Cape Hatteras Lighthouse - Image 1
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Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

4.8
·6k reviews·Buxton, United States

Iconic, tallest brick lighthouse in the US, famous for its black and white stripes and incredible 1999 relocation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cape Hatteras Lighthouse - Image 1

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic, tallest brick lighthouse in the US, famous for its black and white stripes and incredible 1999 relocation.

4.8
(6k reviews)

"A truly fascinating piece of engineering and history, a must-see on the Outer Banks!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Restoration Status First

Climbing access can be limited due to ongoing repairs. Always verify before your visit! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing many stairs to reach the top! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Tower

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Tower

Buxton, NC

Climb to the top of the tallest brick lighthouse in the US for breathtaking panoramic views of the Outer Banks.

Instagram
The Great Lighthouse Move

The Great Lighthouse Move

Original site and current site

Discover the incredible engineering feat of moving this massive structure nearly half a mile inland to save it from erosion.

TikTokInstagram
Keeper's Quarters and Museum

Keeper's Quarters and Museum

Base of the lighthouse

Explore the historic keeper's quarters and a museum detailing the lighthouse's rich history and the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Check Restoration Status Before You Go

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is often undergoing restoration, which can affect climbing access. Always check the official NPS website or call ahead to confirm if the tower is open for climbing before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Embrace the History and Engineering Marvel

Beyond its iconic stripes, the lighthouse boasts a fascinating history, including its incredible 1999 relocation. Learn about its engineering feat and the stories of keepers and shipwrecks that shaped its past. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures, sunset views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

They Moved the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Left History Buried In 1999, engineers moved the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in North Carolina nearly half a mile to save it from the ocean. But at its old site, they left the foundations of earlier lighthouses, the remains of keeper’s homes, and artifacts from 200 years of shipwrecks. The past is still buried in the sand. #carolina #hiddenhistory #histor...
@buried.carolina
6.4K likes • 113.5K views

Check Restoration Status First

Climbing access can be limited due to ongoing repairs. Always verify before your visit! Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing many stairs to reach the top! :athletic_shoe:

Its definitely a prime unit for a reason 😎 link in bio 💙 #booknow #obx #outerbanks #hatterasisland #lighthouseview #lighthouseviewoceanfrontlodging #capehatteras #capehatterasnationalseashore #capehatteraslighthouse #foryou #trending #fyp #fypシ゚viral #foryoupage #vacationmode #beach #beachvibes #beachhouse #trendingnow #travel #traveltok
@lighthouseviewnc
3.9K likes • 104.6K views
It’s weird seeing the Cape Hatteras lighthouse her famous stripes but I can only my imagine how good it will look with a new paint job. Can’t wait to photograph it once the project is complete. #wessnyderphotography #capehatteraslighthouse
wessnyderphotography
567 likes • 8.1K views

Visit the Gift Shop & Museum

Great place to learn history and grab souvenirs. Reddit :gift:

Capture the Iconic Stripes

The black and white spiral is instantly recognizable. Instagram :camerawithflash:

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is built on large springs, so when strong winds blow, the whole structure sways slightly back and forth. #obxnc #outerbanks #outerbanksmemes #offseason #tourist #tourism #obxlocal #obxliving #obxlife #killdevilhills #kittyhawk #nagshead #corollanc #ducknc #buxtonnc #rodanthe #capehatteras #hatterasisland #manteo #wanchese #beachfun #fishing #hurricane#ocracoke #lightho...
alexlexobx1
488 likes • 40.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Restoration Status First

Climbing access can be limited due to ongoing repairs. Always verify before your visit! Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing many stairs to reach the top! :athletic_shoe:

Visit the Gift Shop & Museum

Great place to learn history and grab souvenirs. Reddit :gift:

Capture the Iconic Stripes

The black and white spiral is instantly recognizable. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Consider the OBX Ferry

Combine your lighthouse visit with a trip to Ocracoke Island. Instagram :ferry:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse as a must-see landmark, marveling at its height and the incredible engineering feat of its relocation. The knowledgeable staff and the historical exhibits are often highlighted as positive aspects. However, potential visitors should be aware that the lighthouse is frequently undergoing restoration, which can lead to temporary closures for climbing, causing disappointment for some. Reddit

"The lighthouse is the tallest in the US. Unfortunately we couldn’t climb due to it undergoing restoration, however this was the first time in a few decades the park ranger said the lighthouse was completely unpainted. It’s also pretty interesting knowing the history of how they moved the lighthouse 2900ft in 23 days. Definitely a go to. Can’t wait until it opens back up to climb!"

Brittney Gdovin

"Good lord, what a job they are doing to refurbish the light house.
I'm glad to see it being kept up. Sorry we missed really seeing it all done. Great gift shop and nice restroom. I am looking forward to coming back and seeing the restoration completed."

Nancy Chesser

"Unfortunately the lighthouse is under repairs. It was supposed to complete in fall of 2025, but they found additional structural issues at the top & awaiting additional funding TBD. The gift store/visitor center & museum are open though."

