Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Points of Interest

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

America's tallest brick lighthouse, moved inland in 1999 and still standing watch over Hatteras Island

(6,365)
Buxton, NC

About

The black-and-white spiral stripes of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are the most recognizable sight on Hatteras Island. At just over 198 feet, it's the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States, built to warn ships away from the shoals off Buxton that gave this stretch of ocean its old nickname, the Graveyard of the Atlantic. In 1999, the National Park Service relocated the entire structure nearly half a mile inland, one of the largest building-move engineering projects ever undertaken in the US, done to keep the lighthouse ahead of an eroding shoreline.

Climbing is closed right now

A cast-iron bracket issue found during restoration work has closed the lighthouse to climbing, with the closure expected to last through at least the end of 2026. If reaching the top was the plan, check the NPS site linked below before you go — right now that isn't possible.

What's still open

The grounds, the double keepers' quarters, and the small on-site exhibits remain open and worth the stop even without the climb. The lighthouse sits within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the first national seashore established in the US, along NC-12 between Avon and Hatteras village.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse?

No, the climb is currently closed. A cast-iron bracket issue found during restoration work shut down climbing, and the closure is expected to last through at least the end of 2026, so check the official National Park Service (NPS) site before you visit if climbing was part of your plan.

Is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse still worth visiting while the climb is closed?

Yes. The grounds, the double keepers' quarters, and the small on-site exhibits all remain open, and the lighthouse's black-and-white spiral stripes are worth seeing up close even without climbing to the top.

Where is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and how do you get there?

The lighthouse sits along NC-12 on Hatteras Island, between Avon and Hatteras village, inside Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

What are the hours and admission fees for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse?

Hours and admission fees vary seasonally, so check the official National Park Service Cape Hatteras Lighthouse page for current details before you go.

Can hurricanes or storms affect a visit to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse?

Yes. The lighthouse is reached via NC-12, the only road through Hatteras Island, which can close briefly after storms due to ocean overwash, so it's worth checking road conditions if you're visiting during hurricane season, roughly June through November.

Why was the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse moved?

In 1999, the National Park Service relocated the entire lighthouse nearly half a mile inland to keep it ahead of an eroding shoreline, in one of the largest building-move engineering projects ever undertaken in the US.

Reviews (6,365)

See all on Google
4.8

6,365 reviews

Write a review
Kate McCracken
Kate McCracken

2 months ago

When we came, the lighthouse was being refurbished, so we didn't see the well known black and white lighthouse, but it was very interesting learning about the refurbishment project. The small museum is very informative too. There is a nice walkway with seats, a covered seating area that looks over the lighthouse, and access to a restroom by the shop. There is also a nice walking path to go and see where the lighthouse used to be before it was moved in the 90s. Definitely need to go back once the scaffolding is down.

Norapat Prapassorn

A must see in Outer Banks. You can climb to the top of the tower for $10. But check the weather and staff first before buying your ticket, because if it’s hot and sunny, the temperature inside the lighthouse could reach over 100F — forcing the staffs to cancel admission. Off to the side of the lighthouse, there’s a walking path which will take you to overlook over the marshland and water. It’s pretty and you can see many herons and other birds there.

Becky
Becky

a month ago

Lighthouse still wrapped in scaffolding but there is a museum and store at the lighthouse site. Wonderful place to visit. However, plan wisely, if its been raining anywhere near Hattaras be aware that Hwy 12 heading into the outer Banks will be flooded in certain areas of the highway. Hwy is still passable if you drive carefully.

Gordon Thompson
Gordon Thompson

3 months ago

I only gave this 3 stars because of the total restoration. I was back in the OBX for the first time in 40 years and really wanted to see the lighthouse since it had been moved. The facilities around were clean but everything was under construction and most of it was closed off. It's probably my fault for not doing enough research but I wish I would've known the magnitude of the project. Now I have a reason to come back and give it a better review!

Sachin
Sachin

a month ago

Although the lighthouse was undergoing renovations and inaccessible, the adjacent museum provided a delightful experience. Its exhibits offered insightful information and engaging displays. 🏛️🌟 A worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts. 🖼️💡

Powered by Google