Cape Cod’s curved coastline has long made it one of the most important—and most picturesque—stretches of shore in New England. Jutting into the Atlantic like a flexed arm, the Cape has been home to shipwrecks, fishing fleets, and navigation hazards for centuries. To protect sailors from these dangers, more than a dozen lighthouses were built along its shores—many of which still stand today, carefully preserved and open to visitors.
From dramatic cliffside towers to remote lights nestled in sand dunes, Cape Cod’s lighthouses offer history, views, and a true sense of place. Whether you’re planning a quiet walk along a breakwater or a hike through the dunes, this guide will help you discover the best lighthouses to visit on the Cape—organized by location, with travel tips and a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time.
Map of Cape Cod Lighthouses
Planning your visit to Cape Cod’s lighthouses is easier with a visual guide. We’ve created a map marking the locations of each lighthouse featured in this article, from the Upper Cape’s coastal cottages to the remote sands of Provincetown.
View the interactive map here.
This map highlights:
- Publicly accessible lighthouses
- Hike-in locations like Wood End and Race Point
- View-only lights that can be seen from shore or ferry
Upper Cape
Lighthouses located on the Upper Cape are some of the easiest to access from the mainland. Learn more about some of our favorites below.
Nobska Lighthouse – Woods Hole
Overlooking the entrance to Vineyard Sound, Nobska Light offers sweeping views of Martha’s Vineyard, the Elizabeth Islands, and the ferry traffic coming in and out of Woods Hole. The lighthouse grounds are open to the public year-round, and the tower is open for seasonal tours. It’s one of the most scenic and photogenic spots on the Upper Cape.
Wing’s Neck Lighthouse – Pocasset
Located at the tip of a narrow peninsula in Buzzards Bay, Wing’s Neck Light is one of the few lighthouses in New England where visitors can actually stay overnight. The light station is now a private rental property, but it’s visible from the surrounding shoreline or by water. It’s a peaceful, secluded site for those seeking something off the beaten path.
Learn more about Wing’s Neck Lighthouse here.
Cleveland Ledge Lighthouse – Buzzards Bay
This offshore lighthouse, located in the middle of Buzzards Bay near the Cape Cod Canal, isn’t open to the public—but it’s a unique example of mid-20th century caisson-style construction. Cleveland Ledge Light is best viewed by boat or from nearby shoreline viewpoints with binoculars.
Sandy Neck Lighthouse – Barnstable
Situated at the end of a long sand spit off Barnstable Harbor, Sandy Neck Light is not easily accessible, but it’s a great destination for adventurous hikers or kayakers. The light sits near a cluster of historic cottages and offers quiet, undeveloped surroundings perfect for photography or birdwatching.
Mid Cape
The Mid Cape includes some of the Cape’s most popular summer destinations, like Hyannis and Dennis. While the lighthouses in this region tend to be smaller and less dramatic than their Outer Cape counterparts, they’re charming, accessible, and often located near beaches, harbors, and historic districts.
Hyannis Harbor Light – Hyannis
This privately owned lighthouse sits near the entrance to Hyannis Harbor and is visible from ferries headed to Nantucket. While the property itself is not open to the public, you can view the lighthouse from nearby beaches or by boat. Its white tower and black lantern make it a striking landmark for boaters arriving at one of the Cape’s busiest ports.
West Dennis Light – Dennis
Now part of the Lighthouse Inn resort, West Dennis Light is one of the few Cape Cod lighthouses still serving as an active beacon. While not open for formal tours, the lighthouse and surrounding inn grounds can be visited during the resort’s operating season. It’s a lovely spot for sunset views or a beachfront dinner with lighthouse history in the background.
Lower and Outer Cape
Cape Cod’s Lower and Outer regions are home to some of the most iconic and remote lighthouses in New England. From dramatic cliffs and windswept beaches to long breakwater hikes, these lights offer rich history and unforgettable coastal views.
Chatham Lighthouse – Chatham
Overlooking the shifting sands of Chatham Bar, this active Coast Guard station is one of the most photographed and accessible lighthouses on the Cape. The light is located just steps from the beach and downtown Chatham. While tower tours are limited, the grounds are open year-round, and interpretive signs tell the story of this still-operational aid to navigation.
Stage Harbor Lighthouse – Chatham
This decommissioned lighthouse sits on private land at the edge of Harding’s Beach. It’s not open to the public, but it’s visible from the nearby shoreline or during a scenic walk along the beach. Its classic white tower and salt marsh surroundings make it a favorite for photographers.
Three Sisters Lighthouses – Eastham
Once perched along the eroding cliffs of Nauset Beach, the Three Sisters were replaced by the current Nauset Light and relocated inland for preservation. Today, the three squat towers stand side by side in a clearing within Cape Cod National Seashore. Visitors can view them up close via a short trail from the Nauset Light parking area.
Nauset Lighthouse – Eastham
One of the Cape’s most iconic lights, Nauset is known for its red-and-white tower and scenic perch above the Atlantic. Located within the National Seashore, it’s open for seasonal tours and is easily accessible by car. It’s a popular stop for beachgoers and a great place to catch sunrise or sunset.
