Discover 15 Picturesque Long Island Lighthouses Along the Atlantic Coast

Long Island, a beacon of maritime history and coastal beauty, is home to some of the most picturesque and historically significant lighthouses in the United States. These coastal sentinels, from the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse to the hidden gem of Horton Point, not only guide mariners but also captivate visitors with their scenic views and rich stories. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of lighthouse photography, or seeking lighthouse beaches for a tranquil escape, Long Island’s lighthouses offer something for everyone. Their importance stretches beyond navigational aids; they stand as enduring symbols of resilience against coastal erosion, keepers of the past, and focal points of community pride.

As you embark on this exploration of 15 picturesque Long Island lighthouses, you will discover not just their beauty and architectural marvels but also their significant roles in maritime history and modern navigation. From the Fresnel lens that revolutionized lighthouse illumination to the lighthouses listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this journey will take you along the Atlantic coast, providing insights into lighthouse museums, architecture, and the efforts to preserve these majestic structures. Whether you’re searching for lighthouses near you, planning a comprehensive east coast lighthouse tour, or interested in lighthouse accommodations, this guide offers a roadmap to some of the most beautiful lighthouses in New England and along the east coast, including how to access lighthouse tours and embrace the unique experiences they offer.

Montauk Point Lighthouse

Montauk Point Lighthouse History

Commissioned by President George Washington in 1792, Montauk Point Lighthouse holds the distinction of being the first lighthouse in New York State and the fourth oldest active lighthouse in the United States. The construction of this historic beacon began on June 7, 1796, and it was completed on November 5 of the same year. Notably, it was the first public works project of the new United States, designed by John McComb who also built other significant structures like Gracie Mansion .

Montauk Point Lighthouse Features

Standing 110 feet tall, the Montauk Point Lighthouse is constructed from sandstone blocks and features walls that are six feet thick at the base, tapering to three feet at the top. In 1860, the lighthouse was heightened by 30 feet, and a new lantern room was added. The lighthouse's beacon, a 3-½ order Fresnel lens, served from 1903 until 1987 and is now displayed in the lighthouse museum. This museum not only showcases the lighthouse's operational history but also offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound from the top of its 137 iron steps .

Visiting Montauk Point Lighthouse

Visitors to Montauk Point Lighthouse can explore the museum housed in the 1860 Keepers' house, which features historical documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the lighthouse's history and the whaling industry. Admission prices and parking details vary, with specific discounts available for seniors and Empire Pass holders. The lighthouse and museum are accessible by car, following directions from I-495 or via public transportation options like the Long Island Railroad or Hampton Jitney. Group tours can be arranged by contacting the museum office directly .

Fire Island Lighthouse

Fire Island Lighthouse History

Commissioned in 1826, the original Fire Island Lighthouse was a modest 74-foot structure made from Connecticut River blue stone . It was replaced in 1858 by the current 168-foot tall stone tower to enhance visibility and navigational aid . This lighthouse has witnessed significant historical changes and was reinstated as an official navigational aid in 1986 after restoration efforts by the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society .

Fire Island Lighthouse Features

The Fire Island Lighthouse stands out with its distinctive black and white spiral pattern, making it a prominent feature on the coastline . It houses a first-order Fresnel lens from 1858, which remained operational until 1933 and now resides in the nearby Lens Building for public viewing . The tower itself invites visitors to climb its 192 steps for a panoramic view that includes the New York City skyline on clear days .

Visiting Fire Island Lighthouse

Located at the western end of the Fire Island National Seashore, near Robert Moses State Park, the lighthouse is accessible via a scenic boardwalk from Parking Field #5 . It offers a rich educational experience with exhibits on maritime history and the life of lighthouse keepers in its Keeper's Quarters and Lens Building . Regular tower tours are available, providing a unique perspective of Long Island and the surrounding waters .

Horton Point Lighthouse

Horton Point Lighthouse History

Constructed in 1857 by the U.S. Lighthouse Service, Horton Point Lighthouse is nestled on the historical "Cliff Lot" of Barnabas Horton's original 1640 land grant in Southold Township, New York. This historic structure has undergone several changes over the years, including a significant restoration in 1990 that revitalized both the interior and exterior of the tower. Today, it proudly stands as a beacon on the National Register of Historic Places .

Horton Point Lighthouse Features

The lighthouse features a 58-foot tall tower built from brick, characterized by its distinctive white tower and red roof. Originally equipped with a 3rd order Fresnel lens, the lighthouse was automated in 1933, marking the end of its manual operation. The ground level of the adjoining keeper's house now serves as the Southold Historical Museum's Nautical Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of Long Island .

