Last Updated on September 9, 2024 by Nikole
If you’re planning a day trip to explore the picturesque lighthouses of North Carolina, you’re in for a treat.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting both the Oak Island Lighthouse and Old Baldy Lighthouse, two of the seven lighthouses located in North Carolina. I’m excited to share my experiences with you. From their rich histories to practical visiting tips, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your lighthouse adventure.
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Visiting Oak Island Lighthouse
Location: Oak Island Light House is located near Caswell Beach on Oak Island. More specifically, here is the address: 5600 E Beach Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465.
Website: Oak Island Lighthouse
History and Interesting Facts
The Oak Island Lighthouse, perched on the southern end of Oak Island, is a beacon with a storied past. It was first lit in 1958, making it one of the newer lighthouses along the North Carolina coast. Standing at a height of 169 feet, it’s notable for its modern design compared to the more historical lighthouses.
The lighthouse uses a powerful 1,000-watt bulb that shines with a distinctive green light, visible from up to 20 nautical miles away. Its light pattern is a unique characteristic: a flash every 15 seconds, which I was told is used only for decoration and show.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Oak Island Lighthouse is its robust construction, designed to withstand hurricanes and harsh coastal weather. It is still operational today, thanks to its modern engineering and regular maintenance.
Tickets and Tours
Visitors can enjoy a view of the lighthouse from the surrounding area, take a tour to the top, or take a tour of the first flight of stairs. All tours to Oak Island Light House are offered year-round.
To take a tour to the top of Oak Island Lighthouse, you must make reservations in advance. This free tour can take around 35-45 minutes and guides you up 131 steep ladder-like steps.
Morning non-reservation tours take you up the first flight of stairs (12 steep steps) and takes around 15 to 20 minutes to complete. This tour only takes place in the morning, but it’s free of charge.
Top Tours: Free with reservations
Brief Tour: Free during the morning
My Experience
During my visit, I took advantage of the short free tour that’s offered in the morning time. This tour is quite brief but provides a glimpse into the lighthouse’s operations and its history.
The Oak Island Light House tour takes you up a unique single flight of ship ladder stairs to a viewing platform where you can appreciate the lighthouse up close. The guide shared interesting tidbits about the lighthouse’s role in navigation, information about the lightbulb’s history, and history lessons about the surrounding area.
It was a brief but enriching experience, offering a sense of the lighthouse’s significance without needing a lengthy commitment.
My only problem was the echo once you entered the lighthouse. It was hard to hear the speaker because the echo was fairly annoying. But I caught enough to learn about the history of the lighthouse.
Visiting Old Baldy Lighthouse
Location: Old Baldy Light House is located on Baldy Island right off of Oak Island’s coastline and shares a 10-acre lot with Smith Island Museum. 101 Lighthouse Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461
Website: Old Baldy Lighthouse
To reach Old Baldy, you’ll need to take a ferry from the mainland. The ferry departs from Deep Point Marina in Southport.
The ride is about 20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the coastal waters.
The ferry fare is approximately $23 for adults and $11 for children. Be sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time to plan your trip.
History and Interesting Facts
Old Baldy, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, was first lit in 1817. Standing at just 90 feet tall, it might be shorter than some other lighthouses, but its historical significance is immense.
Made from brick and covered in whitewashed plaster, Old Baldy’s design reflects the classic lighthouse style of the early 19th century.
The lighthouse originally used a simple oil lamp but has since been updated. Today, it no longer operates as a navigational aid but is preserved as a historical monument.
The light was discontinued in 1935, and the lighthouse now serves as a museum and a symbol of the island’s maritime history.
Tickets and Tours
To visit Old Baldy, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for the tour.
The tickets are priced at around $8 for adults and $4 for children.
Tours are available during the day and include a climb up the 108 wooden stairs to the top of the lighthouse. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through the Old Baldy Lighthouse website.
My Experience
Climbing Old Baldy was a memorable part of my trip. The 108 steps are quite steep and narrow, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.
On a hot day, it can get pretty warm inside the lighthouse, so wear comfortable clothing and stay hydrated.
The climb is definitely worth it. Once at the top, the panoramic view of Bald Head Island and the surrounding waters is absolutely breathtaking.
From the top, you can see the pristine beaches, lush maritime forests, and the distant horizon—a perfect reward for your efforts. The historical context and the view made the climb a highlight of my trip.
In Conclusion
Visiting Oak Island Lighthouse and Old Baldy Lighthouse offers a blend of modern and historical maritime experiences. Whether you’re exploring the contemporary features of Oak Island Lighthouse or climbing the historic stairs of Old Baldy, both lighthouses provide unique insights into North Carolina’s rich maritime heritage.
