Cape Lookout National Seashore

Best known for its towering lighthouse covered in black and white diamonds, Cape Lookout National Seashore is a 56-mile stretch of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, spanning from Ocracoke Inlet to Beaufort Inlet. Three pristine barrier islands make up the national seashore – North Core Banks, South Core Banks and Shackleford Banks.

Accessible only by private boat or ferry, this incredible ribbon of sand hosts unparalleled fishing, shelling and a working lighthouse. The undeveloped seashore allows for true-to-nature camping, features a restored lighthouse keeper’s quarters, a boardwalk to the beach and regular ranger programs in the summer.

Ferry transportation to the islands is available from both Beaufort and Harkers Island. Call 252-728-7433 for pricing and reservations.

North and South Core Banks, both noted for wonderful shelling, clamming and surf fishing, offer rustic cabins as an alternative to camping from April through November. Many visitors come to the National Seashore to view the lighthouse, a landmark since 1859, and to enjoy the access to both a sound facing beach and an ocean facing beach.

The Light Station Visitor Center, found near the lighthouse ferry dock, houses exhibits on lighthouse history and early shipwrecks and rescues.

Across the water on picturesque Shackleford Banks, history comes in a four-legged model. Sit and enjoy the shoreline and keep your eyes peeled for the protected Shackleford Banks wild horses, which seemingly go about their day with no regard for their guests.

The seashore’s main visitor center is located on Harkers Island, which houses additional exhibits. An indoor theater offers a short film and a nature trail winds along the shore to an observation deck overlooking Core Sound. Public restrooms and a nearby picnic area are available and wheelchair accessible. For more information call 252-728-2250 or visit www.nps.gov/calo.

All visitors should remember this is a remote, natural territory with no food vendors, limited fresh water access and no lifeguards. Be prepared to bring in everything you may need during your visit and carry out all that bring in.