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Guiding Lights of the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina are famous for their windswept beaches, wild landscapes, and rich maritime history. Standing tall amidst the shifting sands and crashing waves are its iconic lighthouses.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse reigns as the most iconic landmark of the Outer Banks. At 210 feet, it’s the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, famous for its distinctive black-and-white spiral pattern. Built in 1870, it was famously relocated inland in 1999 to protect it from shoreline erosion—an impressive feat of engineering.

Further north lies the Bodie Island Lighthouse, recognizable by its black-and-white horizontal stripes. Though the current tower dates from 1872, Bodie Island’s lighthouse history stretches back to the early 1800s.

Close by is the Ocracoke Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina, quietly standing since 1823. Its simple white tower contrasts beautifully with the island’s relaxed, small-town vibe.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who loves the rugged beauty of the coast, the Outer Banks lighthouses offer a glimpse into a fascinating maritime legacy that continues to shine bright today.