Bodie Island Visitor Center and Lighthouse at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Bodie Island Visitor Center at Cape Hatteras National Seashore is located in the historic Bodie Island Lighthouse Keeper’s Quarters that was built in the early 1870s. The lighthouse, which is open for climbing, stands behind the building. There are no exhibits or a museum at the Visitor Center, but there is a Ranger-staffed information desk where you can ask questions and pick up park brochures, plus a book / souvenir store. Restroom facilities are in a separate building a short walk from the Visitor Center.

The Visitor Center is located at the end of Bodie Island Lighthouse Road, which is about six miles south of the northern park entrance. The building is open daily, except for Christmas, from 9 AM to 5 PM (extended to 6 PM during the tourist season). Times can change, so before making travel plans always check the official Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the latest schedule.

In addition to climbing Bodie Island Lighthouse, there is a short boardwalk trail that takes visitors to an observation platform that overlooks a salt marsh.

By the way, Bodie is pronounced “Body.”