Built in 1875 and standing 162 feet tall, the historic red-brick Currituck Lighthouse still as a beacon of light for passing ships, with the light still flashing at 20-second intervals from dusk ’til dawn. Climb the winding 220 ships to the top to soak in an unbelievable 360 degree view over the Atlantic ocean and Currituck Sound. Pause on the way up to read the plaques outlining construction, history, preservation, and more. The lighthouse is open for climbing between Easter and Thanksgiving. When the Currituck Beach Light was lit in 1875, it illuminated the last dark spot on the eastern seaboard. Staffed with lighthouse keepers until the middle of the 20th century when they were replaced by automated systems, the lighthouse keeper’s housing and grounds fell into disrepair. Restored by the Outer Banks Conservationists, Inc., a private non-profit organization, the lighthouse is available for climbing and the view from the top is spectacular. There is a $7 fee for climbing, but the overlook view is worth it.