Visiting Horton Point Lighthouse

Open to the public during the summer months, Horton Point Lighthouse offers a unique experience for visitors. For a small admission fee, you can explore the Nautical Museum and enjoy panoramic views of Long Island Sound from the top of the lighthouse. The site is accessible via the Southold Park District's parking lot, with specific parking fees applicable for non-residents. This location is not just a lighthouse but a journey through history and a perfect spot for those interested in maritime heritage .

Execution Rocks Lighthouse

Execution Rocks Lighthouse History

Commissioned by the United States Congress in 1847 with a budget of $25,000, the Execution Rocks Lighthouse was designed by Alexander Parris and completed in 1849, although it wasn't operational until 1850 . This lighthouse has a storied history, having survived both a fire and a shipwreck over the years . The name "Execution Rocks" is believed to originate from the grisly legend of Revolutionary War prisoners being chained to the rocks and left to drown at high tide .

Execution Rocks Lighthouse Features

The lighthouse stands 55 feet tall and is marked by a distinctive white light that flashes every 10 seconds . Its structure includes a granite tower painted white with a brown band around the middle and an attached stone keeper's house, which has remained uninhabited since the lighthouse was automated in 1979 . The design reflects early "wave-swept tower" engineering, aimed at withstanding harsh oceanic conditions .

Visiting Execution Rocks Lighthouse

Although the lighthouse itself is off-limits to the public, it can be viewed during the Long Island Lighthouse Society's Spring Cold Coast Cruise or from the Throgs Neck Bridge . For those interested in a closer look, the lighthouse is periodically accessible through tours organized by the New York Adventure Club, offering a unique opportunity to explore this historic beacon .

Orient Point Lighthouse

Orient Point Lighthouse History

Orient Point Lighthouse, often referred to as "The Coffee Pot," stands proudly at the easternmost tip of the North Fork of Long Island, marking the entrance to the Long Island Sound. Built in 1899, this historic beacon has been guiding mariners through the challenging waters of Plum Gut since its inception. The lighthouse was initially constructed to address the riptides and strong currents that made navigation perilous in this area .

Orient Point Lighthouse Features

The structure of Orient Point Lighthouse is a testament to its resilience and architectural uniqueness. It features a 63-foot tall brick tower, painted in a distinctive red and white color scheme, which not only aids in visibility but also adds to its aesthetic appeal. The lighthouse is equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens, installed to replace an initially weaker lens, that emits a white flash every 10 seconds, visible for up to 14 miles . The robust circular cast-iron and brick-lined structure was nearly demolished in 1970 but was saved by public efforts, highlighting its importance to the community .

Visiting Orient Point Lighthouse

While the lighthouse itself is not open for public tours, it offers a compelling view from nearby points. You can get a good look at the lighthouse by taking the Orient Point/New London Ferry or by walking along the south shore of the point. The area around the lighthouse features a small museum that showcases the operational history of this maritime icon . For those interested in lighthouse photography or scenic views, the surrounding area of Orient Point provides a picturesque backdrop against the historic structure.

Huntington Harbor Lighthouse

Huntington Harbor Lighthouse History

The Huntington Harbor Lighthouse, originally known as Lloyd Harbor Lighthouse, was established in 1857, with the current structure being lit for the first time in 1912 . This lighthouse played a crucial role in aiding navigation into Huntington Harbor and was built on a reef extending from West Neck . The structure's unique "castle" style in Beaux-Arts design and its construction using a cast reinforced concrete foundation set it apart in architectural history .

Huntington Harbor Lighthouse Features

Standing 40 feet tall, this lighthouse is an active aid to navigation, its light visible for 12 miles . The distinctive tower, painted white, is not just a navigational aid but also a historical beacon maintained by the United States Coast Guard . The lighthouse's foundation was uniquely constructed on land, then floated to its current location and sunk to create a stable base .

Visiting Huntington Harbor Lighthouse

Visitors can explore the grounds and view the lighthouse's exterior, although the interior is not open to the public . For a closer experience, you can join a guided tour, which includes a boat ride from the Town of Huntington's Goldstar Battalion Beach . Tours are available but require reservations for larger groups, and it's important to wear appropriate footwear as the lighthouse is not accessible for those wearing flip-flops or without flat, rubber-soled shoes .

