Massachusetts is home to some of the most historic and picturesque lighthouses in the United States. From the country’s first light station on Boston Harbor to windswept towers perched on Cape Cod dunes and remote beacons on the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, each lighthouse tells a story of maritime navigation, coastal resilience, and New England charm.
With over 40 lighthouses still standing—and many open to the public—Massachusetts offers something for every lighthouse enthusiast, whether you’re looking for a short walk to a scenic viewpoint, a hike along a breakwater, or a ferry ride to a rugged island light.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best lighthouses to visit in Massachusetts, grouped by region to help you plan your trip. You’ll also find travel tips, photography advice, and suggested routes to make the most of your coastal adventure.
Map of Lighthouses in Massachusetts
To help you plan your lighthouse visits across Massachusetts, we’ve created a map that pinpoints the exact location of each lighthouse featured in this guide. Whether you’re road-tripping across Cape Cod or island-hopping between Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, this visual tool makes it easy to chart your route.
View the interactive map here.
Greater Boston & North Shore Lighthouses
Massachusetts’ lighthouse legacy begins in Boston Harbor, home to the oldest lighthouse site in the country. The North Shore, known for its rocky coastlines and historic fishing towns, also offers a mix of dramatic and lesser-known lights that are well worth the trip.
Boston Light – Little Brewster Island
First established in 1716 and rebuilt in 1783, Boston Light is the oldest light station in the United States. It’s also the last American lighthouse still staffed by a keeper. Tours to Little Brewster Island are available in summer through the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park system. Visitors can climb the tower and learn about its long history of service.
Learn more about Boston Light here.
Minots Ledge Light – Off Cohasset/Scituate
Known locally as the “I Love You” light for its 1-4-3 flashing pattern, Minots Ledge Light is perched dramatically on a submerged reef a mile offshore. While it’s not open to the public, it can be viewed from land in Cohasset or by boat. Its offshore construction and storm-battered history make it one of the most iconic (and daring) lighthouse builds in New England.
Learn more about Minots Light here.
Graves Light Station – Outer Boston Harbor
Built in 1905, this remote granite tower marks the outermost edge of Boston Harbor. Though not accessible to the public, it can be seen by boat or from a distance on harbor cruises. Privately restored in recent years, Graves Light is a striking and isolated beacon with a distinctive architectural profile.
Learn more about Graves Light Station here.
Eastern Point Lighthouse – Gloucester
Positioned at the entrance to Gloucester Harbor, Eastern Point Light has been guiding vessels since 1832. Visitors can walk the adjacent breakwater to get a close view of the tower and explore nearby trails at the Massachusetts Audubon sanctuary. The grounds are not open to the public, but the lighthouse is easy to photograph from the shoreline.
Learn more about Eastern Point Lighthouse here.
Cape Ann Light Station (Thacher Island Twin Lights) – Rockport
These twin towers are the only surviving operating pair in the U.S. and are set on remote Thacher Island just offshore from Rockport. Accessible by kayak or seasonal boat shuttle, the island offers hiking trails and dramatic views of both towers—one of which is still active.
Learn more about Cape Ann Light Station here.
Cape Cod Lighthouses
Cape Cod is home to some of the most accessible and well-known lighthouses in New England. From dramatic ocean cliffs to long granite breakwaters, these lights offer coastal views, rich history, and opportunities for hiking, climbing, or relaxing by the sea.
Wing’s Neck Lighthouse – Pocasset
Once a working aid to navigation, Wing’s Neck Light now operates as a vacation rental on a private point overlooking Buzzards Bay. While the lighthouse itself isn’t open to the public on a walk-up basis, it’s a picturesque spot visible from the water and a unique option for overnight stays.
Learn more about Wing’s Neck Lighthouse here.
Nauset Lighthouse – Eastham
With its iconic red-and-white tower, Nauset Light is one of the most recognizable lighthouses on the Cape—and the model for the Cape Cod Potato Chips logo. Located within the Cape Cod National Seashore, it’s open seasonally for guided climbs and offers nearby beach access and scenic walking trails.
Learn more about Nauset Lighthouse here.
Highland Lighthouse – Truro
Also known as Cape Cod Light, this was the first lighthouse built on the Cape and remains one of its tallest. It was relocated inland in 1996 due to severe coastal erosion. Open seasonally for tours, it offers panoramic views from the top and sits adjacent to Highland Links, one of the oldest golf courses in the U.S.
