Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Natural Beauty
Discover Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a historical marvel and natural wonder, where history meets breathtaking coastal beauty in the Outer Banks.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands as a majestic symbol of maritime history, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the picturesque landscapes and learn about the rich legacy of this iconic structure.
A brief summary to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
- 46379 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, North Carolina, 27920, US
- +1252-473-2111
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Consider checking the official National Park Service website for any special ranger-led programs or events during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on climbing the lighthouse; the steps can be steep and narrow.
- Bring binoculars to spot dolphins and other wildlife along the coast from the lighthouse.
- Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking the nearby trails.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car, head south on NC-12. From the northern part of the Outer Banks, follow NC-12 South through towns such as Nags Head and Hatteras Village. Continue on NC-12 until you reach Buxton. The lighthouse is located at 46379 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC 27920. There is a small parking area nearby that is free of charge.
-
Public Transportation
If you plan to use public transportation, you can take the Dare County Public Transportation (Dare County Bus) that operates on the Outer Banks. Check their schedule to find a route that takes you to Buxton. After arriving in Buxton, you may need to walk approximately 1 mile to reach the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Be advised that the bus service may have limited hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
-
Biking/Walking
For those who enjoy biking or walking, you can rent a bike from local shops in nearby towns. Once you are in Buxton, follow the signs to the lighthouse. The route along NC-12 is accessible, but always be cautious of traffic. It is about a 1-mile bike ride or walk from the closest parking area to the lighthouse.
Discover more about Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Original Location
0.9 km
Explore the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a stunning beacon of maritime history and breathtaking views along North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Easternmost Point of North Carolina
37.7 km
Explore the Easternmost Point of North Carolina - a historical landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and rich maritime heritage.
USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker
75.9 km
Discover the legacy of maritime heroism at the USLSS Station Pea Island, a historical landmark on North Carolina's picturesque Outer Banks.
First English Colonies Historical Marker
77.6 km
Explore the First English Colonies Historical Marker in Manteo, NC, and uncover the fascinating story of early American settlers in a beautiful coastal setting.
Cape Lookout National Seashore
88.0 km
Explore the stunning beaches, historic lighthouse, and diverse ecosystems of Cape Lookout National Seashore, a natural paradise in North Carolina.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of the Sea
0.1 km
Discover the maritime history of the Outer Banks at the Museum of the Sea in Buxton, North Carolina, a perfect family-friendly destination.
Old Lighthouse Beach Access
0.5 km
Explore Old Lighthouse Beach Access in Buxton, NC, where sandy shores meet rich maritime history and stunning ocean vistas await.
Cape Point
2.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cape Point in Buxton, NC, where the Atlantic meets the Outer Banks' stunning coastal landscapes.
Kite Point
4.8 km
Discover Kite Point in Buxton, NC: a paradise for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and breathtaking coastal views in the Outer Banks.
Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center
8.9 km
Explore the rich history and culture of Native Americans at the Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center in North Carolina.
Kavon Park
11.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Kavon Park in Avon, NC – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families seeking serenity in the heart of North Carolina.
Avon Fishing Pier
11.0 km
Discover the beauty of fishing, relaxation, and stunning ocean views at Avon Fishing Pier on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Hatteras Island Ocean Center
14.6 km
Discover the marine wonders and educational experiences at Hatteras Island Ocean Center, a must-visit for nature lovers on the coast.
Hatteras Village Park
15.4 km
Explore Hatteras Village Park, a serene retreat in the Outer Banks, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking relaxation and adventure.
Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
16.7 km
Explore maritime history at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras, North Carolina, where shipwreck stories and coastal culture come to life.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
20.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina, a coastal paradise for all nature lovers.
Salvo Day Area Outer Banks
31.3 km
Explore the serene Salvo Day Area on the Outer Banks, where nature and recreation converge for an unforgettable day in paradise.
Salvo Day Use Area
31.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures of Salvo Day Use Area, a perfect coastal retreat in North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Pea Island Art Gallery
32.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistic community at Pea Island Art Gallery, a hidden gem showcasing unique local art and crafts in the heart of Salvo, North Carolina.
Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort
36.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Cape Hatteras at the KOA Resort, where camping meets coastal charm in the Outer Banks.
Essential places to dine
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Old Gray House Gifts
2.0 km
Explore Old Gray House Gifts in Buxton, NC for unique handmade items and local treasures that celebrate the spirit of North Carolina.
Askins Creek Store
8.3 km
Explore the charm of the Outer Banks at Askins Creek Store, your go-to convenience store for essentials and local treasures in Avon.
Super Wings
9.4 km
Discover unique beach clothing and souvenirs at Super Wings, Avon, NC's charming gift shop that captures the coastal spirit.
