According to the National Park Service, "The most recent restoration of the lighthouse itself was completed in 2013. Still a functioning navigational aid, the tower is open seasonally for public tours." Until the last decade, only lighthouse keepers, family members, and a few others have been allowed to climb the 214 steps, or 156 feet, to the top.
When it was completed in 1872, the Bodie Island Lighthouse warned sailors along a stretch of the Outer Banks that had been dark since an earlier lighthouse was destroyed during the Civil War. Its light was magnified by a Fresnel lens, made of 344 glass prisms that were removed during the restoration and cleaned, and now have been reassembled atop the 170-foot tower.
Tips for Climbing the Bodie Island Lighthouse
The Seaside Vacations team was excited to climb the Bodie Island Lighthouse on opening! Here are some of the top tips for climbing Bodie Island as well as many of the other beautiful lighthouses on the Outer Banks.
1. Get your tickets in advance.
Tours fill up quickly so get your tickets in advance. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and only 22 people are allowed on each tour.
2. Wear tennis shoes.
The Bodie Island website prohibits bare feet, flips flops, and heels over 1 ½ inches high.
3. Bring a bottle of water.
Depending on when you visit the lighthouse, it’s probably a good idea to bring along some water to quench your thirst as you climb all 214 steps. Note: only bottled water is allowed inside the lighthouse.
4. Don't forget your camera!
After climbing 214 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the Outer Banks. From the Atlantic Ocean on the east to the Pamlico Sound on the west, you’ll want to capture the breathtaking scenery.
5. Be prepared for wind.
When you're 156 feet up in the air, and on the Outer Banks, there's a good chance it will be windy. Note: the park ranger will go out on the balcony first and test the wind speed. As long as it's blowing less than 35 knots, you'll be able to step out onto the balcony.
6. Leave the littlest ones at the bottom.
You must be at least 42 inches tall to climb Bodie Island Lighthouse. Children under 12 must be escorted by a person at least 16 years old.
7. Immerse yourself.
A friendly park ranger guides each tour – stopping on several landings as you climb to the top – teaching you about the history of the lighthouse, the Graveyard of the Atlantic, stories about life as a lighthouse keeper, and more.
Bodie Lighthouse Photos
Why Visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse?
Now that you know some facts and tips on how to climb the Bodie Island Lighthouse, it’s time to make the trip and visit this majestic landmark for yourself. We promise you won’t regret it! Being able to climb this majestic lighthouse is truly a memorable experience. We encourage our visitors to spend part of their vacation climbing to the top of this legendary Outer Banks landmark. You’ll get a remarkable view of the Outer Banks that most visitors will never experience.
Guided tours are offered at the Bodie Island Lighthouse at set intervals, on a daily basis. For more information, including tour times and admission price, please visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse website https://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/bils.htm.
Seaside Vacations offers many Outer Banks vacation homes within a short drive to Bodie Island Lighthouse in Nags Head and Hatteras Island.
PLAN YOUR NEXT OBX GETAWAY TODAY!
Book your stay today in one of our cozy vacation rentals and explore all the best and brightest that the Outer Banks has to offer. Give our wonderful Guest Services Team a call today at (866) 884-0267 or take a look at our available rentals to get started planning your next historic adventure to the Outer Banks.
And don't forget about our layaway plan, which makes booking your dream vacation easier than ever. So don't wait. We're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals year round and we're excited to help you create memories to last a lifetime. We're here to help make your OBX vacation fun, exciting, and hassle-free. Give us a call today! Be sure to provide accurate information and make any necessary payments.
FIND THE PERFECT VACATION HOME BY CATEGORY:
- Dog-Friendly Rentals
- Oceanfront Rentals
- Rentals with a Private Pool
- New to Seaside
- Group Travel and Event Homes
- Any Day Stays
Or by City:
Explore our website and give us a call to help kick-start your unforgettable Outer Banks vacation today. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok to stay up to date on all of our specials, new & featured homes, and tips & tricks for making the most of your next Outer Banks vacation.
We’ll see you at the beach.
