First built in 1872, the Bodie Island Lighthouse was originally an isolated place—surrounded only by undeveloped and unpopulated land. The closest town was Manteo, located on neighboring Roanoke Island. To travel to the lighthouse, you had to go by boat.
Now, the 156-foot tall structure is much easier to find. Its horizontal black and white stripes stand out against the blue sky. Its beam stretches out to sea, visible for almost 19 miles. The powerful first-order Fresnel lens is still used today, and it’s one of the only original lenses still in operation. Although the tower is not open for visitors to climb, there is a Visitor Center (with displays and a bookstore) in the old lightkeeper’s quarters.
Bodie Island Lighthouse Visitor Information
Bodie Island Lighthouse is located within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Facilities:
A visitor's center in the old keeper's quarters features exhibits, an Eastern National Bookstore and is open year-round (closed Christmas day). Self-guided nature trail.
Visitor Center and Grounds Hours:
Open year-round. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. off-season
9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer.
(252)441-5711
Website
