THE 10 BEST United States Lighthouses
Lighthouses in United States
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361 places sorted by traveler favorites
- Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lighthouses
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lighthouses
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
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What travelers are saying
- FLJESSM2000Orlando, FL74 contributionsI am terrified of heights, that being said I did climb the lighthouse! There are landings to stop at on your way up and down. There is a great little snack shop on site for a refreshing glass of lemonade, soda, and a few choice beers. They had snacks available as well. On the grounds you can tour the housing units and there is a cute little playground area for kids. Once you finish, stop by the gift shop and purchase your I climbed the lighthouse t shirt or certificate. They stamp and sign the certificate! Great little adventure.Written May 5, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- SwonQonDoiBoston, MA298 contributionsWe wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and liberate ourselves in the refreshing breeze and serene blue sea, so we headed to Maine for our holiday.
There's always something special about visiting beautiful states like Maine, and our destination was Portland. It was truly charming and picturesque. We allowed ourselves to break free from the demands of daily life and let the soothing sea calm our minds. It was incredibly peaceful.
One highlight we highly recommend is Portland Head Light. As the oldest lighthouse in Maine, it offers breathtaking views from every angle. Picture a pristine white lighthouse standing tall against the backdrop of the blue sky and sea – it's an unforgettable sight.
Nearby, you'll find food trucks where you can grab delicious food, drinks, and ice cream to make your day here in Portland even better.Written April 21, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Ginger B ROswego, NY289 contributionsThere isn't much to do here except the view, but what a view! It's not hard to park, but you walk a little bit. Then, just enjoy the sight. The lighthouse is so cute, and you get a good look at it and the coast from large, flat rocks. Great photo stop. There is ice cream across the street as well.Written March 13, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Nieves CSacramento, CA3 contributionsDefinitely worth a visit for some Ponce Inlet history. We were so fortunate to have Scott be our tour guide. He’s knowledge and very friendly.Written May 8, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- BinghamtoniansNewport, RI9 contributionsFantastic state park. We highly recommend visiting. We were off season when we went exploring to the southern most part of the OBX.
If visiting in summer, grab water, sunblock, hat and flip flops. Explore the beautiful beach, go shelling, be mindful if swimming and only swim where there are lifeguards on duty. We saw many ocean rip currents and we both enjoy swimming however, we are forever mindful of our surroundings before we venture in for a dip.
If you do not know what a rip current looks like, take the time, educate yourself and your party and ask a lifeguard on duty.
The museum is tastefully done and the park ranger staff is excellent, professional and most informative. The history of the light house, its keepers and then the task of relocating is fascinating.
We highly recommend venturing into the national park.Written February 29, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - thumperriceRome, NY53 contributionsThe views from the top of this lighthouse were awesome. I am not a fit person, but the climb was not too bad at all. There are railings all the way up to the top of a narrow spiral staircase. There are many landings to be able to catch your breath as well. It was well worth the climb just to see the views at the top.Written April 28, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Tracy RBlanchard, OK190 contributionsWe enjoyed our visit! Just know that if you want to go to the top of the lighthouse, you must purchase tickets online. There is no in-person option, so if you don't have cell service there, you're out of luck!
We did enjoy going to the top! People can only go up each flight of stairs one at a time though, so you do end up walking in shifts, but that breaks up the 10 flights of stairs anyway.Written May 17, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Henry’s TakeSan Diego, CA973 contributionsWhile I can’t say that lighthouses are prominent fixtures on the West Coast, they are numerous enough to make a nice addition to the identity of the East Coast. Learning that one of Georgia’s contributions to this collection is on Tybee Island (just outside of Savannah), only meant that it just had to be explored and experienced!
The Tybee Island Lighthouse is located a mere 30 minute drive from Savannah, and is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia. While the spiral staircase does require 178 steps of effort to the top, it offers at least 3 rewards for those willing to scale them.
First, you get an up close introduction to the still active Fresnel lens that is maintained by the Coast Guard and intensifies a beam of light equivalent to 70,000 candlepower that is visible a full 18 miles out to sea.
