Oak Island Lighthouse in Oak Island, Brunswick County, United States | Lighthouse

The Oak Island Lighthouse was completed in 1958 at a total cost of $110,000.00. The lights are 169 feet above the water. A misconception is that the Lighthouse itself is 169 feet tall. The actual structure is 148 feet tall, but it stands on a slight rise. Therefore, the height of the light above the water is 169 feet, and it is so reported on nautical charts. There is no spiral staircase as found in most older Lighthouses, but instead a series of ships ladders with a total of 131 steps to the lantern gallery level.



The Oak Island Lighthouse is one of 6 operating North Carolina, United States, Lighthouses that mark more than 301 miles of coast line!

About Oak Island Lighthouse Tours:

·       Our weekly seasonal tours are only to the 2nd level of the tower, NOT to the observation balcony at the top!

·        Children MUST be 7 years or older to enter the Lighthouse due to government safety regulations.

·       No more than 15 visitors will be allowed inside the tower at any time.

·       Visitors are requested not to wear flip-flops, high heels, open-toed or hard leather heels/soles. Sneakers are the preferred shoes.

·       Climbers are required to have both hands free for climbing due to the steepness of our steps.  No exceptions will be made!

·       Weather permitting (we can not allow visitors in the Lighthouse if there is lightning in the area)

·       There are no Restroom facilities on site

·        All tours are free of charge

Climb to the Top (year-round by appointment only):

·      Tours to the top of the tower and outside balcony must be scheduled ahead of time with the following conditions: 

o    Based on volunteer availability

o    Request needs to be submitted online at least 2 weeks prior to arrival.

o    Weather permitting (we can not climb if there is lightning in the area)

o    Will not be conducted during the normal weekly tour times

o    Everyone climbing the tower is required to sign waivers 

o    Parents are required to sign for those under the age of 16

o    Climbers must be at least 10 years old.

o    Sneakers or similar closed toe, rubber sole shoes are REQUIRED - absolutely NO sandals or flip-flops

o    Climbers are required to have both hands free for climbing due to the steepness of our steps.

·         Parking is limited so car pooling is encouraged.

·         Complete tour usually takes about 30-45 minutes.

·         There are no Restroom facilities on site.

·         Cameras/video recorders are encouraged but must be in a back/fanny-pack or fit in a pocket/on a belt (both hands must be free).