Ocracoke Lighthouse

The Ocracoke Lighthouse is North Carolina's oldest operating lighthouse. In 1798, a 54 foot wooden tower was built on the point of Ocracoke Inlet to mark the channel. Soon afterward, the inlet shifted, rendering the lighthouse ineffective. It was replaced by a light vessel in the inlet in 1820, but by 1822 this structure was rendered useless yet again by shifting sands, and Congress authorized the funding to build the present tower, which stands 75 feet tall and shines 14 miles out to sea. As a harbor light, it emits a constant fixed beam. Not open for climbing. Ocracoke Island is accessible by a free ferry. Free admission.

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• ocracoke
• lighthouse
• north
• carolina
• obx.com
• outer
• banks