Ocracoke Island Lighthouse

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9 months ago

This was the number one thing I wanted to see on Ocracoke and now that I've seen it, I'm happy! I love lighthouses, having visited 128 lighthouses across the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, the Republic of Ireland and even a lightboat in Sweden. Do lighthouses in Oklahoma (Lake Hefner), West Virginia (Summersville) and Vermont (Shelburne) count? They do for me! Ocracoka's lighthouse is easy to access with parking lots nearby and it's maybe a one mile walk from the ferry terminal. It was built in 1823 by Massachusetts builder Noah Porter and is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest still standing in the state. It was constructed to guide ships safely through the treacherous Ocracoke Inlet into Pamlico Sound, a vital route for maritime trade and military supply lines. Standing 75 feet tall with a conical brick structure, the lighthouse was automated in 1955, and while visitors can access the base during summer months, the tower itself is not open for climbing. Its enduring presence and simple elegance make it one of the most beloved landmarks on the Outer Banks. [Review 775 of 2025 - 4207 in North Carolina - 24335 overall] read more

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Stephen R.

8

131

451

6 months ago

Well it's another lighthouse. There is free parking a block down, or park at the church just past the lighthouse for a donation. There is a boardwalk to the lighthouse that keeps your feet dry. Can't climb the stairs. Basically this is a 5 min visit, take some pics, read the history sign, then leave. I guess once the light keepers house is done with restoration there may be a museum to see? read more

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Brittany M.

36

237

738

7 months ago

Meh. It's a pretty white lighthouse on Ocracoke. You can't go up, sometimes it's staffed. Sometimes you're just on your own to walk down little path, past the two light Keepers houses and Peak your head up. Sometimes it's not very well maintained other times the path is cleared. Today it was flooded. What can you do? read more

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Rohini G.

13

384

528

2 years ago

This lighthouse is nice but the grounds are definitely not as expansive as the museum components and great explanations at the visitors centers found at other OBX lighthouses. Given the ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke is ~75 minutes each way, this is like a bonus thing to see if you have the time. Not something I would go out of my way for. read more

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Taylor V.

5

117

191

2 years ago

Very easy to access. This is a stop using the golf cart service around town. When compared to all the other lighthouses in the area, off the island, this one is very underwhelming. I would not go out of my way to visit but if you find yourself on the island go ahead and take the five seconds to look at it. read more

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Christopher C.

103

1792

9377

3 years ago

As always, let's bring this one up to the current. Last week we made our triumphant return to the Isle of Ocracoke and any visit to Ocracoke should include a stop at the lighthouse. Many other Yelpers, self included, have covered the age and history of the structure so I'm not going there but where I am going to go is to a few of the detail points of note before making a visit. Of the five lighthouses in the OBX, this is only one that you cannot climb due to the stairs and other parts not being structurally sound. This is not a new thing (more on this later). The other four barring long term maintenance projects (of which Hatteras and Cape Lookout currently have going on) are climbable at some point during the year. The best you're going to get is that if you check one of the Ocracoke-centric websites that are actually updated, you might find a time when NPS volunteers will have the base open and you can get a brief look inside. As an example, the week after Christmas, the base was open Wed-Fri from 1pm-3pm. We had a long talk with the volunteers there and they said that while a final plan and funding isn't set at this time, this year marks the lighthouse's 200th birthday and plans are in the works for multiple future possibilities for both the lighthouse and the adjacent keepers quarters. Some of them include the ability to allow limited climbing of the lighthouse but any of this (final funding appropriations/contracts/repairs) are still years off. If you go: The lighthouse has a few parking spaces on the grounds and significantly (by Ocracoke standards) more parking is available down the road at the Ocracoke Assembly of God Church for a small donation in their drop box. Even if the base is open, this is by no means a stop this takes anything more than a few minutes. But it's still worth it especially if you're into Pharology to see the major difference in this one compared to ones in Hatteras or Bodie Island. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Looking up the base - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Brian C.

500

264

809

2 years ago

Visited all the lighthouses on the Outer Banks and each one has its own unique qualities. I live the layout of the Ocracoke lighthouse and the walk leading up. The view is scenic and the lighthouse is pretty to view. An easy and small location to get around. Definitely worth viewing. read more

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Jeffrey M.

