Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Historic lighthouse and museum in Corolla, United States
Currituck Beach Lighthouse is a red brick coastal structure in North Carolina with unpainted exterior walls that distinguish it from neighboring beacons. The tower rises 162 feet (49 meters) high and contains a museum exploring the beacon's role in maritime navigation and its operation.
The beacon began operation in 1875 to illuminate the final unlit gap between Cape Henry and Bodie Island, where shipping faced severe risks. Its establishment addressed a critical need to improve navigation safety along this section of the North Carolina coast.
The keeper's residence on the grounds housed multiple lighthouse families over the years and tells the story of daily life for those who maintained this beacon.
Visitors can climb 220 steps to reach the observation gallery and enjoy coastal views. Wear sturdy shoes for the narrow spiral staircase, and plan your visit around clear weather for the best viewing experience.
The tower preserves its original first-order Fresnel lens, an advanced optical system that projects light patterns far across the water to guide ships. This 19th-century technology remains functional and offers visitors a glimpse into how maritime safety worked before electronic navigation.
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