Village shops and cafes.
• Serene setting surrounded by maritime history and coastal beauty.

Time, Travel Route, AND tIPS

Start your day early and plan to see the northernmost lighthouses first, then travel down Hatteras Island on another day to explore the southern ones. This pacing lets you enjoy the scenery, stop at local spots, and explore each area without feeling rushed. Choose a calm, low-wind day for the best views and smooth climbs.

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are usually open daily for climbing from mid-March through December. Check height requirements before you go; small children (age three and under) must be secured in a carrier. Tickets for Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras should be purchased in advance to avoid waiting in line.

Extra Tips for Exploring the OBX Lighthouses

• Start early. The best light for photos (and smallest crowds) comes in the morning.
  
  
• Check seasonal hours. Some lighthouses close for winter or operate with reduced hours, especially after December.
  
  
• Bring cash or buy tickets online. Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras often require advance ticket purchases.
  
  
• Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be climbing hundreds of steps, and the interiors can get warm.
  
  
• Plan for ferries. If you're heading to Ocracoke, account for the ferry schedule; it's part of the fun but takes extra time.
  
  
• Stay hydrated. Water isn't always available near every lighthouse, especially the more remote ones.
  
  
• Combine stops with local eats. Grab lunch in Manteo or Corolla to break up your route.
  
  
• Check for special tours. Some lighthouses offer full moon or evening climbs during select dates.
  
  
• Watch for wildlife. The surrounding wetlands and dunes are home to birds, deer, and other local critters worth spotting.

Experience the best of the Outer Banks

The secret to a great OBX getaway? Finding the perfect place to stay. With Village Realty OBX, you'll have your pick of vacation rentals that keep you close to the beach, the fun, and everything in between.

Our rentals range from oceanfront homes with stunning views to cozy cottages perfect for families or couples. Many properties include amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens, ensuring your stay is as relaxing as it is adventurous.

Booking with Village Realty means you can focus on enjoying everything this North Carolina treasure has to offer while resting easy in a home tailored to your needs. Start your journey by choosing the perfect rental for your outdoor getaway today!