The Northeast
Jamestown, Rhode Island
Off the coast of Newport lies a village of 5,500 called Jamestown, Rhode Island. While lesser-known, this quintessential New England gem is abundant in lighthouses, lobster rolls, and ocean-sprayed cliffs.
Along with salty spray and seagull calls, you’ll find wooded hiking trails lining the cliffs, shacks slinging silky oysters and buttery lobster, and breweries serving drinks strong enough to grant you a pair of sea legs. The main street charms with just a single blinking red light, shingled seaside bungalows, and droves of lighthouses guiding the way.
Beavertail Lighthouse
Located on the southernmost tip of Jamestown, the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum features a collection of information, artifacts, and conversation about the history and site of the third-oldest lighthouse in North America.
© Discover Newport
Local Lodging
While Jamestown is one of the most storybook small towns in all of New England, a 44-minute drive to buzzier Providence will absolutely be worth your while when you stay at The Dean Hotel. The 52-room boutique hotel bodies historic Providence, and with a craft cocktail bar, a karaoke lounge, and a beer garden, it proves Providence to be more than just a sleepy college town.
Intimate and discreet, meet friends, strangers, and lovers at The Dean Bar, open every day but Monday until 12 AM, with special 2 AM hours on Friday & Saturday.
Little Brewster Island, Massachusetts
The country’s oldest light station, to visit Little Brewster, you must take an organized tour. Here, you can learn about Boston’s maritime history during a narrated sail around the harbor, passing the iconic Boston Light.
Boston Light
Casting a light beam 27 miles into the Atlantic, the historic Boston Light is the oldest lighthouse in America. Overlooking the sea from Little Brewster Island, it was first lit on September 14, 1716.
© Daniel Brubaker via Unsplash
When the British took over, the beacon was ordered to be destroyed by General George Washington so as to not aid the enemy, but after the war, in 1783, a new lighthouse was built on the site of the old, reusing some of the original materials at the base. This new lighthouse, which stands today, was built seventy-five feet high with seven-foot walls at the base, tapering to less than three feet at the top.
In 2003, Dr. Sally Snowman was hired as keeper, becoming the 70th keeper, and the first female, to serve at Boston Light. Sally shares the the five-year initiative to restore all of the buildings on the island with visitors, including a complete resurfacing of the lighthouse, which culminated with the 300th anniversary of the celebrated lighthouse in 2016.
Local Lodging
Salty air, smooth sounds, and sensational seafood; Rowes Wharf brings the best of a New England summer with sun-drenched days and breezy nights.
The shining gem of Rowes Wharf, Boston Harbor Hotel is a waterfront sanctuary only ~ 4 minutes from Little Brewster Island.
© Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf
Over in historic Beacon Hill, The Whitney Hotel is a 65-room luxury boutique hotel setting itself apart with simple gestures and a generous spirit.
New York, New York
The guiding light of culture, New York City shines bright like a diamond.
Little Red Lighthouse
Running along the Hudson River, Fort Washington Park is home to Manhattan’s only remaining lighthouse.
© Jeff Burak via Unsplash
This big in color but small in size structure acquired its affectionate nickname from Hildegarde H. Swift’s 1942 children’s classic, “The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge”.
Local Lodging
To stay on theme, there's no better way to see the city than from the water. So hop aboard a charter with Monty's Ark Adventures, the best boat tour in NYC!
For more long-term shelter, stay at SoHo's most sophisticated sanctuary, Hotel Hugo! Tucked beside the Hudson, this hotel makes Lower Manhattan a modern-day mecca for artists, publishers, and design enthusiasts. Plus, it's around half an hour to Washington Heights where you can visit the lighthouse.
Long Island, New York
Those who prefer beaches over buildings should get to know New York City’s other island, Long Island. Roughly 25 historic lighthouses dot its shores, many of which are now museums that offer a glimpse of Long Island’s maritime history.
Fire Island Lighthouse
Originally built in 1857, the lighthouse has been restored by the Fire Island Preservation Society and is open to the public as a museum and observatory.
