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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Atlantic, North Carolina · Carteret County

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…

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34.82680, -76.34319
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Cape Lookout National Seashore

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High83°F
Avg Low75°F
Peak Rain Chance33%
Humidity76%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality37 · Good
Today
☁️
Overcast
79°/74°
💧 1%🌬 16mph
6:10 AM8:12 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
81°/76°
💧 10%🌬 15mph
6:11 AM8:12 PM
Tue
Thunderstorm + Hail
85°/76°
💧 14%🌬 18mph
6:12 AM8:11 PM
Wed
Thunderstorm + Hail
87°/72°
💧 33%🌬 16mph
6:13 AM8:10 PM
Thu
Thunderstorm
84°/76°
💧 9%🌬 15mph
6:13 AM8:09 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

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.

How to Get 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, -74.52725) or the following "address" which approximates the location of the parking lot entrance: 1800 Island Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Cape Lookout National Seashore

Heading to Cape Lookout National Seashore? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Cape Lookout National Seashore?

No central reservation system listed for Cape Lookout National Seashore. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2613) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Cape Lookout National Seashore?

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, -74.52725) or the following "address" which approximates the location of the parking lot entrance: 1800 Is…

How do I contact Cape Lookout National Seashore?

You can reach the park at phone: (252) 728-2250 or email: CALO_VC@nps.gov.