There’s something timeless and captivating about lighthouses. Perched on rugged coastlines or standing tall on remote islands, these beacons once guided mariners safely to shore — and today, they continue to draw visitors in search of history, views, and a touch of adventure.
Boston, with its deep maritime roots, is the perfect starting point for exploring some of New England’s most iconic lighthouses. From the oldest continually used lighthouse in the United States to scenic towers on Cape Cod and the islands, the region offers a diverse range of lights that are easily accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.
This guide highlights some of the best lighthouses near Boston worth visiting — with tips on how to see them, what makes each one special, and how to make the most of your trip.
1. Boston Light (Little Brewster Island)
Just a few miles from downtown Boston, Boston Light holds the distinction of being the oldest continually used lighthouse in the United States. First established in 1716 and rebuilt after the Revolutionary War, this iconic structure still shines a guiding light at the entrance to Boston Harbor.
Why Visit: Boston Light is steeped in history and offers one of the most authentic lighthouse experiences in the country. It’s also the only lighthouse in the U.S. that still has a resident, Coast Guard-appointed lighthouse keeper.
How to Visit: The lighthouse is located on Little Brewster Island and is accessible only by boat. Seasonal guided tours are available through Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park, departing from downtown Boston. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so advance reservations are recommended.
What to Expect: Tour-goers can climb the tower, explore the island, and learn about the light’s long and storied past. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline — a truly memorable way to connect with Boston’s maritime heritage.
2. Graves Light Station
Standing tall at the outer edge of Boston Harbor, Graves Light is a dramatic granite tower perched on a rocky ledge, guarding the approach to the city. Built in 1905, it was the last major lighthouse constructed in New England and remains one of the most impressive.
Why Visit: While the lighthouse itself is privately owned and not open to the public, it’s a favorite subject for photographers and history enthusiasts. Its remote, wave-swept location makes it a standout even among seasoned lighthouse explorers.
How to Visit: Graves Light is best seen by boat. Some Boston Harbor sightseeing cruises and private charters pass nearby, especially those offering lighthouse or sunset tours. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to get a closer look at its impressive stonework.
What to Expect: You won’t be able to set foot on the ledge, but viewing the lighthouse from the water still makes for a memorable experience — especially at golden hour, when the light plays off the waves and granite.
3. Minot’s Ledge Light
Minot’s Ledge Light is one of the most dramatic and historically significant offshore lighthouses in New England. Located about a mile off the coast of Cohasset, this wave-battered tower is anchored directly into the rocks of the ledge it was built to warn mariners about. It’s commonly cited as one of the best lighthouses near Boston.
Why Visit: Its remote location and storied past — including the tragic loss of the original lighthouse and two keepers in an 1851 storm — make it a symbol of resilience. It’s also known for its unique light pattern: one flash, then four, then three, which many interpret as “I Love You.”
How to Visit: Though the lighthouse is not open to the public, you can catch distant views from the shore in Cohasset or Scituate. For a closer look, consider booking a private boat tour or lighthouse cruise that includes Minot’s Ledge in its route.
What to Expect: Seeing Minot’s Ledge Light from the water offers a deeper appreciation for the engineering and bravery it took to build — and maintain — such an exposed station. It’s a striking sight, especially in rough weather.
4. Eastern Point Lighthouse
Marking the eastern entrance to Gloucester Harbor, Eastern Point Lighthouse is a classic New England light station with a long-standing connection to maritime safety. First lit in 1832 and rebuilt in 1890, it continues to serve as an active aid to navigation today and is one of the most popular lighthouses near Boston.
Why Visit: Located in one of Massachusetts’ oldest seaports, this lighthouse offers a mix of coastal beauty, history, and accessibility. It’s also the starting point of the long Dog Bar Breakwater, a favorite spot for walking and wave-watching.
How to Visit: Eastern Point Lighthouse is reachable by car and located at the end of Eastern Point Boulevard in Gloucester. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds and breakwater are open for exploration and photography.
What to Expect: You’ll get unobstructed views of the lighthouse from outside the gate, and if you walk out onto the breakwater, you’ll find sweeping views of the harbor, ocean, and rocky coastline — a perfect spot for a scenic pause or picnic.
5. Highland Lighthouse (Truro)
Also known as Cape Cod Light, Highland Lighthouse is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod. First established in 1797 and rebuilt in 1857, it has long been a critical beacon for ships navigating the treacherous coastline off Truro.
Why Visit: With its dramatic cliffside location and panoramic ocean views, Highland Light offers one of the best visitor experiences on the Cape. It’s also one of the few lighthouses in Massachusetts where you can climb the tower.
How to Visit: Located within the Cape Cod National Seashore, Highland Light is open seasonally for guided tours. There’s a visitor center and gift shop onsite, and ample parking is available nearby.
What to Expect: Climb the 69 steps to the top for sweeping views of the Atlantic, then explore the exhibits that highlight the lighthouse’s history, coastal erosion, and its multiple relocations inland to save it from the crumbling bluff.
