Cape Lookout National Seashore
A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Photo: NPS photo / NPS
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.
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Driving times from Cape Lookout National Seashore, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Cape Lookout National Seashore
- Mon
- All Day
- Tue
- All Day
- Wed
- All Day
- Thu
- All Day
- Fri
- All Day
- Sat
- All Day
- Sun
- All Day
Activities
Getting there
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.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Cape Lookout National Seashore?
- Popular activities include ATV Off-Roading, Astronomy, Auto Off-Roading, Auto and ATV, Backcountry Camping, Boating.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Cape Lookout National Seashore?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Moores Creek National Battlefield (3 h 37 min), Fort Raleigh National Historic Site (4 h 34 min), Wright Brothers National Memorial (4 h 48 min), Fort Monroe National Monument (5 h 19 min), Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park (5 h 20 min), Petersburg National Battlefield (5 h 21 min).