Ocracoke Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Beauty
Discover the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, and immerse yourself in the charm of the Outer Banks.
Nestled on the serene shores of Ocracoke Island, the Ocracoke Lighthouse stands as a historic sentinel of the sea. Built in 1823, it is the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, offering stunning views and a glimpse into maritime history. As a cherished tourist attraction and historical landmark, this iconic structure invites visitors to explore its charming surroundings, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the Outer Banks.
A brief summary to Ocracoke Lighthouse
- 360 Lighthouse Rd, Ocracoke, North Carolina, 27960, US
- +1252-473-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Check the lighthouse's tour schedule ahead of time, as hours can vary.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the nearby beach after your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the scenic area surrounding the lighthouse.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are breathtaking and perfect for photos!
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Inner Banks, drive to Highway 12 South. Follow Highway 12 until you reach the ferry terminal in Hatteras. The most common route is to take NC-12 S to Hatteras, which will take approximately 1 hour depending on traffic. At the ferry terminal, purchase a ticket for the ferry to Ocracoke Island. The ferry ride takes about 70 minutes, and you will need to pay a fee, which varies based on vehicle size (typically around $15-20 for a standard vehicle). Once you arrive at Ocracoke Island, continue driving on NC-12 until you reach Ocracoke Lighthouse at 360 Lighthouse Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
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Public Transportation
To reach Ocracoke Lighthouse using public transportation, you can start by taking a bus or shuttle service from various locations in Inner Banks to Hatteras. Companies like the Dare County Transportation provide shuttle services, although schedules may vary. Once you arrive at Hatteras, you will need to board the ferry to Ocracoke Island (ticket price applies). After disembarking from the ferry, you can either walk, bike, or use a local taxi service to reach Ocracoke Lighthouse, which is approximately 2 miles away from the ferry terminal.
Discover more about Ocracoke Lighthouse
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