: Black & white patterned tower of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands against a blue & white cloud f

National Seashore

Cape Lookout National Seashore

visit on nps.gov

Info

A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages--there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches.

Park Photos

: Black & white patterned tower of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands against a blue & white cloud f
1 of 7

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is still an active aid-to-navigation, warning ships of the nearby shoals. Climbing to up to see the view from the gallery level, 14 stories above the ground, is also a popular activity by visitors during the summer.

Credit: NPS photo

: Black & white patterned tower of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands against a blue & white cloud f
A bird with orange bill and orange legs runs along the tide line. Waves in the background
A red light illuminates a tent on the sand, with a star filled sky behind it.
A seashell lays in the sand, with the sun setting in the background.
A sand covered turtles flings sand on the beach while laying eggs.
A Jeep drives on the sand in between grass covered dunes.
A angler sits in a chair, with two fishing poles in the sand. Lighthouse in background.

Activities

Boating
Fishing
Saltwater Fishing
Paddling
Canoeing
Kayaking
Swimming
Saltwater Swimming
Auto and ATV
ATV Off-Roading
Auto Off-Roading
Camping
Backcountry Camping
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Astronomy
Stargazing
Wildlife Watching
Hunting and Gathering
Hunting
Junior Ranger Program
Bookstore and Park Store
Shopping

Operating Hours

Cape Lookout National Seashore has 3 offshore barrier islands that are open 24 hours and 365 days a year (weather permitting). Operating hours for visitor centers and other services will vary throughout the year.

DayHours
Friday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Sunday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Saturday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Wednesday
All Day

Weather info

Spring: Temperatures generally range from 50 F to 70+ F. Rain & wind are common Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F with high humidity (80-90%). Average wind speed is 10-15 mph. Be prepared with plenty of water. With little shade on the islands, an umbrella to provide shade from the sun is a good idea. Fall: Temperatures usually range from the high 70 F to the upper 40 F. Winter: Temperatures usually range from 50 F - 32 F. Winds can be strong. Dress in layers.

Events