The History Behind the Oak Island Lighthouse

Local Feature | Oak Island, NC
Join our History Tour to see it in person!

Standing tall and proud at the eastern tip of Oak Island, the Oak Island Lighthouse is more than just a beacon for passing ships—it’s a beloved local landmark with a rich and fascinating history. If you’re visiting Oak Island and searching for things to do in Oak Island, NC, this iconic lighthouse is a must-see.

A Beacon of Innovation

Built in 1958, the Oak Island Lighthouse was one of the most advanced lighthouses of its time. Unlike traditional lighthouses made of brick or stone, this one was constructed using concrete poured in a continuous 3-day operation. It towers at 153 feet, but thanks to its location on a high dune, the light stands 169 feet above sea level, making it visible for up to 16 nautical miles offshore.

At the time of its completion, it held the title for the brightest light in the United States and the second-brightest in the world. Today, while its intensity has been reduced, it continues to serve as an active navigational aid.

Built for the Cape Fear Coast

The Oak Island Lighthouse was built to replace the Cape Fear Light on Bald Head Island, which was demolished in the 1950s. This new lighthouse was designed to help mariners safely navigate the shifting shoals and treacherous waters off the coast of southeastern North Carolina—particularly near the Cape Fear River and Frying Pan Shoals.

The tower’s bold black, white, and gray stripes were painted during construction and have never needed repainting—a testament to the durable materials and smart engineering used to build it.

Locally Loved and Preserved

Today, the lighthouse is maintained by the Friends of Oak Island Lighthouse (FOIL), a dedicated nonprofit that works tirelessly to preserve and promote this historic site. While you can explore the exterior year-round, guided interior tours to the top are available by reservation and offer unmatched panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and the nearby towns of Southport and Caswell Beach.

Experience the Lighthouse with Cycle-logical Tours

Want to see the Oak Island Lighthouse up close while learning more about the island’s coastal history? Join our Oak Island History E-Bike Tour with Cycle-logical Tours! Our guided ride includes a stop at the lighthouse, along with other fascinating landmarks like the Fort Caswell Rifle Range, Mary E. Morris Shipwreck Site, and more.

Our tours are perfect for visitors interested in:

Oak Island historical sites
Lighthouse tours in North Carolina
Guided e-bike tours in Oak Island
Things to do in Caswell Beach and Southport NC

Whether you’re a history buff, a lighthouse lover, or just looking for unique and memorable Oak Island activities, this stop is sure to inspire.

👉 Book your Oak Island History Tour now at cyclelogicaltours.com and ride through time with us!