Diamond Lady Lighthouse Travel Poster

The “Diamond Lady” lighthouse — officially known as the Cape Lookout Lighthouse in North Carolina — is a truly special place that blends striking beauty, rich history, and wild natural surroundings. Here are some of its great features:

Standing 163 feet tall and first lit in 1859, this lighthouse is instantly recognizable by its iconic black-and-white diamond checkered pattern, which isn’t just decorative — the pattern actually serves to help sailors orient themselves: white diamonds point east-west, black ones north-south.

Surrounded by undeveloped barrier islands and 56 miles of pristine beaches accessible only by boat or ferry, the Diamond Lady is part of Cape Lookout National Seashore — a place where you can really escape, connect with nature, and enjoy some peace.

If you’re up for it, you can climb the 207 narrow steps to the top for panoramic views of the ocean, the inland sound, dunes, and, on a clear day, you’ll really appreciate how remote and vast the surroundings are.

Wildlife adds to the magic here — particularly the famous wild (Banker) horses on nearby Shackleford Banks, which can often be spotted during the boat journey or from the shore.

Finally, because commercial development is minimal, light pollution is very low, so the “Diamond Lady” area is excellent for stargazing and peaceful evenings. The isolation adds to the sense of serenity.