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Trip Planner:   USA  /  North Carolina  /  North Carolina Coast  /  Outer Banks  /  Nags Head  /  Bodie Island Lighthouse

Bodie Island Lighthouse, Nags Head

4.6
#2 of 40 in Things to do in Nags Head
Lighthouse · Tourist Spot
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Bodie Island Lighthouse, which looks out over the Graveyard of the Atlantic, offers ranger-guided tours that talk about the history of the lighthouse and its environment. Originally built in 1847, the lighthouse was rebuilt twice in 25 years. The first rebuild addressed foundation issues. The second came after the Civil War when Confederate forces, fearing the structure would be used as an observation point, blew up the lighthouse in 1861. The structure currently at the location was built in 1872. It's a tough climb--with over 200 steps up 50 m (165 ft) in a narrow stairway. Schedule your tour in advance if possible; the attraction allows a limited number of advance bookings and a limited number of on-site bookings each day. Bodie Island Lighthouse is just one of the many highlights you can arrange to see using our , online itinerary creator Edition.
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Bodie Island Lighthouse reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
2,153 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Not that far off of Highway 12. It's worth the stop. Informative staff. A classic Outer Banks Lighthouse. Small gift shop with stuff you may actually want. 
    Not that far off of Highway 12. It's worth the stop. Informative staff. A classic Outer Banks Lighthouse. Small gift shop with stuff you may actually want.  more »
  • Went during the time where they were not allowing the lighthouse to be climbs but that didn't stop us from enjoying the area. Had a nice talk with the rangers and then went out to the walkway and... 
    Went during the time where they were not allowing the lighthouse to be climbs but that didn't stop us from enjoying the area. Had a nice talk with the rangers and then went out to the walkway and...  more »
Google
  • What a wonderful lighthouse to visit. This makes only the second time in my life to come here, but they've improved it since I last came here in the early 2000's. Gift shop prices were a little high but given that most of the proceeds go to maintaining the lighthouse and the grounds makes it worth it. The dock that leads out into the marsh makes for a great view too. While the lighthouse itself was closed for our visit, I was not disappointed. I would like to come visit again someday.
  • It was the anniversary of the lighthouse we as a family got to see it lit the old fashioned, original way of lighting the watchtower. Also, they had posters as a no-cost gift for attending the anniversary of its unique and priceless standing. Peaceful, easy to walk up the island strait, great for photography of all kinds. I had a local man kindly brief my family & I on the history of the lighthouse & why it was unique, just as a courtesy! :) Wonderful view & private!

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