Discover Bodie Island Lighthouse

Address: 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road, Nags Head, NC 27959, UNITED STATES
Phone: (252) 475-9501

About Bodie Island Lighthouse

South of Nags Head, the present-day Bodie Island Lighthouse is the third beacon constructed to guide mariners along the shoreline between Cape Hatteras and Currituck Beach. The first Bodie Island Lighthouse—Bodie is pronounced body—was erected in 1847 south of Oregon Inlet, in what is now called Pea Island. Because its foundation was inadequate, it was abandoned twelve years afterward.

A replacement lighthouse was built south of the inlet in 1859. In 1861, retreating Confederate troops blew it up, concerned that Union forces could use the structure for navigational advantage.

The Present Lighthouse

The current Bodie Island Lighthouse was finished in 1872 north of Oregon Inlet, close to the northern boundary of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Its recognizable horizontal black-and-white striping incorporates some materials left over from building the newest Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

The tower rises 150 feet and contains a first-order Fresnel lens. Its 160,000 candlepower light flashes 19 miles across the ocean. Currituck Beach Lighthouse is regarded as its architectural twin.

Visiting and Climbing

Visitors can climb Bodie Island Lighthouse at their own pace while enjoying views of Bodie Island, the Atlantic Ocean, and Pamlico Sound. Lighthouse climbing is offered in the summer months. Tickets must be purchased online, and certain safety restrictions apply.

Amenities

• Work w/Motorcoach Groups in Senior/Student Markets