The Little Lighthouse that Could…

Be Sure to Visit Bodie Island Lighthouse during Your Trip to the Outer Banks

Nothing expresses the adventure and allure of the sea like lighthouses. Millions of people across the world love these unique structures, both for their architectural beauty and the way they evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia. Along North Carolina’s Outer Banks you’ll find one of the best preserved examples of these magnificent structures. We’re talking about the Bodie Island lighthouse, pronounced like “body.”

Like Rocky Balboa from the famous boxing movies, this lighthouse has been down for the count more than once during its long history. But it has always risen stronger and more magnificent than it was before. Today it’s owned by the National Park Service, which maintains the impressive 1872 structure for visitors to see and enjoy.

The original Bodie Island lighthouse was constructed in 1847 for a cost of $5000. Unfortunately, structural deficiencies caused it to collapse by 1859. Congress authorized a $25,000 grant in 1859 to build the second version. Tragically, it survived only until 1861, when retreating Confederate troops blew it up to prevent it from falling into Union hands.

Dire need for a functional lighthouse in the area led to the construction of the third and final version in 1871. This incarnation is the one that still stands to this day. In 1953 the government transferred management of the property to the National Park Service. Since then, Bodie Island lighthouse has served a new purpose: to remind visitors of the area’s fascinating maritime history.

Bodie Island lighthouse stands 165 feet tall. It boasts distinctive white and black stripes that make it distinctly visible on even the darkest nights. Beside the lighthouse stands the keeper’s quarters. Cape Hatteras lighthouse, Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore gift shop are but a short distance away. Many people visit both sites during their Outer Banks getaway.

A trip to Bodie Island lighthouse is an essential part of any visit to the North Carolina coast. You’re welcome to tour the grounds, take plenty of pictures, and a stroll alongside the shore and enjoy the peaceful setting. Inside the lighthouse is a winding 214 step staircase that leads to the lantern deck, where the keeper once tended the magnificent light that warned sailors away from the shore’s treacherous rocks. The park service offers seasonal tours of the lighthouse interior. Visit the seashore’s official website for schedules and other information.

The lighthouse’s grounds are less visited than other Outer Banks sites, so you needn’t worry about crowds or noise ruining your experience. With its rich heritage and spectacular beauty, Bodie Island lighthouse is well worth taking the time to visit.

Whether you get to the Outer Banks every week or only once in a lifetime, one thing is for sure: you and your party will need a place to spend the night. Why take a chance on noisy hotels or amateur innkeepers when our comfortable, private vacation properties are so affordable? Take a moment to browse our site and you’ll see how much value they offer. We’ll see you soon along the Outer Banks.