The 25 Most Beautiful Lighthouses in America

The US is home to more lighthouses than you probably ever imagined. Tall ones, short ones, new ones, old ones, beaming bright or going dark, they really do have an undeniable, ecergreen appeal. It could be their lonely charm or the seaside views they command or, of course, their continual functionality as maritime beacons. Whatever it is, lighthouses continue to be a source of fascination, wonder, and intrigue. 

Some of the most beautiful and enchanting lighthouses in the world can be found on American shores. From California to Maine, to the Great Lakes and beyond, there’s no shortage of lighthouses out there that have a special story to tell. We absolutely love a lighthouse and visiting them is an especially fun treat. But, if you can’t make it to a lighthouse on your next vacation, you can do the next best thing and travel the country through pictures with us to discover some of America’s most mesmerizing lighthouses.

Toledo Harbor Lighthouse, Ohio

The Toledo Harbor Light is located about five miles north of Maumee Bay State Park’s shores. The lighthouse marks the entrance to the Toledo Shipping Channel where Lake Erie and Maumee Bay meet. Boaters are generally destined for the Maumee River. In 1897, the Toledo shipping channel was dredged wider and deeper to allow increased shipping to the Port of Toledo located in the Maumee River, furthering the need for a new lighthouse. The Army Corps of Engineers designed the Toledo Harbor Lighthouse and construction began in 1901. If you happen to be in Toledo, don’t miss one of Ohio’s most magical lighthouses.

Eldred Rock Light, Alaska

One of the most remote lighthouses on this list, Eldred Rock Light is a historic octagonal lighthouse adjacent to Lynn Canal in Alaska. It is the last of the ten lighthouses constructed in Alaska between 1902 and 1906. It was also the last of 12 manned lighthouses that were started in Alaska. This is one of the lighthouses on the list that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale.

North Head Lighthouse, Washington

On May 16, 1898, the North Head Lighthouse was put into service as the primary navigation aid at the mouth of the Columbia River. The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse had served this function since October 15, 1856; however, ships continued to run aground at the “Graveyard of the Pacific.” Due to the sheer number of shipwrecks, it was determined a second lighthouse was needed on the northwestern spur of Cape Disappointment, commonly referred to as North Head.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, North Carolina

Cape Hatteras Light is a lighthouse located on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks in the town of Buxton, North Carolina. It is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The lighthouse’s unique pattern makes it easy to recognize and one of the most famous lighthouses in the United States. The construction of a lighthouse at Cape Hatteras was first authorized in 1794 when Congress recognized the danger posed to Atlantic shipping. However, construction did not begin until 1799. The first lighthouse was lit in October of 1803. Made of sandstone, it was 90 feet tall with a lamp powered by whale oil.

Cockspur Island Lighthouse, Georgia

Situated on an islet off the southeastern tip of Cockspur Island marking the South Channel of the Savannah River, the Cockspur Lighthouse stands twelve miles east of the port of Savannah (an exceedingly fun and historic town to visit). The islet, often covered by high tide, is comprised of oyster shells, and marsh grass. Of all the lighthouses in Georgia, this one is the smallest.

Battery Point Lighthouse, California

Battery Point Light is a lighthouse in Crescent City, California, United States. It is registered as a California Historical Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as “Crescent City Lighthouse.” Its oil lamps were first lit on December 10, 1856. Lighthouse keepers still reside there. The Battery Point Lighthouse is open to the public for tours which include the opportunity to look into the personal quarters of keepers and their families and at the furniture and artifacts left behind since the 1850s. This is one of California’s lighthouses that you simply must see.

Bodie Island Lighthouse, North Carolina

The current Bodie Island Lighthouse is the third that has stood in this vicinity of Bodie Island on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. It was built in 1872. It stands 156 feet tall and is located on the Roanoke Sound side of a portion of a peninsula that is the first part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The light was electrified in 1932, phasing out the need for on-site keepers. Finally, all of the light station’s property, except the tower, was transferred to the National Park Service in 1953. It is one of North Carolina’s finest lighthouses.