© The Citizens Voice
Local Lodging
Less than an hour away, The Garden City Hotel is an iconic retreat beloved for its timeless elegance and modern-day comfort.
The Southeast
Charleston County, South Carolina
Full of old-world charm, Charleston is a port city defined by its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and pastel antebellum houses, particularly in the elegant French Quarter and Battery districts.
Morris Island Lighthouse
Despite its current status as a defunct light, The Morris Island Lighthouse illuminates Folly Beach. The community’s guiding light, the official organization hosts events to raise funds for the preservation of the relic and has even procured construction of a cement barrier to help further uphold the tower in all its glory.
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© Secret Charleston
The third lighthouse to occupy the site, the landmark was built just after the War Between States, with construction commencing in 1872 and concluding four years later in the fall of 1866. Now, the lighthouse is preserved by the State of South Carolina and is under a 99-year contract with Save the Light, Inc. to preserve the historical structure through stabilization, erosion, and restoration.
While any month is a good month for an oyster roast, it’s commonly held that with cooler weather comes the best-tasting oysters. Last year, the Save the Light Oyster Roast and Reunion was held on January 9th, but dates for this year have yet to be announced. Keep an eye out for any announcements on the organization's website, or you can contact them directly for more information.
Local Lodging
Just south of the popular City Market, The Loutrel sits at the northern edge of Charleston's French Quarter, known for its Huguenot roots and galleries full of art. Even the least likely to identify as a history buff will marvel at the colonial, antebellum, and Victorian architecture surrounding the property, but at this hotel, you can retreat to the comforts of the 21st century as well.
Lowcountry, South Carolina
The southern half of the South Carolina coast is a tangle of islands cut off from the mainland by inlets and tidal marshes. The landscape ranges from tidy stretches of shimmery, oyster-gray sand to wild, moss-shrouded maritime forests.
Here, you'll find Hilton Head Island, the state's crown jewel.
Harbour Town Lighthouse
A visit to the Lowcountry isn’t complete without paying a visit to Harbour Town Lighthouse. Tucked away on the island's southern end on the Sea Pines Plantation, the structure, with the only female lighthouse keeper in North America, was built in 1970.
© Let's Roam
Visitors can climb the 114 steps of the iconic red-and-white-striped structure where they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views, an elevated shopping experience, and treasure troves of historical artifacts.
The museum-like setting serves as a classroom, featuring a fascinating collection of memorabilia from the Heritage Classic, a PGA tour event now known as the RBC Heritage, as well as artifacts that chronicle the unique historical periods of the island, including the Civil War.
Local Lodging
Set within a vibrant community between Hilton Head and Savannah, less than an hour away from the lighthouse, a stay at Montage Palmetto Bluff is always a bright idea!
This October, explore the significance of oysters in South Carolina's coastal tapestry. The Lowcountry delicacy can be found on the menu at many of the Bluff's restaurants, at Oyster Socials where guests can mingle with our talented chefs, and being steamed at traditional Moreland Landing Oyster Roasts.
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© Montage Palmetto Bluff via Instagram
If you are still hungry for more, venture into downtown Bluffton and explore the local seafood scene, including the state of South Carolina's last remaining hand-shucked oyster operation.
South Florida
A trip to South Florida isn't complete without a stop in Key Biscayne, an island village part of the Miami metropolitan area. Just take the short – and gorgeous – drive over the scenic Rickenbacker Causeway from the big city and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a far-off tropical realm.
Cape Florida Lighthouse, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Standing tall for nearly 200 years, the Cape Florida Lighthouse is a time capsule of the state's days of yore.
© Brice Cooper via Unsplash
First erected in 1825, the brick structure has survived years of erosion, and dozens of hurricanes, and has gained plenty of battle scars from the wars fought here. All things considered, it's no wonder this is the state's oldest lighthouse, replacing another light that was damaged during the Second Seminole War in 1836.