Learn more about Highland Lighthouse here.
Race Point Lighthouse – Provincetown
Set in the dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Race Point Light is accessible by a 45-minute hike or via oversand vehicle with a permit. The site includes a restored keeper’s house and oil house, both of which are available for overnight stays. It’s one of the most immersive lighthouse experiences in the state.
Learn more about Race Point Lighthouse here.
Wood End Lighthouse – Provincetown
Located just west of Race Point, Wood End Light is only accessible on foot via a 1.5-mile walk across the Provincetown breakwater. The hike is well worth it for the solitude, coastal scenery, and sweeping views of Cape Cod Bay. While the lighthouse isn’t open to the public, the setting is one of the most peaceful on the Cape.
Learn more about Wood End Lighthouse here.
The Islands: Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket Lighthouses
Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are home to some of Massachusetts’ most scenic and historic lighthouses. Many are easy to visit by bike, foot, or 4WD vehicle—and a few even offer unique vantage points for sunrise or sunset photography. Whether you’re staying on the islands or visiting for the day, these lights are essential stops.
Gay Head Lighthouse – Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard
Overlooking the colorful clay cliffs of Aquinnah, Gay Head Light is one of the most dramatic and geologically striking lighthouse settings in New England. The tower was moved inland in 2015 to escape erosion and is open seasonally for tours and sunset viewing.
Learn more about Gay Head Lighthouse here.
Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse – Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard
Easily accessible from downtown Edgartown, this postcard-perfect lighthouse sits at the edge of a calm beach and is one of the most photographed spots on the island. It’s open seasonally for climbs and also hosts an annual holiday lighting ceremony.
Learn more about Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse here.
East Chop Lighthouse – Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard
Located just outside the town center, East Chop Light stands above the bluffs with wide views of Vineyard Sound. Operated by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, the lighthouse is open on select summer evenings for sunset climbs.
Learn more about East Chop Lighthouse here.
West Chop Lighthouse – Vineyard Haven, Martha’s Vineyard
This light marks the entrance to Vineyard Haven Harbor. While the grounds and tower are not open to the public, it’s visible from nearby roads and offers a quiet, residential view into the island’s maritime past.
Learn more about West Chop Lighthouse here.
Cape Poge Lighthouse – Chappaquiddick Island, Martha’s Vineyard
Reached via Chappaquiddick Island and only accessible by 4WD over sand trails, Cape Poge Light is one of the island’s more remote and rewarding visits. Tours are available through The Trustees of Reservations, who manage the surrounding wildlife refuge.
Learn more about Cape Poge Lighthouse here.
Brant Point Lighthouse – Nantucket
Just steps from downtown Nantucket, Brant Point Light is the second-oldest lighthouse station in the U.S. and welcomes visitors arriving by ferry. While the small tower isn’t open for tours, the surrounding beach and harbor views are a must-see.
Learn more about Brant Point Lighthouse here.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse – Siasconset, Nantucket
Perched high above the Atlantic on the island’s eastern edge, Sankaty Head Light is famous for its bold red-and-white bands. It was moved back from the eroding bluff in 2007 and remains one of the island’s most iconic sights.
Learn more about Sankaty Head Lighthouse here.
Great Point Lighthouse – Coskata-Coatue, Nantucket
Remote and rugged, Great Point Light requires a 4WD vehicle and permit to reach via sand trail through a protected wildlife refuge. The reward? Sweeping ocean views, solitude, and a sense of being at the very edge of the world.
Learn more about Great Point Lighthouse here.
Tips for Visiting Massachusetts Lighthouses
From busy harbors to remote island beaches, visiting Massachusetts lighthouses can be easy—or require a bit of adventure. These tips will help you plan smart and get the most out of your trip.
Check for Seasonal Access
Many lighthouses, especially those with tower climbs or museum access, are only open from late spring through early fall. Always check ahead with local lighthouse organizations or tourism boards for updated hours and tour availability.
Island Travel Requires Planning
Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket each have multiple lighthouses, but getting to them often involves ferries, shuttles, or even off-road travel. If you’re visiting:
- Martha’s Vineyard: Use the ferry from Woods Hole (Steamship Authority) and consider renting bikes or using local buses.
- Nantucket: Ferries run from Hyannis, and Great Point Light requires a 4WD vehicle and oversand permit.
