The main Harkers Island Visitor Center is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM from April to November, and Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM from December to March. The Light Station Visitor Center on South Core Banks is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM from mid-March to October.
There is no entrance fee at Cape Lookout National Seashore; it is free to visit year-round.
From Beaufort, follow US 70 EAST to Seashore Drive, then turn left onto Morris Marina Road for ferry access to pristine barrier islands.
At Cape Lookout National Seashore, long-term parking is available in designated areas on North and South Core Banks for cars, RVs, and motorcycles. Overnight parking requires a Special Use Permit with a fee. Short-term parking is available near visitor centers and ferry terminals, with possible fees for parking or transportation.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Cape Lookout National Seashore, a 56-mile stretch of pristine beaches along North Carolina’s coastal islands, is a haven for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty and rich historical significance. Accessible only by boat, this barrier island chain offers an unparalleled experience of solitude and connection with nature. The beaches, dotted with large unbroken conch shells, are a treasure trove for shell collectors and beachcombers.
The landscape is characterized by vast expanses of sand dunes, where families and shore fishermen often set up camp, and the free-roaming Shackleford Banks wild horse herd grazes freely. The area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with protected species such as piping plovers, American oystercatchers, sea turtles, and black skimmers calling this place home.
The Cape Lookout Lighthouse, standing tall at 163 feet, is a historic beacon that has protected maritime commerce since the mid-1800s. Nearby, Portsmouth Village and Cape Lookout Village offer insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage, with historic districts that highlight the lives of coastal communities.
Seasonal changes bring different hues to the landscape; spring blooms with seabeach amaranth, while autumn paints the skies with vibrant sunsets. Summer evenings are perfect for stargazing, as the area is one of the darkest publicly accessible spots on the East Coast.
Visitors can engage in various activities such as fishing, hiking, and birding. Local outfitters offer boat tours and fishing trips, while ranger-led programs provide in-depth knowledge of the area’s ecological and geological processes. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, nearby towns like Beaufort and Harkers Island offer artisan shops, seafood restaurants, and a glimpse into traditional coastal living.
Cape Lookout National Seashore is more than just a destination; it is an immersive experience that combines natural beauty, historical depth, and a unique sense of place that beckons travelers to explore and appreciate its untouched charm.
- Area (mi²)
- 44
- Annual visitors
- 542 000
- Established year
- 1966
Top 3 Facts about Cape Lookout National Seashore
The lighthouse, standing 163 feet tall, uses a third-order Fresnel lens to project a beam of light visible up to 19 miles away, flashing every 15 seconds with direction-dependent color changes.
In this coastal paradise, wild horses roam free on Shackleford Banks, while Loggerhead sea turtles nest on the beaches. The skies are filled with terns, egrets, black skimmers, and piping plovers. Marine mammals and dolphins inhabit the waters, alongside four species of sea turtles. Freshwater habitats support tree frogs and Fowler’s toads, and the salt marshes are home to diamond-back terrapins. Anglers can catch Spanish mackerels, king mackerels, and red drum in the ocean-facing surf, making this a haven for both wildlife enthusiasts and seasoned anglers.
Along a 56-mile stretch of silken beaches, the barrier islands feature wide, bare shores with low dunes covered by scattered grasses and flat grasslands bordered by dense vegetation. The waters are constantly reshaped by wind, waves, and currents, creating an ever-changing landscape. At night, the skies reveal exceptional darkness, with a zenith brightness of 21.4 magnitudes/arcsecond, making it a surreal destination under the stars.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in spring or fall to avoid heat. Take the 15-minute ferry from Harkers Island. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. Explore pristine beaches, shell at Cape Point, and surf or kiteboard. Rest often on the sandy, sometimes rocky terrain. Limited food options on site.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable coastal weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a first-aid kit, map, headlamp, and plenty of water. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and bear-resistant containers. Adjust gear according to the number of days and season.
Respect Wildlife
Keep distance from nesting birds and sea turtles, especially April to August. Avoid feeding or harassing wildlife. Respect protected zones and wild horses. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather conditions and trail hazards. Swim at lifeguarded beaches, avoid rough seas and extreme weather. Contact park authorities at 911 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and gentle breezes make for ideal exploration. Witness the Crystal Coast Star Party in April, with starlight cruises and public stargazing. Perfect time for beach activities, hiking, and spotting wild horses before the summer heat.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid weather, ideal for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. From mid-May to mid-September, climb the 1859 lighthouse and enjoy the Horse Sense and Survival Tour amidst wild horses and historic Portsmouth Village. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit in fall, from September to November, when temperatures range from 60 to 80°F. Enjoy mild weather and special events like National Public Lands Day in September. Witness the wild horses of Shackleford Banks in a serene autumn setting. Ideal for a tranquil and enriching getaway.
Winter months (December to April) bring crisp temperatures (40s-50s°F) and fewer crowds. Ideal for nature trails, birdwatching, and serene beaches, but visitor centers are closed. A tranquil, off-season escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Cape Lookout National Seashore has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Its distinctive black-and-white diamond pattern and its isolated location accessible only by boat make it a unique landmark.
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Pets are allowed on the islands but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Owners must remove all pet waste.
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Primitive beach camping is allowed on North Core Banks, South Core Banks, and Shackleford Banks with no designated sites, permits required.
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Wild horses on Shackleford Banks, sea turtles, dolphins, shorebirds, and occasionally whales offshore.
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Beaufort, Morehead City, and Harkers Island provide lodging, restaurants, supplies, and ferry services.