Discover Cape Lookout
Residents of the Beau Coast West community of beautiful coastal new homes in Beaufort NC are never short on things to do. Both the community and the greater Crystal Coast offer outstanding nature, history, entertainment, and more. One such place is Cape Lookout, which is just a short boat ride away. Here you can enjoy this pristine stretch of coastline, as well as various activities that are the essence of coastal Carolina living.
Spanning more than 56 miles of undeveloped shoreline, Cape Lookout National Seashore is a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors. Its unspoiled beaches are perfect for sunbathing, shelling, and fishing. The area is also renowned for its excellent bird-watching opportunities, with a variety of migratory birds making a seasonal stopover. For those who love the water, kayaking and paddleboarding offer unique ways to explore the coastline as well as the waters and the diverse marine life.
No visit to Cape Lookout is complete without seeing the iconic Cape Lookout Lighthouse, a symbol of the region’s maritime heritage. Standing 163-feet tall with its distinctive black and white diamond pattern, this lighthouse has been guiding mariners since 1859. As well as the lighthouse, be sure to check out the Lighthouse Keeper’s House. Built in 1873, today, the bottom part of the house operates as a museum staffed by volunteers. The Keeper’s Quarters is open from mid-March to the end of October. The Lighthouse is currently closed to climbing due to restoration, but you can still enjoy the surrounding scenery.
The nearby Cape Lookout Village Historic District offers a glimpse into the past with restored buildings that tell the story of the area’s rich history. From the Keeper’s Quarters to the Life-Saving Station, these sites provide a tangible connection to the lives of those who once called this remote seashore home.
For Beaufort residents planning a trip, it’s best to check the ferry schedules in advance, as Cape Lookout is only accessible by boat, whether private boat or ferry. Bringing along essentials such as sunscreen, water, and snacks is advisable since the seashore is largely undeveloped. There are also no paved roads, concession stands, bathhouses, camp stores or trash cans along the seashore, so plan accordingly to keep the island pristine. Except for the ferry landing areas, the islands are undeveloped and wild.
Cape Lookout National Seashore and its lighthouse offer a perfect day trip for Beaufort locals. The proximity is yet another reason why people are choosing the Beau Coast West new homes in Beaufort NC. Contact us today to learn more about the homes available and how the community makes it so easy to enjoy our beautiful North Carolina coast.
