North Carolina route stop · Outer Banks

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S.

Featured driveOuter Banks Scenic Byway
StateNorth Carolina
Drive length~140 miles
Trip time1–2 days

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is one of the places Roamward flags on the Outer Banks Scenic Byway because it gives the drive its texture: the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S.. Use it as a planned pull-over instead of letting the route become a blur between towns.

How it fits the drive

The Outer Banks runs Nags Head → Ocracoke, NC. Barrier islands, lighthouses, and ferries.

Nearby route stops

  • Pea Island Refugewild beaches and birding on a protected stretch (Outer Banks)
  • Ocracoke ferrythe free ride to the island with no bridge (Outer Banks)

Conditions, access, parking, fees, weather, and seasonal closures can change quickly on scenic routes. Check the managing agency or local visitor information before committing to a side stop.

Build a trip around Outer Banks stops like this.

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