Elite 23

1376

601

1628

3 years ago

Closed to climbers to the top of the lighthouse, but the Park Ranger was there to greet visitors and eager to tell the visitors about the history of this 2nd oldest working lighthouse in the USA. We were able to go inside and look up. It's worth the 7-minute walk from the main road in Ocracoke. There is no need to drive. Everything is walkable in town on Ocracoke. Fun Facts: The lighthouse stands about 75 feet tall. Its diameter narrows from 25 feet at the base to 12 feet at its peak. The walls are solid brick - 5 feet thick at the bottom tapering to 2 feet at the top. An octagonal lantern crowns the tower and houses the light beacon. The exterior's solid white colouration serves as its identifying mark to mariners by day. The original whitewash "recipe" called for blending lime, salt, spanish whiting, rice, glue, and boiling water. The mixture was applied while still hot. read more

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Rebecca M.

426

1397

38854

5 years ago

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse stands at 75 feet tall. It is the second oldest lighthouse in the nation and the oldest operating lighthouse . It was built in 1823. It is not open to be climbed because of its age. There was very little parking and the road was closed because they wanted the trees to grow. The lighthouse doesn't have restrooms, a museum, information center or gift shop. I wouldn't make a special trip to see this lighthouse but it is worth a visit in your are nearby. read more

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Jacqueline T.

152

2384

21813

5 years ago

We went to all of the lighthouses in the Outer Banks and this one wasn't one of our favorites. There is a small parking lot right in front of the path to it. We were there in the off season and had to wait for a spot, so I'd imagine it's really hard to find a spot in the summer. There are a few signs with information about the lighthouse. You can't climb the lighthouse. I found it kind of strange that the lighthouse was in the middle of a residential neighborhood. I wouldn't come to Ocracoke just to see the lighthouse, but if you're there, it's worth a quick stop. read more

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Mark S.

586

1011

1806

4 years ago

Ocracoke Island lighthouse is one of seven located in North Carolina. It was built in 1823. And is the second oldest in the US. Believe it's only 75 feet to the top, but it's closed for climbing to the top. They are currently doing repairs. Which once again was a bit of a bummer. Pro tip... Check the website beforehand to see if it's open.:( read more

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Robert G.

21

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3 years ago

My wife and I took the ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke to see this lighthouse! We loved it and the little boardwalk area around it. We both just wish there was a little more to it, like being able to go in the lighthouse or being able to go in a gift shop there. read more

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Boon C.

772

4353

30694

8 years ago

This is the forth and last lighthouse that I can reach by car at Outer Bank (OBX). This lighthouse is the oldest at OBX and one of the oldest in the US. This light original built next to Ocracoke Inlet. But the inlet move and damage the original light house. Now the current light is located at much better location. This light house was build 1823. It is second oldest function light house. The light can reach 14 mile even though it is not the tallest in OBX. The current light cannot allow visitors to climb. You allow to visit the outside and take pictures. It has limited parking spot. Many visitors reach here by bike. read more

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Tammy E.

Elite 23

8

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5 years ago

Standing only 65' tall the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse may not be the most imposing lighthouse on the outer banks but it's one of the most beloved. Still towering over the 4 square miles of Ocracoke Village its beacon can be spotted up to 14 miles into the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. That's impressive. This unique Lighthouse is a must see. Once you arrive on the island it's not very hard to find. Just look for Lighthouse Rd. Several parking spots. It's not open to climbers and there is no gift shop but you can explore and take photos of the white beacon of light. It's nestled behind the keepers quarters and cluster of Live Oaks. read more

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Courtney K.