Second, you also get an up close introduction to the air vents in the lantern room that the lighthouse keeper manipulates to facilitate the efficient exit of both the fumes from the oil burning lamp (that provides the beam that the Fresnel lens magnifies) and the condensation it creates.
Third, you have access to a near 360 degree balcony offering amazing coastline viewpoints!
If you choose to visit you’ll actually be enjoying the 4th iteration of this lighthouse. The original was completed in 1736, but was destroyed by a severe Atlantic Ocean storm. The rebuilt version later suffered the same fate and version 3 was nearly destroyed by soldiers during the Civil War. While the current lighthouse remains stable, a recent inspection determined that it requires immediate preservation and those efforts are now underway.
While this adventure is not recommended for those with mobility challenges or small children, you don’t need to be a history aficionado to appreciate this special place.
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
#georgialighthousesWritten April 30, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Kathy D2 contributionsCape May Lighthouse is a gem! The views from the top are like something out of a postcard – you can see the ocean and the bay in all their glory. The climb is a bit of a workout, but totally worth it. The whole place is well-kept, and the museum is interesting too. If you're in the area, it's a great spot to soak in some coastal beauty.Written January 1, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Calondra B.Houston, TX1,088 contributionsMarch 2023 visit
I didn’t go inside the museum because my party was ready to leave.
There are 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse.
The Lighthouse Museum and the Ernest Hemingway Museum face each other and are located on corner intersections. It makes it so easy to locate these landmarks.
The landscape is well maintained.Written April 30, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - PattyF58Philadelphia, PA84 contributionsThis place is gorgeous!! Be cautious around the rocks. Some folks were being a bit too aggressive with their climbing for photos and you can easily be overwhelmed by strong surf. However, if you’re a skilled photographer it’s the place to go. If you’re looking for peaceful views of the ocean it’s simply breathtaking here. The climb to the top of the lighthouse is short but narrow and ends with a small ladder but we enjoyed it!Written October 9, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Okie HeatherEdmond, OK21 contributionsWe stopped here before catching our flight home. It was worth it! The museum is well down with great stories and facts, especially about the SPAR! The 177 step climb is challenging even for those who are in shape. Coming down is harder especially when others are coming up. The views are breathtaking. We enjoyed watching the Hornets do touch and gos on the runways. It was a memorable experience!Written March 21, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Jacob DannerChanhassen, MN407 contributionsSplit Rock Lighthouse
The most dangerous piece of water in the world
A November gale that wrecked nearly 30 ships in 1905 prompted this rugged landmark's construction. When the U.S. Lighthouse Service completed Split Rock Light Station in 1910, it soon became one of Minnesota's best known destinations.
Nestled in a Minnesota State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most photographed and visited spots in the state, with a drama-filled history and breathtaking Lake Superior views. If you haven't visited lately, now is the time to pay homage to a true North Shore icon.Written April 4, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - The Adventurous LensNew York City, NY4 contributionsMontauk Point Lighthouse offers a serene and picturesque escape just a few hours from New York City. Perched on the eastern tip of Long Island, this historic landmark boasts breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.
The lighthouse itself is a marvel of maritime history, dating back to the 18th century. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic vistas or explore the museum to learn about the area's rich seafaring heritage. The surrounding grounds are perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply soaking in the coastal beauty.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or seeking a peaceful retreat from the city buzz, Montauk Point Lighthouse is a must-visit destination. Plan your trip to witness the magic of this coastal gem and create unforgettable memories by the sea.Written April 30, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - James cOklahoma City, OK377 contributionsI was told this is the most photographed lighthouse in the world. I would say in Oregon 4 sure. The hike to the top of hill is very scenic especially the views of the beach below. Make sure you go all the way to the top, here you can see the top of the lighthouse. I would definitely spend time at the beach after.
Note: you can only visit the 1st floor but you can go in the care takers house. I didn't have the timeWritten October 1, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
