Have you ever been to the Oak Island Lighthouse? We set ourselves up on Caswell Beach, right across from it, once or twice a year.
It’s the newest lighthouse in North Carolina—and probably the easiest to reach. You can just about park in its shadow. And it might be Belle’s favorite beach spot. Rough waves? There aren’t any. Shrimp boats trawling off in the distance? You bet.
It’s a charming little spot, even if it’s not my favorite lighthouse. I’ve always had a soft spot for the older ones along our coast, with their weathered brick and wild stories. But I can’t help but admire how different Oak Island is.
Built in 1958, it doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. The concrete tower, striped in bold bands of black, white, and gray, is sleek and modern—practical, even a little no-nonsense. And unlike many of its historic cousins, it still does its job, guiding ships safely past Frying Pan Shoals.
Even though it’s fairly modern, Oak Island Lighthouse earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. It may not have centuries-old legends or pirate tales, but its story is remarkable in its own right. For more than sixty years, it has stood tall through storms and rough seas, welcoming travelers home and keeping sailors safe along the coast.
Visiting the lighthouse is one of North Carolina’s simple joys. You can stroll the grounds, snap a few photos, and even take a dip in the Atlantic. Whether you’re a lighthouse enthusiast or just looking for a quiet, scenic spot on the coast, Oak Island Lighthouse is an Old North State treasure that’s still shining bright.