635

2769

5349

8 years ago

Bottom Line: A historic 195 year old lighthouse that can be visited but not climbed. Unlike other lighthouses on the Outer Banks, the Ocracoke Island Lighouse was built to warn mariners in the Pamlico Sound rather than in the Atlantic Ocean. For that reason, it is short compared to its companions like Hattersas, Bodie, Currituck and Cape Lookout. Responsibility for the lighthouse is shared between the National Park Service and the United States Coast Guard. The USCG ensures the automated light is working properly while the NPS conducts daily operations like hosting visitors and educating the public. The light house is not open for climbing but the doors are open at select times to allow visitors to take a peak inside and to chat with a Park Ranger. You can find out when the lighthouse will be open by calling or visiting the Ocracoke Visitors Centers. The lighthouse is probably about 1/2 mile from Ocracoke Village. It is best accessed on foot or bike since there is not much parking at the lighthouse - maybe just three or four spots. Access between the parking lot and the lighthouse is via a very nice boardwalk that I suspect is ADA compliant. The Keeper's quarters are still on site too. My recommendations for visiting this lighthouse in the summer months is to to wear OFF! and to find out when the doors will be open and a Ranger present so you can learn more. This is a lovely piece of American history and certainly worth a visit when visiting Ocracoke Island. read more

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Tara G.

161

527

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7 years ago

I don't think that this little lighthouse gets enough 'light'. It's a cute little lighthouse on Ocracoke Island. Yes, it isn't as grand as it's nearby competitor The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, but it's still worth seeing. My husband and I were visiting the area for our anniversary and took the ferry over to Ocracake Island, just to see this lighthouse. It was worth the trip over. Although we didn't get to climb it (I'm not sure that anyone gets to climb it or if it wasn't in season), we got to take a looksy on the outside and ground level. If you're going to be in the area anyway, it's worth the stop. Parking is a beast! We were just touring the island for an hour or two and had our car, but next time we visit the island, we are going to park and rent a golf cart and some bikes like the rest of the island does. There are truly maybe 4 spots to park off this small side street. The good news is, that there is a time limit of 15 minutes for parking, but I'm not so sure it's enforced. Back to the lighthouse, there isn't much to say about it. Walking up to it, there is a wooded path surrounded by long grass. It's quite lovely. The lighthouse was never made to be a lighthouse for distress, but rather a welcoming light. There was a park ranger there who was willing to talk about the lighthouse and answer any questions you may have. We didn't stay long. We got a look, grabbed a photo opportunity and was on our way. read more

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Megan J.

2

13

142

4 years ago

If your taking a trip to Ocracoke Island the Ocracoke Island Light house is a must see! It's a 200 year old lighthouse in a beautiful location. read more

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Charlie F.

183

1320

2189

15 years ago

As a tourist attraction, it's not something that will take a lot of your time to explore all that is there. The parking area is for 15 minutes only and that is more than enough time to see everything. What's special is that this lighthouse is still operating and serving its purpose. Take a few minutes and enjoy your visit. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - The walkway to the lighthouse (with the "lighthouse cat") - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Amanda B.

15

14

5 years ago

Not at all what you would think. There are only 3 parking spaces that are 15 minutes. There is no gift shop or exhibits. Don't get me wrong; neat experience but was expecting more after we had waited over an hour and a half for the ferry. Then the hour ferry ride. It's nice to check off your bucket list if you have one; otherwise don't bother. You can go in but that's it. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - The stairs. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Informative ranger. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Faith P.

0

9

0

3 years ago

beautiful lighthouse!! the grounds were very well kept, the lightkeepers quarters were beautiful. not being able to go inside and tour it is a bummer but still worth stopping by! read more

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Aidan A.

0

3

0

3 years ago

The lighthouse was pretty cool. You are unable to enter the lighthouse which is the biggest downfall. The is a nice path way up to it and a nice stop for pictures, but the way is very hot to walk on without shoes. read more

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Juan M.

6

47

25

6 years ago

Nice lighthouse, but not much to look at or do. Don't come to Ocracoke just to visit this site, you will be disappointed. Parking available for five cars maximum, although spaces open up quickly as visitors do not stay longer than 10 minutes. Visitors can not climb to the top. Sometimes NPS opens the door to the lighthouse for a quick peek inside. However, it's rarely open. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Ocracoke Lighthouse. January 3, 2020. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Alex L.

