Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Iconic red and white striped lighthouse offering panoramic views after a 220-step climb. Explore history and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red and white striped lighthouse offering panoramic views after a 220-step climb. Explore history and enjoy the coastal scenery.
"The views at the top are worth it!! You can see the Atlantic side and the sound."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing 220 steps! Comfortable footwear is a must for the ascent and descent.
💧 Bring Water
It gets hot and humid inside, especially on warm days. Stay hydrated during your climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Climb
Lighthouse interior
Ascend 220 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the Outer Banks coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
Historic Corolla Park
Grounds surrounding the lighthouse
Explore the well-maintained grounds, learn about the lighthouse's history, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Lighthouse Museum & Gift Shop
Base of the lighthouse
Discover exhibits on the lighthouse's past and find unique souvenirs in the charming gift shop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Climb Smart, See More
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing 220 steps! Comfortable footwear is a must for the ascent and descent.
💧 Bring Water
It gets hot and humid inside, especially on warm days. Stay hydrated during your climb.
📝 Sign the Waiver
A safety waiver is required before climbing due to the lighthouse's age and structure.
🕰️ Check Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. Confirm opening times before your visit to plan accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be climbing 220 steps! Comfortable footwear is a must for the ascent and descent.
💧 Bring Water
It gets hot and humid inside, especially on warm days. Stay hydrated during your climb.
📝 Sign the Waiver
A safety waiver is required before climbing due to the lighthouse's age and structure.
🕰️ Check Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. Confirm opening times before your visit to plan accordingly.
📸 Capture the View
The panoramic views from the top are incredible! Don't forget your camera.
📚 Collect Novelty Stamps
If you're a collector, grab a passport book and get your stamp here!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Currituck Beach Lighthouse for its stunning views and historical significance. The climb, though challenging, is considered well worth the effort, with many highlighting the rewarding panoramas from the top. Some note the heat inside and the cost, but overall, it's a highly recommended attraction.
"Went this past Sunday with my husband and a friend of ours because we’d never been before. Came early in the morning driving from Chesapeake and got there a little after they opened for the day and wasn’t as busy yet. Very beautiful historical lighthouse ❤️ The lady we met who we paid to enter the lighthouse was really friendly and knowledgeable. As a heads up, you do have to sign a waiver before you can climb up, it’s a safety thing considering how old the lighthouse is. Please be aware that on hot/humid days it can get REALLY hot inside on your way up (they can’t really open the windows for preservation reasons). Pace yourself, bring some water to sip on, and take breaks on the levels with fans. The views at the top are worth it!! You can see the Atlantic side and the sound. Plus the cool ocean breeze feels nice after the long climb up :) Be careful going down and wait on the landings to let others pass. All in all glad we stopped to check it out, need to go see the other lighthouses next trip!"
Kara Harlan
"Absolutely beautiful lighthouse! The climb up wasn’t bad for me or my 4 year old. Your child does have to be 4years and older to climb the lighthouse and you cannot carry your kid up or down. I believe it was $12 to climb the lighthouse. It was a fun and exciting experience! Highly recommend!!"
Courtney Ogle-Brown
"Amazing grounds. Well maintained. My daughter and I climbed the 220 step lighthouse. At each landing there are fun facts about the history of the lighthouse. The woman accepting the money for the climbs really does enjoy her "job"."
Cand Cand
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse is located at 1101 Corolla Village Rd, Corolla, NC 27927. It's accessible by car, and parking is available nearby. Many visitors combine a lighthouse visit with exploring Historic Corolla Park. 
Yes, there is parking available at Historic Corolla Park, which is adjacent to the lighthouse. It's convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Biking is a popular way to explore Corolla, and there are bike paths. Some visitors have arrived by motorcycle as well, enjoying the scenic routes.
Many visitors drive to the Outer Banks. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak season or holidays.
Absolutely! Historic Corolla Park is right there, and you can also explore the 4x4 beaches, Currituck Banks Reserve, and the town of Duck for dining and sunset views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Climbing the lighthouse typically costs around $12-$13 per person. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website or inquire on-site.
The lighthouse is generally open daily for climbs, but hours can change seasonally. It's recommended to check their operating schedule before your visit, especially outside of peak summer months.
While advance tickets might not always be necessary, arriving early, especially during busy periods, is advised to avoid long queues. You can purchase tickets on-site.
Yes, children must be 4 years or older to climb the lighthouse. You cannot carry children up or down the stairs.
A safety waiver is required before climbing due to the historic nature and structure of the lighthouse. This is a standard procedure for visitor safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There are approximately 220 steps to reach the top of the lighthouse. The climb is spread across landings, allowing for breaks.
The view from the top is spectacular, offering 360-degree panoramic vistas of the Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding coastline.
The climb involves 220 steps up a spiral staircase, making it inaccessible for individuals with significant mobility challenges. The grounds and museum shop are accessible.
As you climb, you'll find landings with fun facts about the lighthouse's history. The museum shop at the base offers exhibits and souvenirs.
Yes, there are fans on some of the landings to help with the heat, but windows cannot be opened for preservation reasons.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography. Sunset can also provide stunning views of the lighthouse against the sky.
Yes, you can take photos from the top, but be mindful of other visitors and the wind. The panoramic views are excellent for capturing the landscape.
The grounds of Historic Corolla Park offer lovely perspectives, especially with the lighthouse as a backdrop. The surrounding marshes also provide scenic shots.
Engagement photos and scenic landscape shots are very popular. The lighthouse itself is a striking subject against the coastal backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historic sites and parks to ensure safety and preserve the experience for all visitors. Check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the climb, Historic Corolla Park offers a playground, making it a great place for kids to burn off energy before or after visiting the lighthouse.
It's a well-rounded destination that combines adventure, history, and play for the whole family. Consider visiting early to avoid crowds and the midday heat. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the lighthouse, with golden hour casting a warm glow. From the top of the lighthouse, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound await, perfect for landscape photographers.
Don't forget to capture the details of the lighthouse itself, from its brickwork to the intricate lantern room. 🚶♀️ Active Travelers
Beyond the lighthouse, the Outer Banks offer plenty of outdoor activities. Consider exploring the Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve or driving on the 4x4 beaches in Corolla for a more adventurous experience.
Many visitors also enjoy biking around Corolla. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse
+1The lighthouse is part of the Historic Corolla Park, which also includes the keeper's quarters and other historical buildings. These structures offer a glimpse into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families who maintained the light. The park itself is a beautiful area for exploration, often featuring events and activities.
+1Today, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to climb to the top and learn about its rich maritime history. It's a testament to the engineering and dedication of those who operated it, ensuring safe passage for countless vessels over the decades.
Climbing the Lighthouse: What to Expect
Before ascending, all climbers must sign a safety waiver, acknowledging the physical demands and potential risks associated with climbing a historic structure. It's important to note that children must be at least 4 years old to climb, and they cannot be carried. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended, and bringing a bottle of water is a wise choice, as the interior can become quite warm and humid, especially on hot days.
Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Outer Banks. You can see the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Currituck Sound on the other, offering a stunning perspective of the coastal landscape. The wind at the top can be invigorating after the climb.
Exploring Historic Corolla Park
+1Within the park, you can find exhibits detailing the history of the lighthouse and the lives of its keepers. The gift shop is also located here, offering a variety of souvenirs, books, and nautical-themed items. It's a perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit.
The park is also a hub for family-friendly activities. A playground was recently opened, making it an even more appealing destination for families with children. It's an ideal spot to combine a historical visit with outdoor recreation.
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