6. Nauset Lighthouse (Eastham)
Easily one of the most recognizable lighthouses in New England, Nauset Light is famous for its bold red-and-white paint and its appearance on bags of Cape Cod Potato Chips. But beyond the branding, this historic light has a rich history and a striking coastal setting.
Why Visit: Nauset Light stands on the edge of a high bluff overlooking the Atlantic, offering classic Cape Cod views and a strong sense of place. It’s also been preserved and maintained by a dedicated nonprofit group, making it a symbol of local pride.
How to Visit: Located within Cape Cod National Seashore, the lighthouse is open for seasonal tours run by the Nauset Light Preservation Society. Visitors can explore the tower, learn about its 1996 relocation due to erosion, and enjoy nearby trails and beaches.
What to Expect: The setting is picturesque year-round, but especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. It’s also just a short walk from Coast Guard Beach, making it easy to combine lighthouse viewing with a beach day.
7. Race Point Lighthouse (Provincetown)
Tucked away in the dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Race Point Lighthouse offers a remote and rewarding experience for those willing to make the trek. Built in 1816 and still active today, this light once guided ships through the dangerous waters off Provincetown’s northern tip.
Why Visit: It’s one of the few lighthouses in New England where you can spend the night. The keeper’s house and whistle house are available for overnight stays, offering a truly unique coastal experience far from the crowds.
How to Visit: Race Point is accessible by foot or fat-tire bike along a sandy 2-mile path, or by 4WD vehicle with a permit. Tours of the lighthouse and grounds are offered seasonally by the Race Point Lighthouse Volunteers.
What to Expect: The journey is part of the adventure — expect soft sand, sweeping dune landscapes, and a quiet, windswept beach. If you stay overnight, prepare for stunning sunsets, stargazing, and the peaceful sound of the surf.
8. Wood End Lighthouse (Provincetown)
Just west of Race Point, Wood End Lighthouse stands at the edge of Provincetown’s breakwater, where Cape Cod’s sandy finger curves dramatically into the sea. First lit in 1872, this square, white tower is a hidden gem that rewards those willing to walk out to it.
Why Visit: Its remote setting, peaceful surroundings, and photogenic silhouette make it a favorite among lighthouse enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It’s also an excellent spot for birdwatching and catching sunset over the harbor.
How to Visit: The lighthouse is accessible via a 1.5-mile walk across the Provincetown Causeway — a granite breakwater that stretches through the harbor. It’s an uneven surface, so sturdy shoes and good timing with the tides are recommended.
What to Expect: Once you reach the end of the breakwater, you’ll find yourself on a quiet stretch of beach with panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay. While the lighthouse isn’t open for tours, the setting itself offers a peaceful retreat and great photo opportunities.
9. Cape Poge Lighthouse (Chappaquiddick Island)
Cape Poge Lighthouse sits on the northeastern tip of Chappaquiddick Island, part of Martha’s Vineyard. Built in 1893 and moved several times due to shoreline erosion, this cedar-shingled tower watches over a quiet stretch of sand and sea.
Why Visit: Its isolated beauty and connection to the surrounding wildlife refuge make it a must-visit for nature lovers. It’s also one of the few island lighthouses that offers guided over-sand vehicle tours to help visitors reach it.
How to Visit: The lighthouse is located within the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, managed by The Trustees. Guided tours depart from the Mytoi Garden parking area and require advance reservations. Without a tour, getting there involves a long hike over soft sand, best suited for experienced adventurers.
What to Expect: Expect a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience with sweeping coastal views, wild beaches, and a glimpse into the Vineyard’s wilder side. The guided tour includes access to the lighthouse tower and interpretive info about its history and ecology.
10. Gay Head Lighthouse (Aquinnah)
Perched above the dramatic, multicolored clay cliffs of Aquinnah on Martha’s Vineyard, Gay Head Lighthouse is one of the most scenic and culturally significant lights in New England. Originally built in 1799 and rebuilt in 1856, it was moved inland in 2015 to save it from erosion.
Why Visit: The lighthouse offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and is deeply tied to the history of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah). It’s a symbol of both resilience and coastal heritage.
How to Visit: The lighthouse is open seasonally for tours, typically during the summer months. It’s located at the end of Lighthouse Road in Aquinnah, with parking nearby and a short walk to the viewing area.
What to Expect: From the base, you’ll have an incredible view of the iconic cliffs below and the distant Elizabeth Islands. Inside, seasonal tours allow you to climb the tower and learn about its relocation and local significance.
11. Brant Point Lighthouse (Nantucket)
Brant Point Lighthouse is one of the most photographed and beloved landmarks on Nantucket. First established in 1746 (and rebuilt several times), it’s the second oldest lighthouse station in the United States and continues to welcome ferries into the harbor today.
Why Visit: Its quaint size, charming location, and historical importance make it a must-see for visitors to the island. It’s also easily accessible, making it one of the most visitor-friendly lighthouses in the region.
How to Visit: Located just a short walk from downtown Nantucket, Brant Point is easy to reach on foot or by bike. There’s no need for a car, and the light is viewable year-round.