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11 years ago

It's nice to visit the oldest operating lighthouse in the US. My sister and I didn't do much here, but snap a few photos and crash a few wedding photos, but really enjoyed the view and nice walk. It's worth a stop if you find yourself on this island. My advice would be to rent some bicycles and trek down here. I don't think you can go inside, although sometimes I've read that the door is open but the area outside the lighthouse is very nice and picturesque and how cool that you're standing outside the oldest operating lighthouse in the US?! read more

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Nicole N.

Elite 21

194

219

261

11 years ago

Very nice lighthouse. A lot of historical significance, being the second oldest lighthouse in the US. Rated 4-stars due to being out of the way from other main OBX locations. A ferry is required to get to the island. If you have time, I would definitely recommend going to see this lighthouse and the island as a whole. Much less busy than other parts of the OBX. There is only 15-minute parking for cars. But there is a nice grassy area to walk dogs. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Ocracoke Island Lighthouse, NC - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Ben S.

30

142

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12 years ago

First of all, don't plan a visit to Ocracoke *just* to see the lighthouse. I guarantee that you will be disappointed if that's your main reason for going to Ocracoke, because it's not a major attraction like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is. However, the Ocracoke Lighthouse is a good thing to stop and see if you're already doing other things in Ocracoke. It's worth about 5-10 minutes as a side trip while doing other things, though, since Ocracoke is full of other interesting things to do. The lighthouse itself is not particularly tall, and there is no access to the interior. Basically, all you do is walk along a raised path up to the door, and look at the outside. Parking is extremely limited, with only about five spaces. There is no visitors' center, and there are no restrooms. Again, it's worth a few minutes while you're already out doing other things, but don't plan a trip around it specifically. read more

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Sarah M.

1

42

17

7 years ago

Cute little lighthouse you can walk up to but can't climb. Worth a stop if you're on Ocracoke. read more

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Ann L.

Elite 15

405

345

879

12 years ago

When on Ocracoke Island, this is a must see. We went early, so we had the place to ourselves. It's easy to find, easy to park, and easy path to the lighthouse. The kitty welcomed us with open meows. You can't go inside. It's private. But taking a few photos of the outside is all I wanted anyway. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Kitty the lighthouse host - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Wes A.

652

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6482

8 years ago

Reading some of these reviews are hilarious! I look at a lighthouse as a memorial to a lifesaving team . A historic significance that save countless of lives ! No gift shop or it's not tall enough is a insult to the lives this building has helped saved ! Wouldn't it be ironic, if the people who were complaining about this light , that there ancestors safely sought passage through the waters in this area ! I certainly digress. I enjoyed the visit and gave my respects for the people who passed away providing a very important service ! Thanks ! read more

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Matt M.

Elite 19

76

79

202

8 years ago

A beautiful lighthouse to visit while on vacation at Ocracoke Island. It's a classic, nice little white light house surrounded by neatly trimmed green grass, white picket fences, and beautiful pink flowers on the left side of the wooden walk way, depending on the time of year I suppose. It's something you would see on a painting at somebody's house, it's stunningly beautiful. It actually works by lighting up at the night time. Except a nice walk and checking the lighthouse out, there's not much else to do here. But I still give it 4 stars because it's nicely maintained and just a beautiful walk to start of your day. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Parking Lot - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Convienent dog poop bags - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Donation "box" - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Laurie I.

54

1508

389

8 years ago

Nice lighthouse but you cant get in. Parking is horrible but just wait a few minutes and it only a few minute wait as tourists come back right away. Circle the corner if you cant find a spot read more

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Christy M.

Elite 18

106

124

462

8 years ago

This lighthouse is so pretty. They have old trees out front that make a good background for pictures. There is someone stationed inside the lighthouse that gives you a little historical information. Please note that you cannot climb this lighthouse as the top is very small. read more

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Carmela S.

840

1040

3736

9 years ago

A private lighthouse but, good photo ops from the outside. The trail is easy and I rented a bicycle to tour the island and I think that is truly the best way to see everything since this isn't closely located to other attractions. I came out on a fall day with the warm sun and a nice cool breeze which made for the perfect backdrop to view this piece of history. There is short time parking and spaces that are dog friendly if you bring your pup. I could have spent hours here just staring at this lighthouse but, that may be just me and my love of history. If you are spending the day here make sure you check this place out. read more

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Joe D.

