The East Coast offers many fascinating destinations and attractions, especially its picturesque coastline. Along this shoreline, one structure is impossible to overlook: the lighthouse. Each lighthouse has its own story to tell, having guided ships for centuries.
These captivating East Coast lighthouses rank among the most worthwhile sights to see, each carrying symbolic significance. From Maine’s rocky shores to sunny Florida, these premier lighthouses will form an essential part of your East Coast journey.
Table of Contents
Best Lighthouses on the East Coast
- Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York
- Scituate Lighthouse, Massachusetts
- Highland Lighthouse, Massachusetts
- Point Judith Lighthouse, Rhode Island
- Portland Head Light, Maine
- West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, Maine
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, North Carolina
- Currituck Beach Lighthouse, North Carolina
- Harbour Town Lighthouse, South Carolina
- Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, Florida
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Florida
- Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey
- Twin Lights State Historic Site, New Jersey
- Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia
- Tybee Island Light Station & Museum, Georgia
Best Lighthouses on the East Coast
Lighthouses along the East Coast of the USA offer a variety of experiences. Some are historic landmarks where you can climb to enjoy panoramic views, while others are smaller structures nestled in picturesque towns. Our list highlights both famous landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring you truly appreciate the coastal maritime heritage.
Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is spring and fall. Temperatures are mild, and crowds are smaller than in summer.
This is New York State’s oldest lighthouse, built in 1796, and one of Montauk’s iconic landmarks. For over 200 years, it has stood guard at the tip of Long Island. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean and the breathtaking scenery of Montauk Point State Park. Visit the lighthouse museum to learn about local history. Admission is $15. This is also one of the destinations for weekend trips from New York.
Other things to do
Beyond the lighthouse, Montauk Point State Park offers hiking trails like Shadmoor State Park and Camp Hero State Park, featuring cliff views and wildlife ideal for nature enthusiasts. Alternatively, relax along Ditch Plains Beach. At Gosman’s Dock, you can savor the freshest seafood.
Scituate Lighthouse, Massachusetts
Best time to visit: Late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit here.
The Scituate Lighthouse stands on the Massachusetts coast. Built in 1811, it is renowned for the heroic tale of two young girls, Abigail Bates and Rebecca Bates. During the War of 1812, they scared off a British landing party by playing the flute and drum, earning them the nickname “American Army of Two.” The lighthouse itself is a beautiful, classic structure at the end of a rocky pier, making it an ideal photo spot. The lighthouse grounds are open to the public with no admission fee.
Other things to do
You can stroll along the pier and enjoy a delicious seafood meal here. Scituate itself is a classic New England seaside village, boasting beautiful coastlines and top-notch local restaurants.
Highland Lighthouse, Massachusetts
Best time to visit: The lighthouse is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October. Autumn, especially September, is an ideal time to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Perched on the bluffs of Cape Cod National Seashore, the Highland Lighthouse is a powerful symbol of Cape Cod’s maritime history. The current tower dates back to 1857 and was relocated in 1996 due to coastal erosion. This is also Cape Cod’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. Visitors can climb the lighthouse to enjoy views of the ocean and nearby sand dunes. Admission to Highland Lighthouse is $8.
Other things to do
At Cape Cod National Seashore, there are many fun activities to enjoy. After visiting the lighthouse, the nearby Highland House Museum will immerse you in the area’s history. Taking a stroll along the beach is also a great option, and Cape Cod boasts numerous lighthouses open for tours.
Point Judith Lighthouse, Rhode Island
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during the summer, as this is also the ideal season to enjoy the nearby beaches.
The Point Judith Lighthouse in Narragansett, Rhode Island, stands as a sentinel at the entrance to Narragansett Bay. The current octagonal granite tower was built in 1856. The lighthouse grounds are open to the public free of charge, but visitors are not permitted to climb the tower.
Other things to do
We recommend taking a ferry for a day trip to Block Island, home to the spectacular Mohegan Bluffs and several sandy beaches. You can surf, fish, or birdwatch on the island. Narragansett also boasts charming shops and restaurants.