Hung Do

What People Like

Tallest lighthouse in US
Incredible relocation history
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Restoration closures
Lack of AC in museum house

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is located in Buxton, North Carolina, on Hatteras Island. You can reach it by driving along NC-12. If you're coming from the mainland, you might take a ferry to Ocracoke Island and then drive north on NC-12. Parking is available near the lighthouse. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is parking available near the lighthouse and visitor center. During peak season, it can fill up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended. Reddit

Public transportation options are very limited on Hatteras Island. Most visitors arrive by car. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area, but be aware of potential limitations. TikTok

The visitor center and gift shop are generally accessible. However, climbing the lighthouse tower itself involves many stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. Reddit

Many visitors find that having a car is essential for exploring Hatteras Island and the surrounding Outer Banks. This allows you to easily visit the lighthouse, beaches, and other attractions at your own pace. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds and the visitor center is typically free. However, there is a fee to climb the lighthouse tower when it is open for climbing. Check the official NPS website for current ticket prices and availability. Reddit

The grounds are usually accessible year-round during daylight hours. The visitor center and gift shop have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. The lighthouse tower's climbing hours are dependent on restoration status and weather. Reddit

Ticket prices for climbing the lighthouse vary. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Reddit

Advance ticket purchases may be available, especially during peak season. It's highly recommended to check the official NPS website for ticketing options and to book in advance if possible to secure your spot. Reddit

If the lighthouse tower is closed for restoration, you can still visit the grounds, gift shop, and museum. The history of the lighthouse and its relocation is still fascinating to learn about. TikTokReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse has approximately 257 steps to reach the top. Be prepared for a strenuous climb! TikTok

You can explore the historic keeper's quarters, learn about maritime history in the museum, and, when open, climb the tower for incredible views. The iconic black and white stripes are a sight in themselves. InstagramReddit

Interestingly, the lighthouse is built on large springs, allowing it to sway slightly in strong winds, which helps absorb the force. Instagram

Originally built in 1803 and rebuilt in 1870, the lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the US. It was famously moved inland in 1999 to save it from coastal erosion. TikTokInstagram+1

While formal guided tours might be limited, park rangers and staff, like Roxanne mentioned in a review, are often very knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the lighthouse's lens and history. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for capturing the lighthouse. The Milky Way can also be a stunning backdrop on clear nights. TikTokInstagram

The beach area around the lighthouse provides excellent vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture its height and iconic stripes. Instagram

Yes, even during restoration, the lighthouse's unique structure and stripes are photogenic. Some photographers even find the scaffolding adds an interesting element. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire lighthouse and its surroundings. A tripod is essential for low-light photography, especially for astrophotography. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted within National Park Service areas, including around lighthouses, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check NPS regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse offers an exciting adventure for families. Climbing the tower, while a workout, is a memorable experience for older children who can handle the stairs. The museum at the base provides engaging exhibits about maritime history and the lighthouse's past, making it educational and fun. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months. The surrounding beach areas are great for sandcastle building and exploring tide pools. Keep an eye on younger children near the water and be aware of the sun's intensity. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse grounds and visitor center is free, making it an accessible attraction. While climbing the tower has a fee, it's generally considered a worthwhile expense for the experience and views. Reddit

Pack your own picnic lunches and snacks to save money on dining out. Many of the Outer Banks' best attractions, like the beaches and scenic drives along NC-12, are free to enjoy. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for potentially lower accommodation rates. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a dream for photographers. Its iconic black and white stripes, towering height, and coastal setting provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Capture it at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, or try your hand at astrophotography with the Milky Way as a backdrop. TikTokInstagram

Even during restoration, the lighthouse offers unique photographic perspectives. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to showcase its grandeur. Don't forget to explore the surrounding natural beauty of the Outer Banks for diverse content. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Remarkable Relocation of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

One of the most astonishing aspects of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is its 1999 relocation. Faced with the relentless erosion of the coastline, engineers undertook a monumental task to move the 4,950-ton structure 2,900 feet inland. This complex operation, which took 23 days, involved lifting the lighthouse and moving it on a system of steel rails and hydraulic jacks. It stands as a testament to modern engineering and a commitment to preserving historical landmarks. TikTokInstagram+1

This move was not the first time the lighthouse had been repositioned. The original structure, built in 1803, was replaced by the current tower in 1870, and that tower itself was moved 40 feet inland in 1935. The 1999 move, however, was on an unprecedented scale, saving the iconic beacon from succumbing to the Atlantic Ocean. TikTok

Visitors can learn more about this incredible feat at the base of the lighthouse, where exhibits detail the engineering challenges and the historical context of the move. It's a story that truly highlights the dedication to preserving the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks. Reddit

Understanding the Iconic Stripes

The distinctive black and white spiral pattern of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it served a crucial navigational purpose. These bold stripes were added in 1873, replacing the original white exterior. The high contrast pattern made the lighthouse more visible to ships, especially during daylight hours and in foggy conditions, helping them avoid the treacherous shoals off the coast. Instagram+1

The lighthouse has undergone several paint schemes throughout its history, but the black and white spiral has become its most recognizable feature. Even when undergoing restoration and temporarily unpainted, its form remains iconic. TikTokInstagram

This visual cue was vital for sailors navigating the 'Graveyard of the Atlantic,' a notorious stretch of coastline known for its numerous shipwrecks. The lighthouse's light, combined with its distinctive markings, provided a critical warning and guide for maritime traffic. Instagram

Navigating the Outer Banks: Beyond the Lighthouse

While the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a primary draw, the surrounding Outer Banks offer a wealth of experiences. Cape Hatteras National Seashore itself is a treasure trove of natural beauty and history. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from the dunes of Jockey's Ridge State Park (though not directly at Hatteras, it's a popular OBX spot) to the wildlife haven of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Instagram

For those interested in maritime history, a ferry trip to Ocracoke Island provides a glimpse into a more remote and historic part of the Outer Banks, complete with its own charming lighthouse. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum offers deeper insights into the region's shipwrecks and naval history. Instagram

Many visitors also enjoy the simple pleasures of the Outer Banks: relaxing on the beaches, fishing from piers, or exploring charming coastal towns. The scenic NC-12 highway itself is a journey, offering stunning ocean views and a true sense of coastal escape. TikTokInstagram

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