Elite 24

475

810

4402

16 years ago

The Ocracoke Lighthouse is North Carolina's oldest operating lighthouse.The present (and 3rd) lighthouse was approved for construction in 1822 and was built and lit by 1823. This lighthouse only cost $11,359.35 to build, and this included a three room keeper's quarters. The lighthouse stands sixty-five feet tall, and rises seventy-five above sea level. The current lighting apparatus has 8,000 candlepower and can be seen from fourteen miles out to sea read more

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Peter J.

0

98

349

13 years ago

Though not nearly as majestic as its more famous OBX counterparts, Ocracoke Island Lighthouse stands as a testament to functionality and historic significance. It is a quaint little stop during your Outer Banks vacation. Parking is indeed limited so plan accordingly. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - The sign tells the whole story. If no one else is that interested, don't be the one who has to read every word of everything. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - There she is. Leave yourself at least a half day for a visit...just kidding. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Built long before the Civil War. That's old for an existing structure on the Carolina coast. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - The keeper's cottage is a nice house, but off limits also. The dog looked friendly enough, but he did not want a pat. Bummer. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Darlene L.

133

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543

9 years ago

Beautiful lighthouse and grounds. A must see if in the area due to the history that was made and memories that can be made while visiting. Taking at ferry to get there offers great views as well. read more

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Heidi D.

0

6

0

7 years ago

The lighthouse is fun to see and especially if you can see the Ocracat Thurstan that lives there. We love it both day and night.

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Tim M.

6

122

23

11 years ago

If you go to Ocracoke you need to go see the lighthouse. If the door is not open there is not much to see there, but it is interesting to see since it is so different than the others in the area. Getting to go inside was a treat. See my pictures of inside. read more

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - They say you don't get to see inside the lighthouse often, but it was open 2 hours the day we got there. You can't climb it though. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse - Looking up, the stairs are not the original ones, but you still can't climb it. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Ocracoke, North Carolina

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Zach H.

0

11

0

5 years ago

Short white lighthouse that fits the area. Not the tallest or coolest lighthouse of them all, but getting to Ocracoke is an adventure. Took the ferry from Hatters across the ocean and enjoyed it. Plan your time wisely or you'll be stuck there for the night read more

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Karson K.

12

10

0

7 years ago

I've been here many times on vacation and it is just a perfect getaway if you need a vacation and the lighthouse is for sure the first thing you must visit when visiting the island such a good vacation spot read more

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Kelli R.

7

70

26

13 years ago

We took a ferry over to Oracoke Island which was nice as you put your car on the ferry. However, there is nothing to do on this island other than tourist trap little shops and this not so pretty lighthouse. The parking for the lighthouse is 15 minutes only which tells you something about how much time you need to check it out. Save yourself some time and skip this boring island! read more

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More info about Ocracoke Island Lighthouse

Lighthouse Rd
Ocracoke, NC 27960
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(800) 293-3779
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Review Highlights - Ocracoke Island Lighthouse

“. Still towering over the 4 square miles of Ocracoke Village its beacon can be spotted up to 14 miles into the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean”

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British Cemetery

4.5(10 reviews)

0.6 mi

On Ocracoke Island, the British Cemetery commemorates four British Royal Navy sailors who lost…read moretheir lives on May 11, 1942, when German U-boat 558 attacked their ship, the HMT Bedfordshire. Only four remains were found when the ship sank off the coast of North Carolina while searching for enemy submarines; they washed up close to the settlement. Residents of Ocracoke gave a tiny piece of land for their burial as a token of appreciation and respect; this area is now permanently leased to the British Commonwealth, making it, metaphorically, British soil. Each year on the anniversary of the sinking, a memorial ceremony is held with representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, British Royal Navy, and Canadian forces, honoring the sacrifice of these men who died defending American shores. [Review 778 of 2025 - 4210 in North Carolina - 24338 overall]

