Florida has several historic lighthouses that you can visit, each with its own charm and beauty. Perfect to enjoy the view and learn more about the area.
On this post I’ll show you some of those historic lighthouses to visit, where they are and a little more about them, including the ones I have visited and how my experience was. To visit some lighthouses, keep in mind that the stairs will be difficult to climb and some kids will not be able to climb them, so it is important to check their official pages to make sure of the minimum height and other details.
St. Augustine Lighthouse
This is the tallest one in Florida. Built in 1874, it offers a panoramic view of the Atlantic coast and the historic city. You can go to the top, and below you can visit the maritime museum. The place also offers different tours such as a sunset tour that includes champagne or a ghost tour (very typical of the city and even an episode of the show ‘Ghost Adventures’ was held at this lighthouse). You can buy tickets here.
Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
Located in Ponce Inlet, south of Daytona Beach, this lighthouse is one of the tallest in the United States. It was built in 1887 and you can climb the 203 steps to the top and enjoy amazing views of the ocean and part of the city. I like the views from this lighthouse better than the ones from St. Augustine, but both are not to be missed. You can buy tickets here. The main photo in this post is from the top of this lighthouse.
Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
This one is located very close to Kennedy Space Center. To get inside the lighthouse, you have to make a reservation as it is located at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and requires a pre-approved security clearance and escort. Built in 1868, this historic lighthouse has guided ships along Florida’s Space Coast for decades. Here I leave the website so you can explore which tour is the best for you and buy tickets before your visit.
Key West Lighthouse
Located in one of my favorite places in the state, this lighthouse is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. Built in 1848, it offers a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. You can also visit the Key West Lighthouse Museum and Visitor Center, which tells the maritime history of the region. There are 88 steps to climb to the top and here’s the link so you can buy tickets in advance (you save money if you buy them online before your visit) and discover other tours in Key West.
St. George Island Lighthouse
Located on the island of St. George in the Gulf of Mexico, this lighthouse offers spectacular views of white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Built in 1852, it has become an iconic island landmark and a popular spot for photography lovers. It is located about 1hr30min from Tallahassee and about 5hrs from Orlando, towards the Panhandle.
Cape Florida Lighthouse
In South Florida you find this lighthouse located in Key Biscayne. You have to enter the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and in there you’ll find the lighthouse and once you pay the entrance to the state park, there’s no fee to visit the lighthouse. This is the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County and was built in 1825, which has survived many hurricanes that have torn apart the area or nearby areas. The lighthouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and tours are only at 10am and 1pm. Here’s the link to get more info about tours.
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
This city already offers beautiful beaches. From this lighthouse you can enjoy the views of the turquoise blue sea and at the base visit the museum and the green areas next to the Loxahatchee River. The place sometimes offers tours during sunset and yoga. Here’s the link of their page for more info.
There are more lighthouses in Florida, have you been to one that we don’t mention here? Let us know your experience!
