Cape Lookout National Seashore

Small sandpipers, called Sanderlings, are common sights on the ocean beach as they search for food in the sand between waves
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.
Map showing location of park.
Dr. Sue, horse biologist, talks to people while standing on the dunes.
Cape Lookout National Seashore Announces Horse Sense and Survival Tours in 2025
Cape Lookout National Seashore is pleased to announce the 2025 Horse Sense and Survival tour schedule, led by Resource Manager, Dr. Sue Stuska.
Grazing Wild Horses on Shackleford
Volunteers Needed for the Pony Patrol
Application open for Pony Patrol volunteers at Cape Lookout National Seashore
: Black & white patterned tower of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands against a blue & white cloud f
Photo by NPS photo
A bird with orange bill and orange legs runs along the tide line. Waves in the background
Photo by NPS Photo / Sabrina Godin
A red light illuminates a tent on the sand, with a star filled sky behind it.
Photo by NPS Photo / Sabrina Godin
A seashell lays in the sand, with the sun setting in the background.
Photo by NPS Photo / Sabrina Godin
A sand covered turtles flings sand on the beach while laying eggs.
Photo by NPS Photo
A Jeep drives on the sand in between grass covered dunes.
Photo by NPS Photo / Sabrina Godin
A angler sits in a chair, with two fishing poles in the sand. Lighthouse in background.
Photo by NPS Photo / Sabrina Godin