Split Rock Lighthouse, Minnesota

We’re back to another one of the midwestern lighthouses! Split Rock Light Station was completed in 1910, and for half a century it oversaw the safe passage of freighters carrying freshly mined ore from Minnesota’s Iron Range. After a November gale wrecked nearly 30 ships in 1905, the president of a steamship company led a delegation urging the United States Lighthouse Service to construct this rugged landmark. Visit this one in the summer for the best experience.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse, California

The original Point Loma Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the Point Loma peninsula at the mouth of San Diego Bay in San Diego, California. It is situated in the Cabrillo National Monument. It is no longer in operation as a lighthouse but is open to the public as a museum. It’s now part of the National Park Service. It’s one of the most handsome lighthouses in California!

Yaquina Bay Light, Oregon

The Yaquina Bay Light is a lighthouse that was built in 1871, soon after the founding of the city of Newport, Oregon, in the United States. It is located on the north side of Yaquina Bay. In 1871–1874, it was the busiest and most populated of the many coastal ports between Washington and California. It was decommissioned in 1874 but tourists still have lots of love for it. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

White Shoal Lighthouse, Michigan

One of the lighthouses in the Great Lakes, The White Shoal Light is a lighthouse located 20 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge in Lake Michigan. It is an active aid to navigation. It is also the tallest lighthouse on the Great Lakes. It’s the tallest lighthouse on the great lakes. Visit its website for a live feed from the top of this beautiful baby.

Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon

For more than a century Heceta Head Lighthouse has helped sea goers navigate the Pacific Ocean’s treacherous currents. The Cape owes its name to Don Bruno de Heceta, who in 1775 embarked on a secret voyage for the Queen of Spain to sail up the West Coast. Due to the onslaught of scurvy, Heceta and his crew turned back just before the Columbia River, but not before he noted the shallow waters and rocky headland that now bear his name.

Portland Head Lighthouse, Maine

One of our all-time favorite lighthouses, Portland Head Light is a historic lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The light station sits on a head of land at the entrance of the primary shipping channel into Portland Harbor, which is within Casco Bay in the Gulf of Maine. Completed in 1791, it is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. If you visit, be sure to also check out the adjacent Fort Williams Park.

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New London Ledge Light, Connecticut

New London Ledge Lighthouse is a lighthouse on the Thames River in Connecticut at the mouth of New London harbor. It was built in 1909 in the Second Empire style and was automated in 1987. In 1990 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In 2014, the New London Maritime Society was announced as the new owner of the lighthouse. “New London Ledge Lighthouse Foundation, an all-volunteer organization, will still continue its role of restoring, preserving, and interpreting the lighthouse.” its website claimed.

Loggerhead Lighthouse (Dry Tortugas Light), Florida

The Dry Tortugas Light is a lighthouse located on Loggerhead Key, three miles west of Fort Jefferson, Florida. It was taken out of operation in 2015. It has also been called the Loggerhead Lighthouse. It has been said to be “a greater distance from the mainland than any other light in the world.” In 1992, the light was acquired by the National Park Service.

Block Island Southeast Light, Rhode Island

An architecturally distinctive gem that sits atop Mohegan Bluffs, Southeast Light is one of the two lights on Block Island. This one is the easiest to access. Its grounds offer amazing views out over the Atlantic, including the island’s best perspective on the new Block Island Windfarm located three miles offshore. Construction was completed in 1875. The lighthouse has a 52-foot brick and granite tower and has been named a National Historic Landmark.

Lorain Lighthouse, Ohio

Nicknamed “The Jewel of the Port,” Lorain Lighthouse is one of Ohio’s most beloved lighthouses. Standing at the north end of the West Harbor Breakwater in Lorain Harbor, its light is no longer lit, and its fog horn no longer sounds, but it remains a silent reminder of Lorain’s historic relationship with Lake Erie shipping.On June 30, 2017, the Lorain Lighthouse Foundation and the community of Lorain celebrated the 100^th Anniversary of the Lorain Lighthouse as an Ohio Historical Marker was dedicated to commemorate the occasion.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse, California

Perched on a cliff on the central California coast, 50 miles south of San Francisco, the 115-foot Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in America, has been guiding mariners since 1872, according to California Parks. Its five-wick lard oil lamp, and first-order Fresnel lens, comprised of 1,008 prisms, was first lit at sunset, on November 15, 1872. The lens stands 16 feet tall, 6 feet in diameter, and weighs 2,000 pounds. That’s one really big lens!

