The lighthouse on Bald Head Island, or Ol' Baldy as it is known locally, is situated several miles off the North Carolina coast on one of the barrier islands generally to the south of Wilmington and is a great day trip.

The best way to see the island is to rent a bicycle or a golf cart ~ there are no cars on the island other than emergency vehicles, which is really nice.

A trip out to Bald Head Island begins with a ferry ride that also gives you a chance to see Oak Island lighthouse off in the distance. The Oak Island lighthouse is unique in that it is poured concrete that is itself colored to prevent the need for periodic painting. You also get to see some of the coastal fishing industry as the ferry departs for the island. Bald Head Island lighthouse itself is situated in a grove of old live oak trees in a very photogenic setting although you'll need a fairly wide angle lens to get all of the lighthouse.

Unfortunately, I seem to have a knack for getting there on overcast days...

Oh well!