Bodie Island Lighthouse

Tall and slim, with bold black alternating with stark white circular stripes the 156-foot Bodie Island Lighthouse sits not on an island at all; it is located on the soundside of Highway 12, between Nags Head and Oregon Inlet. It was completed in 1872, the third lighthouse built in this area. The first was destroyed by a storm and the second by war.

For over 200 years, many a vessel encountered the huge waves, strong currents and high winds offshore near Bodie Island, and many met their fate along that stretch of the Atlantic.

The lighthouse is not open to the public, but a visitor center in an old keeper's quarters features exhibits. Nearby marshes offer a self-guided nature trail.


Related pages:
Outer Banks Lighthouses

Bodie Island Marsh

Birding