A typical beach vacation involves renting a house or condo and stepping out onto the sand right outside your door. While visiting the Crystal Coast, there is so much more to do than sit on the beach near your rental. I present to you what is known as the "Diamond Lady" of the coast: Cape Lookout lighthouse.
A visit to this lighthouse is definitely a day trip to consider while visiting the beach. To get there a boat ride is in order. The island will offer some of the most pristine and untouched beaches in the area. Climbing the lighthouse itself is an adventure and the view from the top is spectacular.
Island Express Ferry Service has the National Park Service contract to act as the official ferry to the island. There are also numerous private boat companies that will also take you to Cape Lookout for a half day or full day excursion. The Island Express Ferry leaves from both Beaufort or Harkers Island, with Harkers Island being a longer drive from the Crystal Coast but a shorter boat ride to the cape. Beaufort will be a longer boat journey and more expensive. During the summer the ferry departs on the half hour. Depending on where you are staying on the Crystal Coast, you will most likely be closer to the Beaufort departure site.
The ferry itself will take you past many other undeveloped islands and will also drop you at one to explore. Check out the ferry schedule when planing your trip. Once you arrive at Cape Lookout, you will arrive at a dock that will lead you to a small gift shop and bathhouse. At the shop you can buy tickets to climb the lighthouse. Children must be 44 inches tall to climb. Small groups will climb at once with park staff at the bottom and top of the stairs. Be sure to bring proper footwear. The stairway is circular with low light and air flow. Once at the top, you will climb through a small door out onto the viewing deck that circles the top for a 360 degree view. It is unforgettable.
After the climb, be sure to take the time to explore the beaches on the island. The water is so clear and there are shells everywhere. A trip to the lighthouse would not be complete without some beach time.
Be sure to bring proper footwear if climbing the lighthouse, sunscreen as there is little shade, a towel, camera, water and snacks.
Here are some websites for more information:
National Park Service website - Cape Lookout
Island Express Ferry Service
View of the lighthouse from the beach.
Old lighthouse keepers quarters.
View of dock, gift shop, bathhouse and boardwalks from the top.
Outstanding views.
View from the ferry approaching Cape Lookout.
View from the ferry.
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