Discover the Wonders of the Museum of the Sea
Explore maritime history and oceanic wonders at the Museum of the Sea in Buxton, NC, a captivating destination for all ocean enthusiasts.
Nestled in the heart of Buxton, North Carolina, the Museum of the Sea invites tourists to explore the rich maritime history of the Outer Banks. From shipwreck artifacts to interactive exhibits, this museum is a treasure trove for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to Museum of the Sea
- 46377 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, North Carolina, 27920, US
- +1252-995-4474
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events or workshops that might coincide with your visit.
- Don’t forget your camera; the museum and its surroundings offer fantastic photo opportunities.
- Allow extra time to explore the museum shop, which features unique maritime-themed souvenirs.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, the Museum of the Sea is located at 46377 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC 27920. From Nags Head, take NC-12 South towards Hatteras Island. Continue on NC-12 for about 30 miles. When you reach Buxton, watch for Lighthouse Road on your right. Turn onto Lighthouse Rd, and the museum will be on your left. There is ample parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
Currently, public transportation options in the Outer Banks are limited. However, you can use local taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft to reach the museum. If you're starting from Nags Head, you can request a ride to 46377 Lighthouse Rd, Buxton, NC 27920. Be prepared for a fare that may range from $40 to $70 depending on traffic and exact starting location.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, consider biking to the Museum of the Sea. From Nags Head, you can take NC-12 South, which has a bike lane in some areas. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules. The ride is approximately 30 miles and can take around 2-3 hours depending on your pace. Once you arrive, there is bike parking available at the museum.
Discover more about Museum of the Sea
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, where history meets breathtaking ocean views in the beautiful Outer Banks region.
USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker
75.8 km
Explore the USLSS Station Pea Island Historical Marker, celebrating the brave surfmen of the United States Life-Saving Service in Manteo, NC.
First English Colonies Historical Marker
77.5 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
87.9 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
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
0.1 km
Experience the majestic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, a historic gem on the Outer Banks, offering stunning views and rich maritime history.
Old Lighthouse Beach Access
0.6 km
Explore Old Lighthouse Beach Access in Buxton, NC - a serene coastal paradise perfect for relaxation, beach activities, and stunning ocean views.
Cape Point
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cape Point, where the Atlantic meets the Pamlico Sound, offering adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Outer Banks.
Kite Point
4.7 km
Experience thrilling kite surfing and stunning coastal views at Kite Point in Buxton, North Carolina, the ultimate destination for water sports enthusiasts.
Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center
8.8 km
Discover the rich heritage of Native American culture at the Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center, a captivating blend of history and nature.
Kavon Park
11.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Kavon Park in Avon, North Carolina, a perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor activities.
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
14.5 km
Explore the Hatteras Island Ocean Center for a unique educational experience focused on marine life and coastal conservation.
Hatteras Village Park
15.3 km
Explore Hatteras Village Park: A serene escape in the Outer Banks perfect for nature lovers and family outings.
Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
16.6 km
Explore the captivating maritime history of the Outer Banks at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, where shipwrecks and stories come to life.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
19.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where pristine beaches meet rich history and outdoor adventures await.
Salvo Day Area Outer Banks
31.2 km
Explore the stunning Salvo Day Area in the Outer Banks, a peaceful park perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for natural beauty.
Salvo Day Use Area
31.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Salvo Day Use Area in North Carolina's Outer Banks, a perfect destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Pea Island Art Gallery
32.1 km
Discover the rich artistic heritage of the Outer Banks at Pea Island Art Gallery, showcasing unique local artworks and crafts.
Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort
36.5 km
Experience the beauty of the Outer Banks at Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA Resort, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in nature's paradise.
Essential places to dine
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Old Gray House Gifts
1.9 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
8.2 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
9.3 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
10.8 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
12.1 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
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious coastal cuisine at Lighthouse Sports Bar, your perfect retreat in Buxton, North Carolina.
Pop's Raw Bar
2.8 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.
3.3 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
10.9 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
11.5 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
12.4 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
13.4 km
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The Wreck Tiki Bar
16.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and family-friendly atmosphere of The Wreck Tiki Bar, your tropical retreat in Hatteras, North Carolina.
Hatteras Bowls
35.2 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
35.4 km
Experience the best of coastal cuisine at Watermen's Bar & Grill in Waves, NC, with fresh seafood and a welcoming atmosphere.