Bodie Island Lighthouse

The black and white horizontal striped Bodie Island Lighthouse, off NC 12 between Nags Head and Oregon Inlet is the third lighthouse of that name to stand guard over this stretch of coastline. The first Bodie Island lighthouse underwent construction in 1847, but due to poor design and engineering, the tower ended up being a foot taller on one side than the other. Instead of attempting to salvage the 54-foot structure, plans were made for a second Bodie Island Lighthouse.

This second tower was begun in 1859 and upon completion, the white brick lighthouse stood almost 90 feet was fitted with a 3rd order Fresnel lens that cast a beam that could be seen for 15 miles. This lighthouse met its fate during the Civil War. Retreating Confederate troops feared that the advancing Union Army would use the Bodie Island Lighthouse as a lookout and consequently destroyed it.

Unlike its predecessors, the present day Bodie Island Lighthouse was built on the north side of Oregon Inlet. The 156-foot sentinel was placed in service in October 1872. It was automated in 1954. The 1st order Fresnel lens gives two flashes every 22 seconds that can be seen for 19 miles. The tower is not open for climbing. There is a visitor center and gift shop in the former double keeper's quarters as well as exhibits that tell the history of the lighthouse. The grounds are also a good place for bird watching.