What to Expect: You won’t be able to go inside the tower, but the surrounding beach offers excellent photo ops — especially as ferries pass by. It’s a classic place to watch the sun set or toss a penny off the dock for good luck before leaving the island.
12. Sankaty Head Lighthouse (Nantucket)
Located on the eastern edge of Nantucket in the village of Siasconset, Sankaty Head Lighthouse is one of the island’s most striking landmarks. Its bold red and white bands stand out against the surrounding moors and ocean backdrop, making it a favorite subject for photographers.
Why Visit: Sankaty offers a combination of natural beauty and engineering history. In 2007, the entire lighthouse was moved back from the edge of an eroding bluff — a feat that underscores the island’s constant battle with the sea.
How to Visit: You can reach Sankaty by car or bike, following the scenic Polpis Road or Milestone Road to Siasconset. The lighthouse grounds are open year-round, though the tower itself is only open on select dates.
What to Expect: The open landscape around Sankaty offers sweeping views of the Atlantic, and its remote location means you’ll often have the site to yourself. It’s a peaceful, windswept spot that feels far from the bustle of Nantucket town.
13. Edgartown Harbor Lighthouse (Martha’s Vineyard)
Situated at the entrance to Edgartown’s picturesque harbor, this elegant white lighthouse stands as one of the most accessible and beloved beacons on Martha’s Vineyard. First established in 1828 and rebuilt in 1939, it continues to guide vessels while serving as a scenic highlight of the waterfront.
Why Visit: Its walkable location, postcard-perfect views, and central role in island history make Edgartown Harbor Light a favorite among visitors. It’s also the site of a moving Children’s Memorial, honoring lives lost too soon.
How to Visit: Just a short stroll from downtown Edgartown, the lighthouse sits at the end of a sandy path near Lighthouse Beach. It’s open for seasonal tours managed by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum.
What to Expect: Enjoy serene views of the harbor and Chappaquiddick Island. If you tour the lighthouse, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas from the lantern room and exhibits that tell the story of the light and its keepers.
14. West Chop Lighthouse (Martha’s Vineyard)
Overlooking Vineyard Haven Harbor, West Chop Lighthouse is one of the three lighthouses on Martha’s Vineyard and has been guiding mariners since 1817. The current brick tower dates back to 1891 and continues to operate as an active aid to navigation.
Why Visit: While not open to the public, West Chop Light is still worth a visit for lighthouse enthusiasts interested in seeing all of the island’s beacons. Its quiet, residential setting offers a different, more understated lighthouse experience.
How to Visit: The lighthouse is located in a private residential area north of Vineyard Haven. Visitors can view it from the road, but access to the tower and immediate grounds is restricted. Be respectful of the neighborhood while visiting.
What to Expect: Though views are limited, the lighthouse’s historic presence and harbor setting provide a peaceful detour, especially if you’re touring the island by car or bike.
15. East Chop Lighthouse (Martha’s Vineyard)
Perched on a grassy bluff above Oak Bluffs Harbor, East Chop Lighthouse is a classic white tower with sweeping views of Nantucket Sound. Built in 1878, it once served as a vital mid-point guide between nearby beacons in Edgartown and Vineyard Haven.
Why Visit: It’s one of the best places on the island to catch a sunset and enjoy panoramic views of boats coming and going. The lighthouse also has a timeless charm that makes it a favorite for photographers and couples alike.
How to Visit: East Chop Light is typically open to the public on Sunday evenings in summer, though the surrounding bluff is accessible year-round. It’s a short drive or bike ride from downtown Oak Bluffs, with roadside parking available.
What to Expect: Bring a blanket and enjoy the view — especially in the golden hour. While tours are limited, the peaceful setting and elevated vantage point make this a rewarding stop on any Martha’s Vineyard lighthouse tour.
Planning Your Lighthouse Tour
Exploring lighthouses near Boston can be as easy as a quick harbor cruise or as adventurous as an island-hopping weekend. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall is ideal. Many lighthouses are only open for tours seasonally (typically May through October), and ferry services to island destinations run more frequently during this time.
Getting Around:
- By Car: A vehicle is useful for reaching mainland lighthouses like Highland, Nauset, and Eastern Point.
- By Ferry: For Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket lighthouses, ferries depart from Woods Hole, Hyannis, and New Bedford.
- By Boat Tour: Several Boston-based harbor cruises offer lighthouse-specific tours, including views of Boston Light, Graves Light, and Minot’s Ledge.
- By Foot or Bike: Some lights (like Race Point or Wood End) require walking or biking through dunes or across breakwaters. Check access conditions in advance.
Tips for Visitors:
- Check tour schedules: Many lighthouses are maintained by nonprofits and only open on certain days.
- Respect access rules: Not all lighthouses are open to the public — some are privately owned or in residential areas.
- Bring the right gear: Sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and water are essentials for longer hikes or coastal walks.
- Photography: For the best lighting, visit during golden hour — shortly after sunrise or before sunset.
Bonus Resource: Want help planning your trip? Download our free New England Lighthouse Visitors Guide — packed with tips, map suggestions, and seasonal highlights to make your visit easier and more rewarding.
