Cape Lookout National Seashore
NC
Park Alerts (1)
About Cape Lookout National Seashore
A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages--there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches.
Things To Do
Night Skies at Cape Lookout
Cape Lookout National Seashore is a sanctuary for natural darkness on the East coast of the United States. Take this chance to stargaze, and experience the half of the park that many of us miss - nighttime.
Kayak or Canoe Core Sound and Back Sound
The islands of this North Carolina park lie between two and three miles from the mainland. At this distance, even novice paddlers can cross the open waters of Core Sound and Back Sound under good conditions. While everyone can enjoy exploring the marshes and shallow waters of the sounds, the more ambitious kayakers can continue out from the inlets into the surf.
Available Activities
Weather
Spring: Temperatures generally range from 50 F to 70+ F. Rain & wind are common Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F with high humidity (80-90%). Average wind speed is 10-15 mph.
Be prepared with plenty of water. With little shade on the islands, an umbrella to provide shade from the sun is a good idea. Fall: Temperatures usually range from the high 70 F to the upper 40 F.
Winter: Temperatures usually range from 50 F - 32 F. Winds can be strong. Dress in layers.
Getting There
Cape Lookout National Seashore can be reached without taking a ferry: the Visitor Center on Harkers Island, NC. Please note: the park mailing address does not bring you to the Harkers Island Visitor Center parking lot. If you are using a GPS device - use the parking lot coordinates (34.
68494, -74.
Plan Your Visit
Let Roamze help you plan the perfect trip to Cape Lookout National Seashore with AI-powered itineraries.
Start PlanningHours
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Cape Lookout National Seashore has 3 offshore barrier islands that are open 24 hours and 365 days a year (weather permitting). Operating hours for visitor centers and other services will vary throughout the year.
