10/20/2026
Lighthouse lovers, hear me out: climbing 131 steps sounds a whole lot better when it’s NOT summer in North Carolina. 😂
Oak Island Lighthouse offers climbs to the top year-round, and cooler weather feels like a good reason to go! I’ll take a chilly morning over summer heat for that climb.
And since I know how much y’all love Southport… why not make a day of it?
Climb the lighthouse, then head to Southport for wandering. Browse the little shops and art galleries, walk past those beautiful old homes under the live oaks, and claim a waterfront swing to watch the boats go by.
A lighthouse view AND a Southport afternoon? That’s my kind of off-season beach day. ❤️
A few things to know before making plans:
• October–April: Climbs are offered Wednesdays and Saturdays.
• May–September: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.
• Morning only: Tours start at 9:30, with 10:15 and 11:00 added as earlier tours fill.
• Ages 9 and up for the climb to the top.
• Free, but reservations are required. Plan about two weeks ahead in the off-season; holidays, school breaks and summer can need six weeks or more.
*****These are steep, ship-style stairs leading to an outdoor balcony, so wear sneakers and keep both hands free. No sandals, flip-flops or Crocs. The full tour takes about 30–45 minutes.
Request your climb by emailing oakislandlighthouse@gmail .com with your name, number of climbers, preferred date and phone number.
Tours depend on weather and volunteer availability, and aren’t offered on major holidays.
Now help me finish planning this day: where are we eating lunch in Southport? 👇