Portland Head Light, Maine
Best time to visit: Summer and fall offer the best weather and scenery, but for a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during the quieter winter months. Sunrise and sunset provide excellent photo opportunities.
Located within Fort Williams Park, Portland Head Light stands as one of the most renowned lighthouses on the East Coast and Maine’s oldest, built in 1791. Visitors can admire sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean alongside the elegant white lighthouse and historic fort ruins, creating an atmosphere steeped in history. While the tower itself is not open to the public, the grounds and museum are accessible to all.
Other things to do
Fort Williams Park offers opportunities for picnicking and strolling along the rocky shoreline. Guided walking tours are available daily at 11 a.m., where park staff provide commentary on native flora and the lighthouse.
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, Maine
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during summer and early autumn. The visitor center and museum are open from May to October.
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse stands at the easternmost point of the continental United States, with Canada visible across the sea. The lighthouse itself features striking red and white stripes that contrast beautifully against the sky and ocean. The original beacon tower was built in 1808, while the current tower dates back to 1858. Although the tower is not open for public climbing year-round, the second Saturday in September is designated as Lighthouse Open House Day.
Other things to do
West Quoddy Head State Park offers spectacular trails and views of the Bay of Fundy. You can also visit Lubec for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you bring your passport, you can cross the bridge to Campobello Island, Canada, and explore Roosevelt Campobello International Park, once the summer retreat of President Roosevelt.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, North Carolina
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit. The weather is mild during these seasons, and there are fewer crowds.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands out among the many lighthouses along the East Coast. Located on the Outer Banks, it is the tallest brick lighthouse in North America, soaring to a height of 208 feet. Relocated to its current site in 1999, its distinctive black-and-white diagonal stripes create a striking visual impression. The grounds are free to visit, but climbing the lighthouse costs $8–$10. Please note that Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is currently undergoing restoration and will not be open in 2025.
Other things to do
You can visit the nearby Cape Hatteras National Seashore for beachcombing, fishing, and surfing. You can also explore the historic village of Buxton or go on a wild horse tour to see the famous Spanish mustangs.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse, North Carolina
Best time to visit: The lighthouse is open for climbing from mid-March to the end of November. The grounds remain open year-round. It is best to avoid the peak summer crowds.
Also located on the Outer Banks, it was built in 1875. Unlike many other lighthouses, its original red brick exterior remains unpainted, giving the entire structure a distinctly vintage feel. Access to the lighthouse grounds and museum is free, but climbing the lighthouse costs $13. You can climb the 220 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound
Other things to do
If you’re traveling with family, the nearby Corolla Adventure Park is a perfect destination. It features a variety of climbing structures. You can also visit the Orca Club and the Outer Banks Wildlife Education Center there.
Harbour Town Lighthouse, South Carolina
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal times to enjoy beautiful sunsets and escape the summer heat.
Located on Hilton Head Island and built in 1970, this lighthouse stands out from others. Constructed as a modern landmark rather than for navigation purposes, it is privately owned and features distinctive red and white stripes. The cost to climb the lighthouse is $7.50.
Other things to do
The area boasts world-class golf courses and beautiful beaches. You can watch dolphins, take a boat tour, or simply relax on the beach. If you’re interested in history, the Stoney Baynard Ruins are a Civil War site with many spine-chilling ghost stories.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, Florida
Best time to visit: Visiting in spring or fall offers more comfortable weather. Summers in Florida can be extremely hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms being common.
Standing as Florida’s tallest lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse near Daytona Beach is a sight to behold. The brick-red lighthouse, built in 1887, remains well-preserved. Climb 203 steps to enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Halifax River, and the surrounding area. Admission to the lighthouse costs $6.50, while museum entry is $5.00. We recommend purchasing the combined ticket for $11.95.
Other things to do
The nearby Marine Science Center is a great place to learn about marine life. Or head to Lighthouse Point Park for swimming, speedboat rides, or a stroll along the beach.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Florida
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer comfortable weather for climbing the tower. Consider visiting before sunset for a unique perspective.