Learn more about Nauset Lighthouse here.
Highland Lighthouse – Truro
Cape Cod’s tallest and oldest lighthouse, Highland Light stands on a bluff above the ocean and offers sweeping views of the Outer Cape. Moved inland in 1996 to prevent collapse due to erosion, it’s now open for seasonal tours and sits next to Highland Links Golf Course and a small visitor center.
Learn more about Highland Lighthouse here.
Race Point Lighthouse – Provincetown
This remote beacon is tucked away in the dunes of Cape Cod National Seashore and can be reached via a long walk or 4WD vehicle with a permit. The site includes a keeper’s house and oil house—both available for overnight stays. It’s one of the Cape’s most immersive lighthouse experiences.
Learn more about Race Point Lighthouse here.
Wood End Lighthouse – Provincetown
Located just beyond the breakwater at Provincetown’s West End, Wood End Light is a quiet destination for those willing to hike across the rocks. Though not open to the public, the lighthouse sits in a serene coastal setting surrounded by sand, sea, and wildlife.
Learn more about Wood End Lighthouse here.
Long Point Light Station – Provincetown
Marking the very tip of Cape Cod’s curl, Long Point Light is visible from town or can be reached by a long beach hike past Wood End or by boat. The lighthouse is not open for tours, but its setting—at the end of the world, it seems—is unforgettable.
Tips for Visiting Cape Cod Lighthouses
Cape Cod’s lighthouses are spread across beaches, bluffs, and breakwaters—some easy to reach, others requiring a bit more effort. These tips will help you plan your visits safely and make the most of each stop.
Check Seasonal Access
Many lighthouses on the Cape, such as Highland, Nauset, and Race Point, are open for tours only during late spring through early fall. Check the official websites or local preservation groups for the most up-to-date hours and tour schedules.
Be Prepared for Hiking and Breakwaters
Lighthouses like Wood End, Race Point, and Long Point require long walks on sand or rock jetties. Bring sturdy footwear, sun protection, water, and check tide charts before setting out—especially for Provincetown’s breakwater, which can be slippery when wet.
Visit the Three Sisters with Nauset
If you’re heading to Nauset Light, make time to walk the short trail to the Three Sisters. They’re often overlooked but add historical depth and a unique photo opportunity.
Look Into Overnight Stays
For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a night at Race Point Light or Wing’s Neck Light. These stays are popular and fill up fast, so plan ahead—especially in summer. Learn more about other lighthouses in New England that offer overnight rentals here.
Use Ferries and Local Transit When Possible
Parking at beaches and lighthouse trailheads can fill quickly in peak season. Consider using the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) shuttles, biking to trailheads, or arriving early for the best access.
Respect Private Property
Some lighthouses, such as Wing’s Neck and Stage Harbor, are privately owned or sit on private land. While they can be admired from a distance or nearby shorelines, visitors should respect posted signs and avoid trespassing.
Suggested Itinerary: 1–2 Day Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a full weekend getaway, this lighthouse itinerary helps you experience the best of Cape Cod’s coast, history, and scenery. It includes a mix of drive-up stops, scenic hikes, and lesser-known gems.
Day 1 – Upper & Mid Cape Highlights
Start your tour in the Upper Cape and work your way east:
- Wing’s Neck Lighthouse – Stop for a shoreline view of this private, historic light.
- Nobska Lighthouse – Enjoy a stop with sweeping views from Woods Hole.
- Sandy Neck Lighthouse – For the adventurous, hike or paddle out from Barnstable Harbor.
- Hyannis Harbor Light – View from the beach or ferry as you head toward the Mid Cape.
- West Dennis Light – End your day with a sunset stop and dinner at the Lighthouse Inn (in season).
Optional Add-on: Visit Cleveland Ledge Light by boat tour if you’re departing from Buzzards Bay or Falmouth.
Day 2 – Outer Cape Exploration
Begin early and head north into the Cape Cod National Seashore:
- Chatham Lighthouse – Tour the grounds or watch for seals just offshore.
- Stage Harbor Lighthouse – Walk from Harding’s Beach for a view of this quiet light.
- Nauset Lighthouse – Climb the tower and walk the trail to the Three Sisters.
- Highland Lighthouse – Visit the tallest light on the Cape and enjoy ocean bluff views.
- Race Point Lighthouse – Hike or take a 4WD tour for a remote and rugged experience.
- Wood End or Long Point – If you have time (and energy), hike the Provincetown breakwater for a peaceful, uncrowded finale.
Tip: Stay overnight in Provincetown to split the Outer Cape portion across two days and enjoy sunset or sunrise at Race Point or Long Point.
Additional Resources
Whether you’re visiting one lighthouse or planning a full Cape Cod tour, these resources will help you make the most of your trip.
Free Lighthouse Visitors Guide
Looking for a printable checklist, packing tips, and a map of must-see lights?
Download our free Lighthouse Visitors Guide here.
Explore More Lighthouses in New England
If you’re expanding your trip beyond Cape Cod, check out these helpful articles:
Local Planning Tools