There are several British Cemeteries at Outer Bank. There is one at Buxton. The most visible one is…read morelocated at Ocracoke. The cemetery is close to the local island graveyard plot. It is easy to find going towards the ferry and the is a road call British Cemetery Road. I have a a lot of respect to the seaman from Britain to protect our shore during the World War II. The allies force has come to here to fight the German U boat submarine. The German U boat lurk to the coastline of North Carolina and wait to attack the US. This has been protect by British Navy. Some has lost their live during this conflict. On May 12, 1942, another attack on a British ship would occur off the coastline. This time an attack was waged the HMS Bedfordshire. The entire crew was lost and only four bodies are found. These seaman was later burry in the island. The US coast guard has memorial service every year to remember the courage seaman. There are people putting their coin on top of the cross. A coin left on a headstone let's the deceased soldier's family know that somebody stopped by to pay their respect. Leaving a penny means you visited. A nickel means that you and the deceased soldier trained at boot camp together. If you served with the soldier, you leave a dime

British Cemetery, Ocracoka

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British Cemetery, Ocracoka

Old Burying Ground

4.8(14 reviews)

47.0 mi

What a unique experience I had finding this place…read more I had posted on Facebook that I was in town from LA and a friend from 30 years ago, then at first met at my first job in California randomly responded about the Old Burying Ground and said I should visit it. We were downtown and hitting a couple spots, and I was mentioning to my friend that lives locally about her response and it came right at the same exact moment that we were passing the cemetery and she pointed it out, so we quickly stopped and backed up and parked, and took a venture inside, mainly to see the girl that was buried in a barrel of rum, holy cow when you see the age of some of these graves and realize how extremely old they are, and you really quickly getting a sense of the magnitude of the history of the place. It is well worth your time to visit and explore.

Beautiful , historic graveyard . If you love history this burying ground is definitely worth a stop…read more. Plan to spend around 30 minutes here , maybe longer if you take your time to read the tombstones . It's a well kept graveyard but be sure to watch your step as the terrain is uneven in some areas . If you really want to learn more about the town's oldest graveyard , you can take a tour offered by the Beaufort Historical Association . Go to the website or visit the Beaufort Historical Center on Turner Street for more info . It's a peaceful final resting place for hundreds of notable people , soldiers , seaman and most notably , the Rum Girl .

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Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

4.6(160 reviews)

27.6 mi

A major bummer that the lighthouse is under repair, completely scaffolded and with none of its…read moreusual charm. It was supposed to be done later this year but with funding cuts, they no longer have an ETA. The gift shop is really nice and the folks working there were extremely apologetic and perhaps a little embarrassed. Still, it's a historic lighthouse and worth stopping by. Just check in first to see if they're finished the refurbishment. [Review 795 of 2025 - 4227 in North Carolina - 24355 overall]

It's still under construction. Bathrooms are about the only thing useful. I went inside the…read morevisitors center and gift shop and the staff seemed a bit mean and didn't want to be there. Plenty of parking.

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Fort Ocracoke Historical Marker

5.0(1 review)

0.6 mi

This monument stands in the parking lot opposite the ferry terminal, close to the water. It points…read moreout the history of the Confederate form that stood nearby and lists those who served in the Civil War from here. The etched stone marker reads, "The remnants of Fort Ocracoke are submerged in Ocracoke Inlet, 2 miles to the west - southwest, toward Portsmouth Inlet. The last of possibly four forts on Beacon Island, the mostly earthen Fort Ocracoke was constructed by mainland Confederate volunteers, beginning on May 20, 1861, the day North Carolina seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy. "After Union victories on Hatteras Island in August, 1861, the Confederates partly destroyed the fort and abandoned it without a fight. Mainland Union forces completed the destruction in September, 1861. Beacon Island was consumed by the waters of Ocracoke Inlet in the first half of the 20th century. The fort's remains were discovered and identified by members of surface interval diving boats in August 1998, acting on a tip from Ocracoke Charter Boat Captain, Donald Austin." On the rear, "In Memory of Veterans of the Civil War from Ocracoke & Portsmouth Islands" and it lists their names. The marker was erected by the Hyde County Heritage Trail. [Review 779 of 2025 - 4211 in North Carolina - 24339 overall]

Fort Ocracoke Historical Marker

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Fort Ocracoke Historical Marker

USRC Mercury

4.0(1 review)

