Ocracoke Lighthouse
Oldest Lighthouse In North Carolina
The Ocracoke Lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse in the United States and designed for helping to guide ships into the Ocracoke Inlet as early as 1798. Just like many of the early lighthouses, the original lighthouse also had a short life. Having been constructed of wood, it was at the end of its usefulness by 1818.
With the need of a more adequate lighthouse, the current location was purchased. By 1823, a new 75 foot tall lighthouse tower was constructed and put in use once again. It was fitted with a stationary light that can be seen a full 360 degrees from any direction. Today the light is fully automated and putting out 8,000 candlepower, making it visible up to 14 miles. You can further explore this beautiful, all-white historical lighthouse at Ocracoke. When you arrive in Hatteras, you will need to take the 45 minute ferry over to Ocracoke Island. Once you arrive on the island, follow Hwy. 12 south to the village of Ocracoke. You can't miss this beautiful white lighthouse standing tall above anything else on the island. I believe you will enjoy exploring this really great little town with the local history and stories of Edward "Blackbeard" Teach. The Ocracoke beach was rated #1 in 2007 in America by "Dr. Beach" Stephen Leatherman. So do yourself a favor and come see the lighthouse and explore Ocracoke Island.
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