North Carolina Lighthouse Tours

Historic Lighthouses have fascinated people for centuries. Drawing in crowds of people just hoping to catch a glimpse of the past. They have been used as a beacon of light to warn mariners where the ocean meets the shoreline since the early 1700's. They were useful as a guiding light to guide weary sailors home and back to their families after spending months at sea. They stand proud as a source of history and days gone by. Lighthouses attract thousands of visitors every year. And for the people who hold a fascination for these monumental symbols of life and history, the North and South Carolina coastlines are filled with interesting maritime things to do and see.

Such as the Bald Head Island Lighthouse, which is located on the fourteen mile long Baldhead Island. Those who are brave enough to visit this lighthouse can climb its 112 wooden steps to the top for an amazing view of the surrounding area. The lighthouse also houses the Smith Island Museum of History and has many original artifacts and documents portraying the history of this lighthouse. Which is a small piece of history that sits on Baldhead Island and once guided the boys who ride the oceans safely home. If you plan to visit this area remember that there are only two ways to access the island; by privately owned passenger ferry or by boat. And once you are on the island the only form of transportation you will see are bicycles, trams, golf carts or people walking, there are no cars. Other sights you may be interested in visiting while you are here include the Lifesaving Station Boathouse. This was once used by boats bringing medical supplies into the lifesaving station, but is now a privately owned residence. And there are also three cottages known as Cap'n Charlie's Station which are a fundamental piece of history and are listed on the National Register Of Historic Places. These are now used as rental cottages for those who choose to visit this quiet, peaceful island that is surrounded by history. The Oak Island Lighthouse near Bald Head Island, was originally built to alleviate the dangers brought on by a higher amount of sea traffic in the area. This lighthouse is the last manually operated lighthouse in the world. It is switched on each evening 30 minutes before sunset and switched off in the morning a little past sunrise. The Coast Guard is in charge of maintaining the tower and assigns someone to climb the 134 steps to the top every week to inspect the lights. Tours of this lighthouse are open to the public for a small fee. To schedule your guided tour call 1-910-278-0113. Other points of interest for this area would include The Southport Maritime Museum which houses many artifacts and nautical memorabilia from the Lower Cape Fear area. You can take a self guided tour or ask for a tour guide who will be glad to assist you for a minimal fee.

Price Creek Lighthouse which was built in 1849 is a very distinct spot for visitors and guests who are interested in maritime history. Even though this lighthouse is old and has been damaged several times during the Civil War and through various hurricanes which came through the area, it's still in fairly good condition considering its been abandoned for almost a century. This lighthouse is privately owned and is not open for tours or guests but it can be seen from a distance from the ferries in the area. The Ocracoke Lighthouse is on a sixteen mile barrier island that was once made famous by Blackbeard the Pirate, who used this tiny island as his hideout. The U.S. Coast Guard also owns this lighthouse. Visitors are always welcome to walk around the grounds and see the outbuildings and the tower but they are not open to tours. Make sure and see everything that Ocracoke Island has to offer while you are here. This historic district includes the lighthouse, a Coast Guard station, many graves of British Navy sailors who were killed in the war and many other historic buildings and sites. This is a small fishing community where you will be treated to some old time southern hospitality. Many of the 600 residents own the various gift shops, bed and breakfast Inns, seafood restaurants and fishing charters that are available for the enjoyment of visitors and guests. To get more information on these areas of historic interest in the North Carolina area visit www.outerbanks.com and www.nclighthouses.com. `