Cedar Island Lighthouse

Cedar Island Lighthouse History

Cedar Island Lighthouse has been a guardian of Sag Harbor since 1839, originally aiding the bustling whaling industry. Reconstructed in 1868 to support the growing maritime activities, this lighthouse has witnessed the transformation of Sag Harbor into a significant East Coast port . Despite being decommissioned in 1934, the lighthouse remains a historic emblem, enduring through private ownership and natural calamities, including a notable hurricane in 1938 that connected it to the mainland .

Cedar Island Lighthouse Features

This lighthouse, standing 40 feet tall, is crafted from robust granite and showcases the Italianate architectural style. It's not only a daymark for modern sailors but also a piece of history, having survived a fire in 1974 which led to the sealing of its interior. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, emphasizing its significance in maritime history .

Visiting Cedar Island Lighthouse

While direct access to the lighthouse is limited, the surrounding Cedar Point County Park offers views and a historical context of the lighthouse's role in guiding ships safely to Sag Harbor. Efforts by the Long Island Chapter of the United States Lighthouse Society aim to restore the lighthouse fully, preserving its legacy for future generations .

Plum Island Lighthouse

Plum Island Lighthouse History

Plum Island Lighthouse, also known as Newburyport Harbor Light, has a rich history dating back to its first lighting in 1788. It was established to guide mariners into the Merrimack River and Newburyport Harbor, a crucial aid given the perilous local waters . Originally constructed as a wooden structure, it underwent significant transformations, including a rebuild in brick in 1855 which increased its height to 55 feet . The lighthouse has been moved several times due to shifting sands and was last rebuilt in 1898 .

Plum Island Lighthouse Features

This historic beacon stands out with its distinctive red brick tower and white keeper's house. Though it no longer serves as an active aid to navigation, the lighthouse's light, visible for up to 15 miles, historically guided ships through the challenging Plum Gut channel . The structure of the lighthouse is similar to those at Sheffield Island and Morgan Point, reflecting a common architectural style for the period .

Visiting Plum Island Lighthouse

Plum Island Lighthouse is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is open for tours during the summer months. While the lighthouse itself is not open for public visits regularly, the Friends of Plum Island Light offer periodic tours, providing a unique opportunity to explore this historic site . The surrounding area, including the Park River National Wildlife Refuge, offers picturesque views and a tranquil setting ideal for photography and scenic enjoyment .

Stepping Stones Lighthouse

Stepping Stones Lighthouse History

Stepping Stones Lighthouse, a Victorian-style beacon constructed in 1876, is situated in Long Island Sound, Nassau County, New York. This historical lighthouse was built to guide mariners navigating the perilous waters filled with extensive rocks and shoals extending from Kings Point . The lighthouse's unique name derives from local Native American legends, where it is said that the devil used the rocks as stepping stones to escape from warriors .

Stepping Stones Lighthouse Features

The lighthouse is a striking figure with its red brick, square-shaped structure standing one-and-a-half stories high . Originally equipped with a fifth-order Fresnel lens, the lighthouse now uses a modern optic system, maintaining its role as a vital aid to navigation . The architectural design mirrors that of the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, showcasing the distinctive Victorian Second Empire style .

Visiting Stepping Stones Lighthouse

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, it offers a picturesque view from several vantage points like Great Neck, City Island, and the Throgs Neck Bridge . For those interested in a closer look, the lighthouse is accessible only during guided tours, which provide a unique opportunity to appreciate its historical significance and architectural details .

Little Gull Island Lighthouse

Little Gull Island Lighthouse History

Little Gull Island Lighthouse, marking its initial establishment in 1806, underwent a significant transformation with a replacement structure built in 1869 . This lighthouse has been a beacon of guidance through the waters of Long Island Sound, notably referred to as "The Coffee Pot" . Its historical significance is further highlighted by its resilience during the War of 1812 when British forces seized and extinguished the light .

Little Gull Island Lighthouse Features

Constructed on a sturdy granite pier, the current tower of Little Gull Island Lighthouse stands 81 feet tall and is built from granite . Its conical tower, topped with a second-order Fresnel lens installed in 1869, continues to operate under automation since 1978 . The natural markings and separate structure of the tower enhance its historical authenticity and operational integrity.

Visiting Little Gull Island Lighthouse

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, it offers a picturesque view from nearby points and is a favorite subject for lighthouse photography enthusiasts . The surrounding area provides a tranquil setting, ideal for those looking to enjoy scenic views or delve into the rich maritime history of Long Island Sound.

