Corolla Lighthouse Celebrates Birthday

Corolla Lighthouse Celebrates Birthday

One hundred and thirty five years ago on December 1, the Corolla Lighthouse lamp lit the night sky for the first time.

It still shines. The Corolla Lighthouse still protects mariners and welcomes all to the northern Outer Banks.

If you've ever visited the Corolla Lighthouse and climbed the 214 steps to the top you know the exhilaration and beauty that waits for you. The view will take your breath away ... once you catch it from the climb up.

If you have visited the Outer Banks and have not visited the Corolla Lighthouse, you should. The distinctive red brick sets it apart from all others.

There are other attractions nearby that will also vie for your attention. Check out the Whalehead Club that once was a grand hunting lodge. Then there is also the fabulous nature center nearby that shows our visitors the best of Outer Banks natural beauty.

The Corolla Lighthouse has seen much change over these 135 years. Keeping the light is such an interesting story. Think of the oil that had to be taken to the top - every few hours - to keep the flame. Think of the cold winters, the isolation. And yet there is so much mystery and romance woven in each story of any lighthouse.

Are you a lover of lighthouses? We have 3 to show off here on the Outer Banks. The Corolla Lighthouseis the most northern. Just south of Nags Head you can see the Bodie Island Light with black and white bands, and just go south on Hatteras Island to see the most famous spiral stripped lighthouse ... Hatteras.

Come to the Outer Banks anytime. We have such beauty to share.