Be Prepared for Breakwater and Beach Walks
Several lighthouses, including Wood End, Race Point, and Eastern Point, are accessed by walking along long breakwaters or sandy trails. Wear sturdy shoes, check the tide schedule, and bring water—especially in warmer months.
Respect Private Property and Preservation Rules
Some lighthouses, such as Wing’s Neck and West Chop, are located on private land or near private residences. Visitors should admire these lights from a respectful distance and follow all posted signage.
Bring Binoculars for Offshore Lights
For lighthouses not open to the public or only visible by boat—like Minots Light or Graves Light—a pair of binoculars or a good zoom lens can help you appreciate the details from shore.
Photography Tips
Massachusetts’ lighthouses offer an incredible range of photographic opportunities, from sweeping coastal vistas to quiet harbor scenes. Here are a few tips to help you capture memorable shots at some of the state’s most photogenic lights.
Time Your Visit for the Best Light
- Golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—is ideal for warm, dramatic lighting.
- West-facing lighthouses like Gay Head and Race Point are perfect at sunset.
- East-facing lights like Sankaty Head or Great Point shine in the morning light.
Consider the Tide and Weather
- Low tide can expose rocky foregrounds (great for texture), while high tide may allow for reflection shots.
- Foggy mornings on Cape Cod or Nantucket often create moody, atmospheric photos—especially at lights like Wood End or Highland.
Use Foreground Elements for Depth
- Coastal grasses, dunes, flowers, and fences help frame your subject and create layered, dynamic images.
- For example, shoot Nauset Light from low in the dune grass or include the breakwater leading to Eastern Point Light for perspective.
Pack Smart
- A tripod is useful for long exposures, especially at dusk or on overcast days.
- A polarizing filter can reduce glare off the water and bring out sky contrast.
- If hiking to lights like Race Point or Great Point, protect your gear from sand and wind.
Boat Tours = Unique Angles
- Consider harbor cruises or photography-specific boat tours for offshore lights like Minots, Graves, or even views of Boston Light you can’t get from land.
Plan Your Lighthouse Route
With so many lighthouses scattered along the coast and on the islands, planning your trip by region can help you see more without rushing. Below are three suggested itineraries—each perfect for a long day trip or weekend getaway.
1. Boston & North Shore Loop (1 Day)
This route includes a mix of harbor views, offshore lights, and coastal towns:
- Start in Boston Harbor with a summer tour to Boston Light (via ferry from Boston or Hull).
- Drive to Cohasset to view Minots Light from shore.
- Continue north to Gloucester to explore Eastern Point Light and walk the breakwater.
- End in Rockport with a boat ride (seasonal) to Thacher Island’s Twin Lights (Cape Ann Light Station).
Optional Stops: Add a harbor cruise for a view of Graves Light, or spend time at the Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center.
2. Cape Cod Lighthouse Weekend
Ideal for travelers spending a few days on the Cape, this route takes you from the Upper Cape to Provincetown:
- Begin at Wing’s Neck Light in Pocasset (view from shore or book a stay).
- Head east to Nauset Light and Highland Light, both open for seasonal tours.
- Spend your final day in Provincetown, hiking or driving to Race Point Light and walking the breakwater to Wood End Light.
Recommended Duration: 2–3 days
Tip: Stay overnight in Provincetown to catch sunset or sunrise at Race Point.
3. Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket Explorer (2–3 Days)
For a full island experience, spend a few days visiting lights across both Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Martha’s Vineyard:
- Visit Edgartown Harbor Light, East Chop, and West Chop by bike or bus.
- Head to Gay Head Light in Aquinnah for a sunset view.
- Book a tour with The Trustees to visit Cape Poge Light (4WD access required).
Nantucket:
- See Brant Point Light right from the ferry dock.
- Drive or bike to Sankaty Head Light in Siasconset.
- Book an oversand permit or tour to reach Great Point Light, one of the most remote spots in the state.
Tip: Travel between islands requires separate ferry rides—plan accordingly or focus on one island if you’re short on time.
Additional Resources
To help you plan your perfect lighthouse adventure in Massachusetts, here are some resources and tools to support your trip:
Free Lighthouse Visitors Guide
Looking for an easy way to keep track of your visits and plan smarter?
Download our free Lighthouse Visitors Guide here.
It includes a printable checklist, travel tips, photography advice, and lighthouse etiquette.
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Planning Tools & External Links
