Amazing at night. Lots of stars to be seen. Feels like you are very far away from civilization. We visited Mother’s Day weekend of 2004 and it was completely “un-busy” except for locals. There are only 2 restaurants here within a decent distance though, so be warned!
I hear it gets really crowded in summer, but if you can go on the off-season, I highly recommend it.
The lighthouse is on a military base and fenced off, so it is really not worth the visit if you are expecting to get up-close to it. Also, take the ferry to Ft. Fisher for shopping and sight-seeing there as well!