0.5 mi

This marker overlooks the parking area for the Cedar Island Ferry and is one of the first things…read moreyou'll spot as you disembark. It points out the history of a War of 1812 warship. It has the same text on both sides. It reads, "USRC Mercury. U.S. Revenue Cutter in War of 1812. Patrolled Ocracoke Inlet. Escaped British ships offshore, 1813, to deliver warning of threat to New Bern." Online, there is more information. Commissioned in 1807 and based in New Bern, Mercury patrolled the waters around Ocracoke Inlet to enforce customs laws and protect against British incursions. In July 1813, when British forces launched a surprise attack on Ocracoke and Portsmouth, Mercury was the only American vessel to escape, carrying vital custom house documents and funds. Its crew raced to New Bern and delivered a timely warning that allowed North Carolina officials to prepare defenses, ultimately thwarting the British plan to invade the interior. The cutter continued its patrols throughout the war and later contributed to rebuilding coastal infrastructure and preventing smuggling. [Review 774 of 2025 - 4206 in North Carolina - 24334 overall]

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USRC Mercury Historical Marker, Ocracoke

Hope Plantation

5.0(1 review)

86.2 mi

Hope Plantation is in Windsor, NC. It was the home of former NC Governor David Stone…read more Hope Mansion and the King-Bazemore House can be toured with a docent on certain days and times so check the website before visiting to make sure it will be open. You start your visit and buy your ticket at the Roanoke-Chowan Heritage Center. It has restrooms, a gift shop and two rooms to view that provide background information about the property. You can either walk or drive to the houses as they are a distance away. I was not sure what to expect when I decided to visit Hope Plantation and did not expect that the tour would be as long as it was and so thorough. It is possible that my tour was longer than normal as I was very interested in all of the facts provided. I was very impressed with this property; the history and the restoration. I try my best to find the hidden gems to visit so was excited that I found another. Both houses are on the National Registry for Historic Places. The land of the plantation sits was from a land grant by King Charles II of England. It was to lure settlers from Virginia and was given to Francis and Elizabeth Hobson. Elizabeth inherited the property after her husband died and later married Zedekiah Stone. The story told is that Elizabeth missed her homeland Hope Parish so the property was named Hope. David Stone was given the Hope tract of land as a wedding present. He constructed the Hope Mansion. The house was completed in 1803. It is of a Georgian style with Federal Period influences. The enslaved community provided the labor to run the plantation. The highly skilled labor can be seen with the craftsmanship of the home. After David Stone died, his son sold the property. It changed owners many times. In 1960 though the property was deteriorated and Bertie Country residents worked to save the property. They created a historical association and raised the funds to purchase the property. Then went on to restoring the mansion through research. The outside was completed in 1969 and by 1972 the restoration was completed. The King-Bazemore House was relocated to the plantation in 1974 to be restored. It is an example of a colonial home and would be compared to the Hobson-Stone House that was destroyed when the mansion was built. I highly recommend visiting this property in Bertie County if you love history and historic properties. You will not be disappointed. These properties are amazing and the restorations impeccable.

From the owner: Restored home of former North Carolina Governor David Stone (1770-1818). Located four miles west of…read moreWindsor, NC, the plantation complex offers unique insights into the late 18th & 19th century rural life in eastern North Carolina and the South.

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Fort Macon Historic Site

4.7(38 reviews)

50.4 mi

Worth a visit. Beach, views, walking trails. We had a good…read moreafternoon wandering and shelling

Stopped in before going to the beach. History is not really my thing but I enjoyed walking around…read moreand looking at the display cases of items. Found a couple Christmas presents in the gift shop too.

Pass through between armory and soldiers room.

