Caswell Beach, NC

Located at the mouth of the Cape Fear River with long sandy beaches and mild weather, it’s no wonder so many people visit here each year. Named after the historic Fort Caswell located at the eastern tip of the island, Caswell Beach is home to the brightest lighthouse in the United States and boasts a Coast Guard Station reminiscent of the old coastal life saving stations.
Deep dunes and sprawling beach cottages line the oceanside, and marsh side cottages on pilings overlook the Cape Fear river shipping channel. The only souvenirs available at Caswell Beach are the shells collected on quiet low tide walks along this beautiful shore. Besides the Oak Island Golf & Country Club, there is no commercial development, making it a relaxing place to vacation.
The town takes its name from Fort Caswell which was established on the east end of Oak Island by the Army in 1826. During the Civil War, the fort was used by Confederates to guard one of the inlets of the Cape Fear River. After major additions following the Spanish American War, it served as a training post during World War I and a submarine lookout post during World War II.
The most important architectural feature of Caswell Beach is the Oak Island Lighthouse, which started operating in 1958 to warn ships of the treacherous Frying Pan Shoals and guide mariners safely into the Cape Fear River. Known as the second brightest lighthouse in the world, the beacon atop the towering gray, black and white silo can be seen nearly 30 miles offshore.