The Lighthouse is a well-known surf spot located right in front of the tallest lighthouse in the US. Recently, the lighthouse was moved a few hundred feet back from the surf, which changes the dynamics of the area. The spot is known for its heavy erosion at Cape Hatteras, which makes it a bit unpredictable at times. It's usually crowded because it consistently breaks, drawing surfers from all around.
This spot picks up most swells, with the NorthEast swell direction being the best for lining up those longer lefts. You can also catch waves from North and South swells here. It can handle swell sizes starting from around 2ft (0.6 meters) and goes up from there. The waves break over sand, providing both left and right rides depending on the conditions. The ends of the jetties can get a bit dredgy, with some days offering barrels and others being more mushy. It's surfable at all tides, but low incoming tides typically give the best conditions. This spot is definitely suited for intermediate surfers looking to improve their skills.
Be cautious of the rocks and submerged objects around, as well as shipwreck debris that might wash in with storms. The environment can get pretty busy due to the spot's consistent breaks, so be prepared for a lot of company in the water. For those planning to stay longer, there are plenty of camping options available in the Buxton area.