Bodie Island Lighthouse Renovations

The striking black and white striped Bodie Island lighthouse provides one of the most distinctive and picturesque sceneries of the Outer Banks. Planning a visit to one of our OBX vacation rentals? Why not plan a trip to the newly renovated Bodie Island Lighthouse. Re-opening this spring, the tower is located on Bodie Island, just south of Nags Head. The 165 foot lighthouse that is standing today is actually the third attempt to illuminate the stretch of coastline between Currituck Beach and Cape Hatteras.

The planning and construction of the first Bodie Island lighthouse began in 1838 with the final completion occurring years later in 1847. The budget of the lighthouse was foreseen by the Fifth Auditor of the Treasury who was more concerned with saving money than with building a sound structure. Thus, the 54 foot tower was fraught with problems from the very beginning.The unsupported foundation developed cracks and leaks which caused the lighthouse to gradually sink and lean to one side. Because of its many issues, the first Bodie lighthouse was leveled after only 11 years. It certainly seemed that the second tower, which was completed in 1859 and designed by the Army Corps of Engineers, had procured a much more promising future. Unfortunately, however, the second tower also met an untimely and unfortunate end during the Civil War when the confederates succeeding in destroying the majestic 80 foot tower. 

The construction of the third and final Bodie Island Lighthouse began in July 1871 and was completed by the following year. Its existence, unlike its predecessors, was relatively peaceful for many quiet years. However, as the years went by, the structural preservation of the lighthouse seemed to be fading with time. In 2004 this became abundantly clear when two cast-iron chunks fell from the gallery atop the tower. The tower was then closed off to visitors because of safety hazards. Funding for the restoration of the lighthouse was removed from the federal budget and hopes for a restoration of the stately lighthouse began to fade. 

In the following years, faith prevailed and after years of postponement and diligently raising funds, work began briefly in January of 2010only to be cut short once again in August 2010.Further issues were found during the process and authorities still lacked the funds necessary to bring the lighthouse back to life. As the lighthouse and its supporters waited patiently and searched tirelessly for more funds, the arrival of Hurricane Irene in 2011 caused even more damage to the unfortunate structure. 

Thankfully, the story of the Bodie Island Lighthouse has a happy ending. We are happy to announce that visitors to our OBX vacation rentals in the upcoming seasons can certainly plan on taking a tour of the beautiful tower. In the past months, restoration work has been ongoing for the lighthouse and its renovations will be unveiledsoon inspring 2013. After that time, visitors and residents of the Outer Banks will now be allowed to climb its 214 steps to the top.Workers will have replaced existing windows that needed repair and installed a system to eliminate airborne particles that could be a health threat. They will also design and create metal patterns for parts in need of replacement, and design and place interior scaffolding that will allow them to reach inside parts of the tower for repainting. Always scenic, the BodieIsland Lighthouse is now in its prime once again. For those of our guests who will be staying in one of our OBX vacation rentals this spring and summer, why not plan a trip to theBodie Island Lighthouse and find out more about the fascinating history of this magnificent sentinel?

Things to do on the Outer Banks

Gearing up to stay in one of beautiful OBX Vacation Rentals? As relaxing as that sounds, I’m sure you don’t want to stay in during your whole vacation. Even though we’re known for our laid-back island atmosphere, we still know how to have fun! The great thing about the Outer Banks is that there is such a huge variety of things for you to do while you’re here on vacation. Everyone in the group is bound to find something that they love to do. And why not try something new while you’re here?
 
For the adventurer:
 
Any watersport you could possibly think of is available on the Outer Banks. For the complete beginner to the expert, both lessons and rentals are offered up and down the OBX with local experts there to help you along the way. Whether it’s jet skiing, ocean and sound kayaking, parasailing, wind surfing, kite boarding, or surfing, we’ve got you covered. Don’t forget to try paddle boarding and sailing too! After you’re soaked and exhausted, head back to your OBX vacation rental for a relaxing night in.

For the family: 

Are your most recent family photographs a little out dated? In need of a beautiful new Christmas card to send next year? Take advantage of our beautiful white sandy beaches and gather the kids up for a new family portrait. No more struggling to get your kids to smile and look like they’re getting along—while on vacation everyone’s smiles will be genuine. Outer Banks has many talented local photographers that will snap, shoot and click until you get your perfect family photo.

For the shopper: 

OBX is a unique and one-of-a-kind place and our local shops reflect that. You can find tons of local surf shops equipped with the latest styles and a touch of island flair as well as art galleries and souvenir shops. Bring everyone home back a souvenir, and make sure to shop a little for yourself while you’re here. You could find some great shops within walking distance of your OBX Vacation rentals.

For the foodie:

Take a break from the boring chains and try eating at one of our many local restaurants. With fresh seafood and creative local flavors, even the most “seasoned” food critic will be impressed.

For the kids:

With tons of kid-friendly activities including museums, parks, aquariums, and playgrounds, both kid and parent will be happy on this vacation.

For the history buff: 

The Outer Banks is a place rich in history. Here was the spot that where the first colonists to settle the Americas arrived, only to mysteriously disappear. The Wright Brothers chose this place to test the first flight. Not only that, but the famous pirate Blackbeard frequented the Outer Banks. 

For the hard worker: 

As much as we love adventure here on the Outer Banks, we know how important relaxing is to a great vacation. While sitting on the beach with your toes in the sand is relaxing, kick it up a notch and visit one of many spas. Take some time out for yourself— you deserve it!
With plenty of things to do and see, the Outer Banks is the perfect vacation. Whether it’s a fun family weekend, a break spent with your friends, or a romantic getaway, there is sure to be something to delight everyone. Check out some of our OBX vacation rentals today and get to planning your next vacation!