Diamond Shoals Light stands offshore in the treacherous waters of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, where the Atlantic’s cold Labrador Current collides with the warm Gulf Stream. Built in 1966, this Texas Tower-style platform replaced the last lightship stationed at this notoriously dangerous shoal, known historically as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” The structure is no longer active and is not open to the public, so visitors cannot climb it. Best photographed from boat tours during golden hour or from Cape Hatteras Point on clear days. Nearby, explore the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras village for rich maritime history.

Explore Nearby

• Alligator River Route — Scenic Byway in North Carolina
• Perquimans Crossing — Scenic Byway in North Carolina
• Jockey’s Ridge State Park — State Park in North Carolina
• Run Hill State Natural Area — State Park in North Carolina
• Croatan National Forest — National Forest in North Carolina