Big Sable Point Lighthouse, Michigan

Surprisingly, Michigan is home to more lighthouses than any other state in the United States. The Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association is raising funds to repair Ludington State Park’s Big Sable Point Lighthouse. It’s the last of the Great Lakes lighthouses to become electrified. Help light her up!

Diamond Lady Lighthouse, North Carolina

AKA Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Diamond Lady Lighthouse stands tall above the shimmering sand at Cape Lookout on North Carolina’s central shore, a place only accessible by boat. It was built in 1859 and was later painted with its distinctive black and white checkered pattern in 1873. Isn’t this tall lady something spectacular?

Greens Ledge Lighthouse, Connecticut

Are you looking to purchase a lighthouse? Back in 2015, this was one of six being offered for free by the Federal Government as part of the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000. The acquisition was made through a founding donation by the Pettee Family and restoration began in June 2018 to address the critical structural deficiencies of the lighthouse. The original construction was completed in 1902. For us, it seems like a dream come true to live in one of the country’s most picturesque lighthouses.

Point Bonita Lighthouse, California

According to the National Park Service’s website, this Bay Area stunner has “helped shepherd ships through the treacherous Golden Gate straits” ever since 1855! You can visit the lighthouse and trail on Sundays and Mondays from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. It’s one of the most rewarding hikes you can take on the west coast. You will not be disappointed!

Boston Lighthouse, Massachusetts

On the coast of Little Brewer Island, you’ll discover the oldest lighthouse in the United States. The very first structure was built in 1716, and the current one was erected in 1783. If you’re in the area, you can take a tour of the Boston Harbor which includes this National Historic Landmark. We recommend seeing Boston’s handsome lighthouses in summer because it’s too bitterly cold to truly enjoy them in the winter months.

Biloxi Lighthouse, Mississippi

If you can’t travel down to the deep South along the rugged coast of  Mississippi to witness this attraction in person, don’t worry! The smart folks of Biloxi set up a live video feed from the top of the lighthouse so everyone can enjoy the view from up top. If you do make it to Biloxi to see its lighthouse be sure to start saving now because the casinos there are such a blast for tourists to take advantage of.

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Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, Florida

This gorgeous red lighthouse is the tallest in Florida and one of the tallest in the United States. Its origin goes way, way back to 1835. Although it was out of use for decades because of destruction and construction, it’s been back in business since 1982. In 1998, this beauty was named a National Historic Landmark.

There you go! We hope you found these lighthouses as beautiful as we do. These beacons of hope are just so inspiring. If you liked these vacation-worthy lighthouses, take a look at Mamas Uncut’s picks for the best babymoon ideas. There’s so much of our world to explore!

Check Out These Awesome Babymoon Ideas!

Asheville, North Carolina

Enjoy some crisp mountain air in the mountains! While we do not suggest you go climb a mountain, getting some relaxation in the mountains will do your body good. Asheville is home to one of the very best spas in the state of North Carolina. Visit the Spa at The Omni Grove Park Inn for a massage and some peace of mind!

Tucson, Arizona

Get into some dry heat in Tucson, Arizona, and live your desert fantasy! Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The desert is an excellent place to practice mindfulness and meditation.

Key West, Florida

Do you need some fun in the sun? Take a trip to the Keys for the ultimate vacation. If you feel you could use a nap, pop into a hammock on the beach for an unparalleled relaxation experience. Key West is home to some truly world-class resorts that offer many spa services that you should absolutely take advantage of!

Santa Fe, California

Tour the amazing Pueblo architecture in Santa Fe! It’s one of the most unique babymoon ideas on this list. If the West Coast is calling you, you could do no better than some fun in beautiful Santa Fe.

Sedona, Arizona

Find an oasis in the desert for your very special babymoon. While the notion of being in sweltering heat is likely noxious to you, Oak Creek runs through Sedona providing cooler air than you will find out in the sand. Get yourself squared away in mind, body, and spirit out in Sedona!

Quechee Gorge, Vermont

If you’d like one of the cooler babymoon ideas, head to Vermont for some natural beauty to have a romantic trip among the trees. Quechee Gorge is the deepest gorge in Vermont and offers some truly moving views.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort is a city on Port Royal Island, one of South Carolina’s coastal Sea Islands that feels like a hidden secret. The charming little town is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. If you’re looking for the most chill babymoon ideas, head over to Beaufort for some R&R.

