It is one of the few remaining major coastal lighthouses in the United States that retains its original first-order Fresnel lens.
The lighthouse was intentionally left unpainted because the local brick was of high quality and intended to show the texture of the masonry.
The beacon of the lighthouse is visible for up to 18 nautical miles out at sea.
The 220 steps are cast-iron, featuring a spiral design that is characteristic of 19th-century lighthouse engineering.
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse was the last of the major Outer Banks lighthouses to be constructed.
Its light flashes a unique signal: 3 seconds on, 3 seconds off, 3 seconds on, 21 seconds off.
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse is a 162-foot-tall red brick structure situated on the northern Outer Banks of North Carolina. Unlike many other lighthouses on the coast, the exterior bricks were left unpainted to highlight the craftsmanship of the masonry. It was built in 1875 to bridge the final gap in the string of lighthouses between Cape Henry and Bodie Island. Visitors can climb 220 steps to the gallery deck for a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound. The original first-order Fresnel lens is still in active use today, flashing a distinctive pattern to assist mariners. The site is managed by the Outer Banks Conservationists, a non-profit organization dedicated to its preservation. The base of the lighthouse houses a museum shop and historical displays documenting the life of past keepers.
From the park grounds directly in front of the lighthouse looking upward to capture the contrast of the red brick against the sky.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the gallery deck is closed during high winds or lightning storms.
Carry water with you, as the climb involves a steep, high-temperature spiral staircase.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the iron steps can be slippery or warm.
Attempting the climb if you have significant knee, back, or heart conditions; the steep stairs are physically demanding.
Closed for the winter season; usually reopens for daily visitors in late spring through late autumn.
No food or drink allowed inside the tower; visitors must be able to climb the stairs unassisted.