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Lt Robert Maynard

3.0(1 review)

0.5 mi

This marker overlooks the Ocracoke South Terminal. There is a large parking lot nearby and it is…read moreeasy to stop and read the marker. The same text on both sides, it reads, "Lt. Robert Maynard. Of the Royal Navy. Sent by Gov. Spotswood of Virginia, in the sloop "Ranger," killed the pirate Blackbeard off shore, 1718." In the fall of 1718, the notorious pirate Edward Teach--better known as Blackbeard--was killed in North Carolina waters by British Royal Navy Lieutenant Robert Maynard, marking one of the most legendary episodes of the Golden Age of Piracy. Blackbeard had used the shallow inlets of North Carolina's coast for refuge, prompting Virginia's Governor Alexander Spotswood to send two sloops, Ranger and Jane, manned by Royal Navy crews, to hunt him down. On November 22, Maynard's forces engaged Blackbeard's sloop, the Adventure, near Ocracoke Inlet, leading to a brutal hand-to-hand battle in which Maynard personally shot the pirate captain. It is marker number B-43 and it was erected in 1955 by the Archives and Highway Departments. [Review 849 of 2025 - 4279 in North Carolina - 24406 overall] [7/20]

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Lt. Robert Maynard Historical Marker, Ocracoke

Bodie Island Lighthouse

4.4(127 reviews)

54.5 mi

I've been obsessed with lighthouses since I was a child (an English thing, I guess?). Bodie…read more(Bow-dee NOT "body", I wish carpetbaggers would stop changing the pronunciations-two generations are now mispronouncing it) is not only beautiful, but has the additional museum and boardwalk to a scenic observation deck overlooking wetlands. I'm deathly afraid of heights so I can never go up, but I can appreciate the beauty and history from the ground.

After visiting the Hatteras Lighthouse and finding it all wrapped up in scaffolding, I was super…read moreexcited to get here to Bodie Island to find this one ready to photograph and visit. The Bodie Island Lighthouse is a striking black-and-white banded tower that has stood sentinel over the Outer Banks since 1872. This lighthouse is the third built in the area--the first, constructed in 1847, was abandoned due to a poor foundation, and the second, built in 1859, was destroyed during the Civil War by retreating Confederate troops. The current structure rises 156 feet and houses an original first-order Fresnel lens, casting light visible for up to 19 nautical miles. It was automated in 1940 and later transferred to the National Park Service in 1953. After extensive restoration, it opened to the public for climbing in 2013. Visitors can ascend its 219 steps for panoramic views of the surrounding marshes and Roanoke Sound. The lighthouse is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and remains one of the few tall brick lighthouses in the U.S. still equipped with its original lens. It was way too hot today to try climbing anything let alone that. I took my pictures and was more than satisfied. [Round number review 800 of 2025 - 4232 in North Carolina - 24360 overall]

Love the black and white effect

Bodie ("Body") Lighthouse

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Bodie Island Lighthouse

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

4.5(18 reviews)

58.0 mi

Not as tall as the "ocean" lighthouses on the Outer Banks such as Hatteras and Bodie Island,…read moreRoanoke Marshes protects traffic on the Shallowbag Bay and the Croaton Sound in Manteo. This building was completed in 2004 and is a faithful replica of the original 1877 lighthouse that was decommissioned in 1955 and ultimately lost during an attempted relocation. A number of screw piles (long iron pilings twisted into the soft, marshy bottom to offer stability in shallow waters) support the lighthouse, a square, cottage-style structure. The muddy terrain and shifting shoals of the Croatan Sound were especially well-suited to this design. The building has clapboard siding, a gabled roof, and a small lantern room in the middle of the roof ridge. Its small and welcoming size, which is more akin to a beach house than a soaring beacon, enhances its allure and accessibility. The lighthouse's interior is filled with marine antiques and informative displays that honor the area's nautical past. The building itself, which provides a tactile sense of coastal life and lighthouse keeping, is open for investigation, even if the spiral staircase leading to the lantern room is normally locked to the public. The beacon continues its tradition of directing vessels through the sound by using a contemporary LED system, having previously been driven by a fourth-order Fresnel lens. There is lots of street parking in this part of Manteo and lots to explore nearby. [Review 810 of 2025 - 4242 in North Carolina - 24370 overall]

This is a cute little light house right in Downtown Manteo. It's walkable from all the shops and…read moreyou can walk inside for a free mini education on the history of the lighthouse. The long deck walk was sturdy and can accommodate those less mobile and I believe, strollers. Grab a few photos prior to walking out to see it and enjoy! This is one of the reasons I love the Outer Banks! Nothing beats that breeze on your face and the sound of the water!