Explore each Outer Banks Lighthouse, one at a time.

Outer Banks lighthouse travel guides, history, and coastal gifts.

Coastal stories, timeless beacons and the spirit of the Outer Banks.

Outer Banks Lighthouse was created to capture the beauty, nostalgia, and coastal character of the barrier islands. From striped towers rising above the dunes to quiet island beacons glowing at dusk, each design reflects the atmosphere of the shore and the history behind these landmarks.

Outer Banks Lighthouse is a coastal-inspired brand and destination for lighthouse lovers, collectors, travelers, and anyone drawn to the beauty of North Carolina’s shoreline. Our goal is simple: honor the six iconic lighthouses and share the charm they bring to the coast.

The Six Lighthouses

Photos • Descriptions • Travel tips

Each lighthouse has its own architecture, history, and mood—together they tell the coastal story of North Carolina.

Corolla

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

A classic red-brick beacon on the northern Outer Banks - great views and a walkable historic park.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

A charming waterfront stop in downtown Manteo - easy visit with beautiful sound side scenery.

Manteo

Bodie Island Lighthouse

An iconic black-and-white striped lighthouse near marshes - one of the most photographed Outer Banks spots.

Nags Head

Buxton

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

The signature spiral-striped landmark - an essential Outer Banks stop.

Cape Lookout Lighthouse

A striking black-and-white diamond-patterned beacon on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

Harkers Island

Ocracoke Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse on a laid-back island - perfect for a day trip and sunset photos.

Ocracoke Island

Outer Banks Lighthouse Road Trip Guide

How to visit all six iconic OBX lighthouses—without rushing the experience

From Corolla to Cape Lookout, North Carolina’s coast is home to six unforgettable lighthouses, each offering its own blend of history, scenery, and coastal character. Along the way, you can explore Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, and Cape Lookout Lighthouse — a collection of iconic landmarks that make the journey as memorable as the destinations themselves.

While it is technically possible to visit all six in a single trip, doing so would make for a very full schedule and leave little time to enjoy each stop. Ferry travel, driving time, and the natural temptation to linger at these beautiful locations make a slower-paced itinerary far more rewarding.

For a more enjoyable experience, consider spreading your lighthouse tour over several days:

Day 1: Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, and Bodie Island Lighthouse
Day 2: Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Ocracoke Island Lighthouse and Cape Lookout Lighthouse.

Whether you set out on an ambitious lighthouse road trip or choose a more relaxed coastal escape, visiting these historic beacons is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and heritage of the North Carolina coast.

Take time to walk the grounds, capture the views, explore nearby towns, and enjoy the beaches along the way. After all, a lighthouse tour is more than a checklist of landmarks—it’s a chance to soak in the timeless charm of the Outer Banks and Crystal Coast, one stop at a time.

Outer Banks 2026 Ferry Routes at a Glance

Looking for the fastest way to compare Outer Banks ferry routes? Use this quick guide to check crossing times, reservation needs, and current fare basics before you travel.

Outer Banks Ferry Guide: Routes, Schedules, Prices, and Travel Tips

Plan your trip with this Outer Banks ferry guide covering ferry routes, schedules, prices, reservations, and travel tips for Ocracoke, Hatteras, and more.

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