The isolated Cape Lookout National Seashore has a wealth of hidden treasures, from wild horses to incredible seashells, but one of the Core Banks’ most unique destinations is the Cape Lookout Village Historic District. Located just inland of the area’s beaches and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, this collection of historic homes is fascinating reminder of the island’s former prominence as a small coastal community.
There are 20 contributing buildings and one contributing site in the Cape Lookout Village Historic District, and the structures include fine examples of beach bungalow and Queen Anne architecture. The homes were once part of a small but thriving village that lived in the shadow of the local Life-Saving Station, which is also found on-site, and which dates back to 1888. Additional structures of note include the station’s boathouse, the 1907 Keepers’ Quarters, and the Seifert-Davis House (also known as the Coca Cola House). Though a little hard to reach, (bug spray and good walking shoes are recommended), visitors who make the hike will be treated to a ghost town of a village where history has been well preserved. A seldom-seen local attraction, the Cape Lookout Village Historic District is just another reason to explore this stunning and surprising barrier island shoreline.
