Buxton is the highest point on Hatteras Island and home to the tallest lighthouse in the nation. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, known for its distinctive “barber pole” paint job was originally erected in 1797 as a beacon of light to help passing ships navigate the dangerous shoals as they passed along the coast. Tours are available to climb the historic Lighthouse beginning on the third Friday in April through Columbus Day. Full Moon tours are also available May through September.
The largest maritime forest in North Carolina can also be found here. Lots of live oak and cedar trees grow in the Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve. Spend some time walking along the Buxton Woods Nature Trail, or go and watch the kite boarders and windsurfers along the sound on the western edge of Highway 12 just North of Buxton. Although Resort Realty doesn’t feature any properties in Buxton right now, it’s a great place to visit and staying in Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Frisco, or Hatteras Village ensures an easy drive to discover this amazing Hatteras Island town.