The National Park Service offers full moon tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse throughout the season, providing a very special experience for visitors. This Friday evening, July 15th, climbers will get a glimpse of what the lighthouse keepers of old were able to experience – seeing that beam of light reaching out to sea and the beautiful reflection of the newly risen moon on the ocean.
Two tours are given, one at 8:15 p.m. and a second at 9:15 p.m. Each tour is limited to 30 people. This is a truly unique and memorable experience for your Hatteras Island vacation on the Outer Banks that you don’t want to miss!
Get your tickets today! The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Full Moon Tour tickets must be purchased in advance at the lighthouse ticket booth, located at the lighthouse site in Buxton village. The ticket booth is open from 8:15 a.m. – 5:40 p.m. daily.
There are no lights inside the lighthouse and climbers will navigate the 257 stair staircase using handheld flashlights. During the climb, park rangers provide stories of the arduous duties of the lighthouse keeper. From the watch room, visitors will be able to view the light up close and in motion and hear of the operation of the beacon, past and present – a truly unique experience.
Things to Know Before You Go:
1. Full Moon Tour tickets are limited to the first 60 purchasers and must be purchased in person, in advance, at the lighthouse ticket booth. Full Moon Tour ticket sales will begin a few days in advance of the scheduled tour. It is anticipated that tickets will sell out early. Standard admissions fees apply – $7 for adults, and $3.50 for children (11 and under) as well as seniors (62 and older).
2. Each participant must bring a handheld flashlight with fresh, serviceable batteries.
3. All participants are required to be at least 42 inches tall and must climb the steps on their own – they cannot be carried! If unsure, check with the Rangers before purchasing your non-refundable ticket. Also, keep in mind that some youngsters, although meeting height requirements, may not enjoy the dimly lit, sometimes claustrophobic environment.
4. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
5. For safety reasons, all participants must climb and descend with the group. No exceptions.
6. Know your limitations! The lighthouse is tall, dark, often hot, humid, and can be a challenge to climb. There are no internal lights or air conditioning.
7. All routine lighthouse safety requirements, as well as restrictions as to eating, drinking, gum, etc., apply. This information will be provided to you when you purchase your ticket.
8. Tickets are non-refundable. If the program is cancelled due to weather, the ticket holder may exchange the ticket the following morning, between the hours of 8:15 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. for a replacement ticket useable only on that following day. This ticket will be for day climbing only.
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