Latimer Reef Lighthouse

Latimer Reef Lighthouse History

Latimer Reef Lighthouse, established in 1884, marks a crucial navigation point at the east end of Fisher's Island Sound, near Mystic, Connecticut. Historically, the area was marked by an iron spindle from as early as 1800, which was later replaced by a buoy before the construction of the lighthouse. This location, known for its dangerous waters, was further aided by the Eel Grass Shoal Lightship for 35 years before the lighthouse's establishment .

Latimer Reef Lighthouse Features

Constructed from cast iron with a brick lining, the Latimer Reef Lighthouse stands 49 feet tall with a focal plane at 55 feet. Initially equipped with a fifth-order Fresnel lens from Paris, it was upgraded to a fourth-order Fresnel lens in 1899 to enhance its light's reach. The lighthouse's design is a typical example of offshore "sparkplug" lighthouses from the late 19th century, featuring a cylindrical foundation filled with concrete and a distinctive white with a brown band paint scheme .

Visiting Latimer Reef Lighthouse

While Latimer Reef Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation and is not open to the public, it offers a picturesque view from private boats. The lighthouse can be seen from the shore and ferries in the area, but for the best experience, approaching by boat is recommended. Notably, it continues to serve as a critical navigational aid, with its light flashing white every six seconds, visible from a significant distance .

North Dumpling Lighthouse

North Dumpling Lighthouse History

North Dumpling Lighthouse, located on the north side of Fishers Island, was constructed in 1849 and has a storied past filled with intriguing characters. Its keepers, over the years, have ranged from ordinary to the extraordinary, including accusations of signaling to liquor smugglers during Prohibition . The lighthouse was initially built following the purchase of the island by John Winthrop in 1639, and it remained in the Winthrop family until 1847 when it was sold to the federal government. The light was first illuminated in 1859, underwent a rebuild in 1871, and was eventually deactivated in 1959 .

North Dumpling Lighthouse Features

This lighthouse is characterized by its 31-foot tall red brick structure with a fixed white light. It was originally equipped with a fifth-order Fresnel lens in 1893, replacing an earlier sixth-order lens installed in 1871. The lighthouse's architectural style includes a distinctive two-story red brick design with a mansard roof added during the 1871 rebuild . Despite its deactivation, the lighthouse retains its historic charm and continues to be a significant landmark on North Dumpling Island.

Visiting North Dumpling Lighthouse

Currently, North Dumpling Lighthouse is privately owned by Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway Scooter, and is not open to the public. However, it can be viewed from a boat, offering a unique glimpse into the private "Kingdom of North Dumpling" as dubbed by its current owner. The lighthouse and its surroundings provide a picturesque scene for photography and are a testament to the rich maritime history of the area .

Race Rock Lighthouse

Race Rock Lighthouse History

Race Rock Lighthouse, a marvel of 19th-century engineering, was constructed between 1871 and 1878 under the guidance of Francis Hopkinson Smith. The foundation itself, a challenging feat due to the underwater ledge 3/4 mile from Race Point Reef, required seven years and 10,000 tons of granite to complete. The actual structure, including the keeper's quarters and the tower, was impressively built in just nine months following the foundation's completion. This lighthouse was crucial as, by 1837, eight vessels had already been lost in eight years at Race Point reef .

Race Rock Lighthouse Features

Standing 67 feet tall above the waterline, Race Rock Lighthouse features a fourth-order Fresnel lens and a robust design tailored for the harsh conditions of Long Island Sound. The lighthouse's foundation is a testament to enduring construction techniques, with a riprap foundation and a circular-stepped mass of concrete that supports the granite tower and dwelling. This structure is not only functional but also historically significant, having been added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 .

Visiting Race Rock Lighthouse

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, it offers a spectacular view from the water. The lighthouse stands at the mouth of the Race, where the waters of Long Island Sound rush with great velocity, making it a notable landmark for those navigating or touring the area. In 2011, the New London Maritime society took ownership under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act program, ensuring its preservation for future generations .

Sands Point Lighthouse

Sands Point Lighthouse History

Established in 1809, Sands Point Lighthouse, also known as the Mitchell Lighthouse, was the fourth lighthouse built on Long Island. It was constructed to enhance maritime safety by marking the dangerous Execution Rocks before the Execution Rocks Lighthouse existed . Funded by a Congressional grant of $6,000, thanks to Senator Samuel L. Mitchell's advocacy, the lighthouse was built on land purchased from Benjamin Hewlett in 1808, which was then donated to the federal government . Revolutionary War hero Noah Mason, who had previously helped construct forts, was awarded the construction contract and later became the lighthouse's first keeper, a role he held until 1841 .