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

If you’d like to escape to the beach and want to miss the crowds, stay in Santa Rosa Beach which is close to Destin, Florida but is far less crowded. For babymoon ideas that involve endless seafood options, get down to Florida for that beach getaway that involves plenty of shrimp!

New Orleans, Louisiana

If your idea of a fun babymoon involves plenty of culture, take a trip to New Orleans for amazing jazz music and plenty of history. While you likely aren’t looking to party down on Bourbon Street, there is so much more to explore in one of America’s most beloved cities. Don’t skip the beignets!

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Enjoy the spirit of New England in Cape Cod, Massachusetts! In the summer, you can enjoy the Hydrangea Festival if you’re a flower-lover! Cape Cod is home to a thriving arts community that would love your patronage. Pick up a piece of art for that nursery! For seafood and art lovers, it’s one of the best babymoon ideas on this list!

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay is the capital of Saint James Parish on Jamaica’s north coast and one of its most popular port cities. There are some incredible resorts in Montego Bay that you can truly enjoy heaven on Earth. Spot some dolphins in Dolphin Bay and soak up the sun on the gorgeous beaches!

Lenox, Massachusetts

Kick back in the Berkshires in Lenox, Massachusetts! One of America’s foremost wellness destinations is Canyon Ranch located in the forest, surrounded by lush trees. Get all of your spa needs met here, it’s one of the best babymoon ideas for expecting mamas who truly want to unwind and relax!

Sag Harbor, New York

If your ideal babymoon involves reading in a rocking chair, you absolutely must go to Sag Harbor! If you live on the East Coast you can easily access the Harbor via train or, of course, just take a drive. Hop on a boat if you’re feeling up to it and let the gentle sounds of the sea soothe you!

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Cape May, New Jersey

Pick a Cape, any Cape for your babymoon ideas! Cape May is a fabulous community in New Jersey. Enjoy all that this seaside resort town has to offer on your babymoon. It’s a dream and much more affordable than some of the other upper East coast towns.

Ojai, California

Located just 30 miles from Santa Barbara, Ojai is home to a place that’s called Lavender Inn. Yes, that does sound magical! They have a fantastic wellness spa onsite for you to truly relax.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Enjoy the amazing resort destination of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. If warm weather and cool Pacific waves are your idea of a great time, you must get down to Mexico! Babymoon ideas are all about convenience and the resorts available to you in Puerto, Vallarta are some of Mexico’s best.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen has a reputation as a ski town but it is a wonderful place to visit in the warmer months. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, ride a bike, take a hike if you feel up to it, and even score a world-class massage in this fancy yet casual mountain town.

Santa Monica, California

Enjoy the best of the bluffs on the ocean in Santa Monica. If you are looking for your very own SoCal oasis, Santa Monica is one of the best babymoon ideas on this list.

Nassau, Bahamas

If it’s cold in your neck of the woods, take a trip to the sunny Bahamas. The white sand beaches are just calling your name, mama! Many of the resorts on the island have private cabanas for your to enjoy and escape from the heat should you need a reprieve.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants, tourist attractions, and spas! If you’d like to escape to a city, Chicago is an affordable destination with endless possibilities for your babymoon ideas. Take an architecture tour on a boat the floats down the Chicago River or visit the Art Institute of Chicago for some of the best art on display in the entire country!

Scottsdale, Arizona

People don’t often associate luxury with the desert but that’s what you will discover in Scottsdale. The Biltmore was famously a favorite destination of Marilyn Monroe who loved to swim in one of the resort’s eight iconic pools.

Turks and Caicos

Get yourself to the tropical paradise of Turks and Caicos, a dreamy island with so much to offer. If you’re looking for one of the best babymoon ideas that offers yoga, stay on Parrot Cay to get your stretch on! With a mile-long beach, you’ll not want for the ocean on this gorgeous island.

Maui, Hawaii

Surf’s up! Sun, sand, and serenity are all yours in Maui, Hawaii. Take a light walking tour of Haleakala National Park to see the sights that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is the perfect place to escape everything. The rugged beauty of the North Carolina coast is truly breathtaking. If want peace and quiet, you will love any of the amazing beaches of the Outer Banks which is home to over 100 miles of beach. Pro tip: the bay is your friend.

There you go! We hope you enjoyed these babymoon ideas and you will treat yourself to some much-deserved vacation around your second trimester. It’s a very special time for you and your growing family so truly live it up, mama!