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National Seashore

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Park ClosureFeb 12, 2026

Passenger Ferry Dock Closed

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: Black & white patterned tower of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands against a blue & white cloud f

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is still an active aid-to-navigation, warning ships of the nearby shoals. Climbing to up to see the view from the gallery level, 14 stories above the ground, is also a popular activity by visitors during the summer.

Photo: NPS photo

About

A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages--there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches.

Activities

Auto and ATVATV Off-RoadingAuto Off-RoadingAstronomyStargazingBoatingCampingBackcountry CampingCanoe or Kayak CampingFishingSaltwater FishingHunting and GatheringHunting
Paddling
Canoeing
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Kayaking
Junior Ranger Program
Swimming
Saltwater Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store

Directions

Cape Lookout National Seashore can be reached without taking a ferry: the Visitor Center on Harkers Island, NC. Please note: the park mailing address does not bring you to the Harkers Island Visitor Center parking lot. If you are using a GPS device - use the parking lot coordinates (34.68494, -74.52725) or the following "address" which approximates the location of the parking lot entrance: 1800 Island Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531

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Weather

Spring: Temperatures generally range from 50 F to 70+ F. Rain & wind are common Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F with high humidity (80-90%). Average wind speed is 10-15 mph. Be prepared with plenty of water. With little shade on the islands, an umbrella to provide shade from the sun is a good idea. Fall: Temperatures usually range from the high 70 F to the upper 40 F. Winter: Temperatures usually range from 50 F - 32 F. Winds can be strong. Dress in layers.

News

Tourism to Cape Lookout National Seashore Contributes $32,033,000 to Local Economy
Sep 30, 2025

Tourism to Cape Lookout National Seashore Contributes $32,033,000 to Local Economy

A new National Park Service report shows that 552,786 visitors to Cape Lookout National Seashore in 2024 spent $28,925,000 in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $32,033,000.