Ocracoke Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Beauty
Discover the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse, a treasured landmark in North Carolina's Outer Banks, offering stunning views and rich maritime heritage.
Ocracoke Lighthouse, a historic landmark in North Carolina, offers visitors a glimpse into maritime heritage, stunning coastal views, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for exploration and relaxation.
A brief summary to Ocracoke Lighthouse
- 360 Lighthouse Rd, Ocracoke, North Carolina, 27960, US
- +1252-473-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit for the best experience.
- Don't forget to explore the nearby village for unique shops and local cuisine.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting marine life in the surrounding waters.
- Take advantage of the walking trails around the lighthouse for a peaceful nature experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Hatteras Island, take NC-12 North towards Ocracoke. This scenic route will take you through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Once you reach the end of NC-12, you'll arrive at the ferry terminal in Hatteras. Here, you will need to take the free ferry to Ocracoke Island. The ferry ride lasts about 40 minutes. Upon reaching Ocracoke, follow NC-12 to the intersection with Lighthouse Road. Turn right onto Lighthouse Road, and you will find Ocracoke Lighthouse at the end of the road at 360 Lighthouse Rd.
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Public Transportation
If you do not have a car, you can take a bus or shuttle service from various locations in the Outer Banks to Hatteras. From there, you will need to take the ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke. Check local schedules for bus services to Hatteras and ensure you arrive in time for the ferry. Once you arrive on Ocracoke Island, you can either walk, rent a bike, or take a local taxi service to reach Ocracoke Lighthouse at 360 Lighthouse Rd.
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Ferry
The ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke is free, but it is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist season, as there may be long wait times. The ferry operates regularly but be sure to check the current schedule on the North Carolina Ferry Division website for any updates or changes.
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