This 165-foot-tall lighthouse, built in 1874, is one of the oldest in the United States and features the same black-and-white striped appearance. Inside, 219 steps lead to the top, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city of St. Augustine. The Maritime Museum displays artifacts salvaged from shipwrecks near St. Augustine. It is also a popular spot for ghost tours. Admission is $17.95.
Other things to do
St. Augustine boasts a rich history, with the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument being the top recommendation. Visitors here can also enjoy views of Matanzas Bay. Next is Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a museum housing many rare and unusual treasures.
Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is in spring or fall, when you can also observe migratory birds, avoiding the peak summer heat.
This is New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse and the third tallest in the United States, built in 1857. With 228 steps, it differs from other lighthouses in that the climb to the top offers not only ocean views but also a city skyline to admire. The cost to climb the lighthouse is $10.
Other things to do
The lighthouse is just steps away from Atlantic City‘s boardwalk, home to casinos, amusement piers, and numerous entertainment venues. You can also relax on the beach or take a dolphin-watching cruise. Or head to Steel Pier, a park featuring fun rides and attractions.
Twin Lights State Historic Site, New Jersey
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is in the fall, especially in the morning or before sunset, when you can enjoy comfortable weather and the most stunning views.
Situated on the high bluffs of Highlands, New Jersey, the Twin Lights State Historic Site is unique because it features two towers, one octagonal and one square. The current structures were built in 1862 and were an important innovation in lighthouse technology. They were the first to use a Fresnel lens and the first to be lit by kerosene, which was a huge improvement over earlier systems.
The panoramic views from the towers are simply stunning, offering a view of Sandy Hook, the Atlantic Ocean, and the New York City skyline on a clear day. The museum and courtyard are free to enter, but climbing the two towers costs $5.
Other things to do
This area boasts numerous natural parks and protected areas, particularly the Gateway National Recreation Area, where visitors can swim, picnic, bike, and birdwatch. Meanwhile, the town center of Highlands features many seafood restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit, with mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer brings hotter temperatures but is ideal for beach activities.
There are two lighthouses here, both designated as National Historic Landmarks. The first was built in 1792, and the second in 1881. The two structures exhibit distinct appearances: the first lighthouse is constructed of brown sandstone, while the second is taller and features a distinctive black-and-white vertical striped design. Visitors can climb the first brick tower to enjoy breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The fee for climbing the lighthouse is $16.
Other things to do
We recommend visiting Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the liveliest seaside resort area featuring boardwalks, restaurants, and shops. You can also explore the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which showcases marine life and even offers boat tours.
Tybee Island Light Station & Museum, Georgia
Best time to visit: The lighthouse and museum are open year-round. Spring and early summer are ideal for warm weather; please avoid the hurricane season in August.
Tybee Island Light Station is Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. The original lighthouse was built in 1736, but the current structure with its black-and-white striped appearance was completed in 1867. The lighthouse contains 178 steps, and admission costs $14. From the top, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Tybee Island, the Savannah River, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Other things to do
Fort Pulaski National Monument is a Civil War landmark offering historical exhibits. Dolphin watching tours are also a popular local activity. Of course, you can also drive to Savannah, where you’ll find a variety of landmark buildings and historical sites.
FAQ
How many lighthouses are in the USA?
The United States has over 700 lighthouses, a significant portion of which are located along the East Coast, and most remain in active service.
Which state on the east coast has the most lighthouses?
Maine is the state with the most lighthouses on the East Coast, boasting over 60 lighthouses. Nationwide, Michigan holds the distinction of having the most lighthouses, with over 120.
What are the top 10 oldest lighthouses in the United States?
The oldest lighthouse in the United States is commonly considered to be:
- Boston Light, Massachusetts (1716)
- Sandy Hook Lighthouse, New Jersey (1764)
- Charleston Light, South Carolina (1767)
- Beavertail Lighthouse, Rhode Island (1749)
- New London Harbor Light, Connecticut (1760)
- Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia (1792)
- Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York (1797)
- Portland Head Light, Maine (1791)
- Old Baldy Lighthouse, North Carolina (1817)
- Old Field Point Lighthouse, New York (1824)
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