Patriot Outpost
9.5 km
Explore American pride through unique jewelry and apparel at Patriot Outpost in Avon, NC. A must-visit for every Outer Banks traveler.
Mill Creek Gifts
10.9 km
Explore Mill Creek Gifts: A charming gift shop in Avon, NC, featuring unique local crafts and treasures to take home.
Simply OBX & X-Treme Arcade
11.4 km
Discover beachwear and arcade fun at Simply OBX & X-Treme Arcade in Avon, NC, a perfect fusion of shopping and entertainment for all ages.
OBXorganiX LLC
11.7 km
Explore OBXorganiX LLC in Avon, NC for a unique selection of organic foods and natural beauty products, perfect for health-conscious travelers.
Hattiebuilt
11.7 km
Explore Hattiebuilt in Avon, NC for unique gifts and local artistry that capture the spirit of the Outer Banks.
Salty Sandollar Boutique
11.7 km
Explore Salty Sandollar Boutique for unique gifts and local crafts in Avon, North Carolina, capturing the spirit of the Outer Banks.
Island Spice & Wine
12.2 km
Experience the unique flavors of the Outer Banks at Island Spice & Wine, a charming wine store in Avon offering exquisite selections and local delicacies.
The Island Attic- Avon
12.9 km
Explore The Island Attic in Avon, a charming home goods store filled with unique treasures and local artisan crafts that capture coastal living.
ArtSea
12.9 km
Discover unique local art and handcrafted gifts at ArtSea, Avon’s charming gift shop that showcases the spirit of the Outer Banks.
Fisherman's Daughter
13.4 km
Explore Fisherman's Daughter in Avon, NC for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of the Outer Banks.
Kitty Hawk Kites
13.5 km
Explore Kitty Hawk Kites in Avon, NC, your ultimate destination for kites, outdoor gear, and unique souvenirs on the beautiful Outer Banks.
Blue Whale
32.9 km
Discover local flavors at the Blue Whale grocery store in Salvo, North Carolina, your go-to spot for fresh produce and friendly service in the Outer Banks.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lighthouse Sports Bar
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious coastal cuisine at Lighthouse Sports Bar, your perfect retreat in Buxton, North Carolina.
Pop's Raw Bar
3.0 km
Experience the taste of the coast at Pop's Raw Bar in Buxton, North Carolina, a seafood lovers' paradise with a charming local atmosphere.
Sandbar & Grille, inc.
3.4 km
Experience the taste of the coast at Sandbar & Grille, where delicious grilled dishes meet stunning views in Buxton, NC.
Gidget's Pizza & Pasta
9.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Gidget's Pizza & Pasta in Avon, where delicious pizzas and pastas await in a cozy atmosphere.
Dirty Dick's Crab House - Avon
9.4 km
Experience the best of seafood dining at Dirty Dick's Crab House, where fresh flavors and fun atmosphere unite in Avon, NC.
Pangea Tavern
11.0 km
Experience culinary delights at Pangea Tavern, the premier dining destination in Avon, North Carolina, blending local flavors with a vibrant atmosphere.
Oceanas Bistro
11.3 km
Discover the flavors of the Outer Banks at Oceanas Bistro, a charming bistro offering fresh seafood and local ingredients in a cozy setting.
Howards Tap Shack
11.6 km
Discover the local nightlife at Howards Tap Shack, a lively bar in Avon, North Carolina, perfect for drinks and socializing.
Mad Crabber Restaurant
11.6 km
Experience the best of seafood dining at Mad Crabber Restaurant, where fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere await in Avon, North Carolina.
Ketch 55 Seafood Grill
11.9 km
Experience the freshest seafood and vibrant flavors at Ketch 55 Seafood Grill, a must-visit dining spot in Avon, NC.
The Froggy Dog
12.5 km
Discover the heart of American flavors at The Froggy Dog in Avon, NC, where a warm atmosphere meets delicious traditional cuisine.
Po House, Good Eats & Libations, Sound - Side Dining
13.5 km
Experience the taste of the Outer Banks at Po House, where fresh seafood meets vibrant libations in a charming coastal setting.
The Wreck Tiki Bar
16.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and family-friendly atmosphere of The Wreck Tiki Bar, your tropical retreat in Hatteras, North Carolina.
Hatteras Bowls
35.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of health-focused bowls at Hatteras Bowls in North Carolina's Outer Banks—where fresh meets delicious.
Watermen's Bar & Grill
35.5 km
Experience the best of coastal cuisine at Watermen's Bar & Grill in Waves, NC, with fresh seafood and a welcoming atmosphere.