Sands Point Lighthouse Features

The lighthouse is an octagonal stone tower, originally standing 40 feet tall and featuring a distinctive architectural style with its coursed brown stone construction . Initially equipped with eleven lamps and reflectors, it was updated in 1856 with a fifth-order Fresnel lens, enhancing its beam to cover a wider range . The keeper's house, originally a wood frame structure, was replaced with a brick dwelling in 1867 following extensive renovations funded by Congress .

Visiting Sands Point Lighthouse

While the Sands Point Lighthouse has been deactivated since 1922 and remains on private property, it was designated a village landmark by the Village of Sands Point in 1992 . The original lighthouse and keeper's house have been well-preserved by their private owners. Today, the only way to view the lighthouse is from the water, where it continues to be an iconic figure along the North Shore of Long Island .

Eaton's Neck Lighthouse

Eaton's Neck Lighthouse History

Eaton's Neck Lighthouse has been a pivotal navigational aid since its inception in 1798 . Designed by the notable John McComb, Jr., it stands as one of the two remaining 18th-century lighthouses in New York State, alongside Montauk Point Light . The construction was authorized by President John Adams on July 2, 1798, with the lighthouse first lighting up on January 1, 1799 . Over the years, it underwent several upgrades to enhance its visibility and functionality, including the installation of a third-order Fresnel lens in 1858 and electrification in 1921 .

Eaton's Neck Lighthouse Features

This lighthouse is not only functional but also architecturally significant, standing at 73 feet with an octagonal sandstone tower . Its foundation is robust, constructed from brick, sandstone, and cement, which supports a 1000-watt quartz bulb with 150,000 candlepower . The lens, crafted by the Henry-Lepaute Company of Paris, remains a critical component, ensuring the light's reach and effectiveness as a navigational aid .

Visiting Eaton's Neck Lighthouse

While Eaton's Neck Lighthouse continues to operate as an active navigational aid within a US Coast Guard station, it is not currently open to the public . Its historical significance and architectural beauty can be appreciated from nearby locations, offering a glimpse into Long Island's rich maritime history. The lighthouse's setting at the entrance of Huntington Bay marks a picturesque landscape, ideal for those interested in lighthouse photography and coastal views .

Conclusion

Throughout this exploration of Long Island’s lighthouses, we've journeyed from the historic sands of Montauk Point Lighthouse to the architectural splendor of Eaton's Neck Lighthouse, unveiling not only the stunning beauty and architectural feats of these coastal beacons but also their indispensable roles in maritime history and navigation. The significance of these lighthouses extends beyond their practical use as navigational aids; they symbolize resilience, heritage, and the enduring importance of maritime safety. The stories encapsulated within their walls and the scenic vistas they offer remind us of the intertwined history of humanity and the sea.

As we conclude, it's clear that these lighthouses are more than just picturesque landmarks dotting the Atlantic coast; they are keepers of history, guiding lights for mariners, and iconic symbols of our collective past. Whether through the lens of history enthusiasts, architectural admirers, or those simply drawn to the serene beauty of the coast, Long Island's lighthouses continue to enchant and beckon. Their continued preservation ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy and learn from these majestic structures, highlighting the ongoing relevance of lighthouses in both our culture and maritime pursuits.

FAQs

1. How many lighthouses exist on Long Island, New York?
Long Island has a rich heritage with over 25 lighthouses built since 1796, highlighting its deep connection to these historic maritime beacons.

2. Which lighthouse is considered the most beautiful in the world?
Peggy's Point Lighthouse, located near Halifax, Nova Scotia, is regarded as one of the world's most beautiful lighthouses. It features a distinctive chalk-white tower and red lantern room, and it stands on a rugged peninsula strewn with large boulders. This lighthouse was constructed in 1915 and is situated about an hour from Halifax.

3. What is the oldest lighthouse located on Long Island?
The Montauk Point Light, also known as Montauk Point Lighthouse, holds the title of the oldest lighthouse on Long Island. It is positioned at the easternmost point of Long Island in Montauk, New York, next to Montauk Point State Park. Notably, it was the first lighthouse built in the state of New York and was the inaugural public works project of the new United States.

4. What is the admission fee for visiting the Fire Island Lighthouse?
Visitors can enjoy tower tours of the Fire Island Lighthouse daily up to one hour before the facility closes. It is advisable to call 631-583-5901 for the most current hours of operation. The tour costs $10 per adult, with proceeds supporting the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society.