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Embarking on a journey to explore the mesmerizing world of lighthouses in Florida was a delightful adventure that left me in awe. With the sunshine state boasting a whopping 30 lighthouses along its captivating coastline, I set out to discover the top gems—lighthouses in Florida to visit. Picture standing beneath the towering structures that have withstood the test of time, each whispering tales of maritime history. From the historic charm of the Amelia Island Lighthouse to the breathtaking views atop the St. Augustine Lighthouse, this journey was a visual feast for any lighthouse enthusiast. So, let me take you on a virtual tour of these beacons of light, sharing the allure, the history, and the sheer beauty of Florida’s coastal guardians. Join me in uncovering the stories that unfold at each beacon, beckoning travelers to experience the unique charm of these remarkable structures.
10 Lighthouses in Florida to Visit This Year
If you like lighthouses, Florida is an excellent travel destination. Visiting many of the state’s lighthouses is a great deal of fun. Florida has 30 lighthouses along its coastline, making it the state with the most lighthouses globally. Here you will find our best options for lighthouses in Florida to visit as well as the ones you should visit if you have the opportunity!
Top 10 Lighthouses in Florida to Visit
You will find these lighthouses located in popular tourist areas and some in more remote locations. For a stunning view, climb to the uppermost level and take some amazing photos!
1. Amelia Island Lighthouse
Amelia Island Lighthouse
The Amelia Island lighthouse include on the list simply since it is Florida’s oldest lighthouse. This lighthouse, built-in 1838, is a living piece of Florida history. Moreover, it has never undergone significant restoration. Saturdays are the only days that the lighthouse is open to the public. However, for tourists, it can offer twice a month on the first and third Wednesdays. While you cannot ascend the lighthouse, you can take a tour of the grounds to have a closer look to photograph it.
2. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Cape Canaveral has an operational lighthouse recently reopened to the public, despite being best known for space shuttle launches. The 145-foot-tall brick lighthouse has 180 stairs, as well as an oil storage house. This lighthouse was previously only accessible to US citizens due to its location. On the other hand, international visitors will now visit provided they have passport details at least 72 hours before their trip.
3. Boca Grande Lighthouse
The Boca Grande Lighthouse is a charming building with a white frame house and green shutters, and a black lantern tower. The Florida State Park Service is presently in charge of the operational lighthouse. It stands just 40 feet tall and has 55 stairs leading to the roof. Boca Grande locate near Cape Coral on Florida’s west coast. The lighthouse makes iron screw piles with a timber frame and can see from up to 12 miles away when illuminated.
4. Cape Florida
The lighthouse builts help sailors navigate across the Florida reef and escape an unfortunate disaster. This lighthouse adds to the National Register of Historic Places as a cultural heritage. A wrap-around balcony at the top provides a legendary view of Key Biscayne. The tower is open for tours five days a week. However, Cape Florida closes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
5. Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse
The Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse is a one-of-a-kind landmark on Florida’s coast. It is among the world’s most vital lights, which can see for up to 28 kilometers. Since the lighthouse is on Coast Guard property, it is not open to the public all of the time. Tours can offer only once a month. Moreover, it charges the $25 fee due to the summit’s fascinating past and breathtaking views.
6. Jupiter Inlet
Jupiter Lighthouse
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is a working lighthouse. It stands 108 feet tall and sits atop a 48-foot-high Indian mound. Jupiter, Florida, has long been recognized as the birthplace of one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, as well as the country’s most colorful lighthouse.
There are sunset tours that include appointments in addition to those that are free to the public. In addition, it also contains a museum and gift shop. It might be the only lighthouse between the Cape Canaveral and Hillsboro Inlet lighthouses on the east Florida coast. Moreover, it is one of Palm Beach County’s oldest structures.
7. Pensacola Lighthouse
The top half of the Pensacola Lighthouse paints black, while the lower half paint white. The blacktop shows out against the horizon, while the white lower stand out against the foliage. Moreover, it designs that way to make it visible from afar. For the entire family, the lighthouse climb and museum below it are well worth visiting.
Pensacola Pass can see from the top of the tower. In 1974, the National Register of Historic Places added the Pensacola Lighthouse to its list.
8. St. George Island Lighthouse
Ascend the 92 stairs to the summit for panoramic views of St. George Island. Little ones will also enjoy the playground and beachfront land at the base of the St. George Lighthouse. Make time to visit the Keeper’s Museum and the area’s visitor center, all of which locates on the lighthouse grounds. The lighthouse, built in the 1800s, has a long history and has served as a significant landmark for nearly 200 years. The lighthouse is entirely operational and includes a recreation of the original Keeper’s Quarters, which houses a museum and gift shop.
9. St. Augustine Lighthouse
St. Augustine Lighthouse
It is Florida’s lighthouse, which is famous for its name and stature. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is renowned for many reasons. However, its status as an unofficial symbol of the country’s oldest city only adds to its significance. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a must-see on every list. The tower, located on Anastasia Island’s north end, sits at the height of 165 feet (50 m). The lighthouse is already on the National Historic Places Register of the USA and is famous for its ghost tours. On top of the clock, enjoy stunning views of the sunset and full moon rise while sipping champagne!
10. Carysfort Reef Lighthouse
The lighthouse has an iron screw-pile base with a platform and a red-painted skeletal hexagonal symmetric tower. The lighthouse is the country’s oldest operational lighthouse of its kind. It’s a towering building that stands 112 feet tall. The shallow reefs that cover the lighthouse’s base prevent boats from getting too near. Ships and planes have the best views of the lighthouse. The red tower stands against water, marine waters, and dark reefs with its white trims.
Vide Credit: @SunshineStateInsider
Finale: A Journey Beyond the Horizon
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the St. George Island Lighthouse, I couldn’t help but reflect on the enchanting expedition through Florida’s coastal wonders. The echoes of crashing waves and the panoramic views from atop these iconic structures are etched in my memory. Whether navigating the stairs of the Amelia Island Lighthouse or savoring the sunset from the St. Augustine Lighthouse, each site unveiled a unique chapter of history. Now, I urge you to set forth on your own adventure, discovering the allure of lighthouses in Florida. Share your tales, capture the beauty, and let these coastal beacons guide you to a journey beyond the horizon. Your lighthouse adventure awaits—let the stories unfold.
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