If you’re looking for a vacation that’s as thrilling as it is soothing, the world’s most dangerous hotel might be your best bet — as long as you don’t mind dodging sharks and hurricanes. Located 32 miles off the east coast of North Carolina, the Frying Pan Tower is a rustic (in the true sense of the word) former U.S. Coast Guard lighthouse that now welcomes daredevil guests for a stay unlike any other. The hotel — accessible only by helicopter, which costs around $2,600 roundtrip — boasts 8 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and space for up to 12 guests. You can enjoy 360º sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean for just $1,950 for the weekend. Once a crucial maritime navigation aid, the tower — which rises 85 feet above sea level — was decommissioned in the early 2000s and later bought at an auction in 2012 by a private owner for nearly $80,000. Since then, it’s been restored by a team of volunteers. A stay at Frying Pan Tower isn’t for the faint of heart or those who have a fear of heights. The hotel is also plagued by frequent hurricanes and and heavy storms. Despite its perilous surroundings, the Frying Pan Tower offers a range of amenities and activities to ensure that guests have a comfortable and memorable stay. Evenings are spent fishing, diving, or cooking communal meals, before relaxing in the recreation room that overlooks endless stretches of blue. For those who prefer a touch of luxury, a private chef can even be hired for the duration of the stay. What began as an isolated light tower in 1964 has now become one of America's most talked-about destinations — a place where thrill-seekers and curious travelers come to experience an unforgettable stay at sea.
