Discover Nantucket's Lighthouses
Nantucket’s lighthouses have guided sailors through its foggy shores and shifting sandbars for centuries. From the iconic Brant Point Light to the rugged beauty of Great Point Light, these historic beacons remain symbols of the island’s deep maritime heritage. Explore Nantucket’s lighthouses and their enduring role in coastal navigation.
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Great Point Lighthouse
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Located at the northernmost tip of Nantucket, Great Point Lighthouse stands as a remote and picturesque beacon. Originally built in 1784 and rebuilt after a fire in 1986, it continues to guide ships through the shifting sands and strong currents of Nantucket Sound, offering breathtaking views for those who visit.
Interactive Map: Nantucket Lighthouses
Most Popular Lighthouses on Nantucket
Nantucket is home to three iconic lighthouses, each with its own unique charm. Brant Point Lighthouse, established in 1746, is the second-oldest lighthouse in the U.S. and welcomes visitors arriving by ferry.
Great Point Lighthouse, standing at the island’s northernmost tip, offers stunning views but requires a four-wheel-drive journey. Sankaty Head Lighthouse, perched on the cliffs of Siasconset, has been a guiding light since 1850 and was moved inland in 2007 to protect it from erosion. These beacons define Nantucket’s maritime history.
The History of Lighthouses on Nantucket
Nantucket’s lighthouses have been guiding ships safely through the island’s treacherous waters for centuries. The first lighthouse on the island, Brant Point Lighthouse, was built in 1746, making it the second-oldest lighthouse in the United States. Originally constructed to help sailors navigate the busy waters of Nantucket Harbor, the lighthouse has been rebuilt and updated several times. Today, the current structure, built in 1901, remains a beloved symbol of the island and greets visitors arriving by ferry.
In 1784, Great Point Lighthouse was constructed at the northernmost tip of Nantucket Island to aid vessels navigating the shifting sands and dangerous currents of Nantucket Sound. The original structure was replaced in 1986 after a fire, and the lighthouse now stands as a remote but striking landmark accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse, built in 1850, stands on the cliffs of Siasconset, guiding ships around the island’s southeastern shore. In 2007, to protect it from coastal erosion, the lighthouse was moved inland 400 feet—a rare and remarkable preservation effort. These lighthouses, with their rich histories, continue to serve as navigational aids while also attracting visitors eager to learn about Nantucket’s maritime past.
Nantucket Lighthouse FAQs
Can you visit Nantucket’s lighthouses?
Yes! Brant Point Lighthouse is easily accessible and can be visited year-round. Great Point Lighthouse requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle or guided tour to reach, making it a more remote destination. Sankaty Head Lighthouse is open for tours during the warmer months, allowing visitors to explore the site and enjoy stunning views of the island.
How many lighthouses are on Nantucket?
Nantucket is home to three active lighthouses: Brant Point Lighthouse, the oldest and most accessible, Great Point Lighthouse at the island’s northern tip, and Sankaty Head Lighthouse on the southeastern shore. These historic beacons have guided sailors for centuries and remain iconic symbols of Nantucket’s rich maritime heritage.
Why was Sankaty Head Lighthouse moved?
Sankaty Head Lighthouse was moved in 2007 due to erosion threatening its foundation. The lighthouse, perched on the island’s southeastern cliffs, had gradually been at risk of falling into the sea. To preserve this historic beacon, it was relocated 400 feet inland, ensuring its continued role in guiding ships and protecting Nantucket’s maritime heritage.
How old is Brant Point Lighthouse?
Brant Point Lighthouse was first built in 1746, making it the second-oldest lighthouse in the United States. Though the structure has been rebuilt and updated several times, it remains a vital symbol of Nantucket’s maritime history and continues to guide vessels into the island’s busy harbor.