Only a 15-minute drive from downtown Miami, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a wonderful park with sandy beaches, fun trails, and a beautiful historic lighthouse that you can climb all the way to the top; the views from up here alone are worth the visit.
Free tours run at 10 am and 1 pm Thursday to Monday.
Local Lodging
In the heart of South Beach in Miami's Art Deco district, AxelBeach Miami is about 45 minutes from the lighthouse and only a block from the beach. Take a midday break to enjoy a boozy bite to eat at the restaurant, and afterward, the hotel offers guests a toes-in-the-sand experience at the beach, a short block away. When the sun goes down, take the party up to the Sky Bar overlooking Washington Avenue for music and cocktails.
Edging the shimmering waters of the Port of Miami, Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay is 30 minutes from the lighthouse and just a stone’s throw from downtown.
Virginia
The birthplace of the nation's first president, the town of Colonial Beach, Virginia cascades in splendor; it's no wonder four generations of Washington lived here.
Cape Henry Lighthouse
© Visit Virginia Beach
While the original Cape Henry Lighthouse holds the title of the 4th oldest lighthouse in the country, it was the first to be authorized by the government, dating back to 1792. In fact, the construction of the structure was the first federal project authorized by President George Washington in the years following the Revolutionary War. In 881, a newer lighthouse was constructed 350 feet from the original.
Local Lodging
Built in 1948 and refurbished in 2017, Riverview Inn preserves its classic charm even with it's transformation as a modern mecca in Colonial Beach. This family-run inn thrives within the wonderful, and growing, community with an ideal location letting guests enjoy the laid-back events while delving into the area's rich history..
The Southwest
Marin County, California
Down the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Marin County consists of a collection of wealthy, wooded hamlets that honor their haute hippie roots as the rise of a new, more conservative tech-era moves in. The locals eat organic, vote blue, and drive eco-friendly vehicles.
Droves of rockstars, from members of the Grateful Dead to the legendary Janis Joplin reside in the hills alongside well-bred cooking legend Julia Child; a testament to the area’s wilder years as well as the duplicity of the current culture.
Point Bonita Lighthouse
Poetically put by the National Park Service, this Bay Area beauty has supported shepherd ships through the Golden Gate straits since 1855. Both the trail and the lighthouse are open to the public on Sundays and Mondays from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., weather permitting.
© National Park Service
Guided Sunset Tour | Enjoy stunning sunset views and learn the compelling story of this landmark on the Point Bonita Lighthouse Sunset Tour.
Led by a ranger or volunteer docent, this 90-minute tour starts at the Point Bonita Trailhead service gate and will include a half-mile hike to the lighthouse. The excursion will include elements of natural and cultural history as well as a thought-provoking guided discussion that ties the lighthouse’s history to the present.
Each ticket allows one individual to attend this guided hike and tour, which includes access beyond the Point Bonita Tunnel which is otherwise closed to the public.
Local Lodging
Despite being around for centuries, The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco oozes contemporary coolness with modern amenities. The cherry on top? This design-forward hotspot is approximately half an hour away from the lighthouse.
Also about a half an hour from the lighthouse is The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square. Bringing a timeless yet modern touch to the bay, this is the only hotel on Union Square, and with cable cars just outside our front doors, the city is yours to explore.
© San Francisco Marriot Marquis via Instagram
Accessible to the lighthouse by ferry, another dazzling downtown spot is the San Francisco Marriott Marquis.
Yerba Buena Community Benefit District | Immerse yourself in a dynamic atmosphere where artists and makers showcase their talents and creations.
On first Fridays, hidden stories, surprises, and live performances abound in a FREE 90-minute walking tour in downtown San Francisco’s Yerba Buena Neighborhood. Local history, activism, music, and pirating are brought to life as actors portray the larger-than-life historical figures that gave this city its quirky and unique reputation.
On first Sundays, YBCBD, in partnership with the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, Yerba Buena Gardens Conservancy, is producing a monthly Yerba Buena Art & Makers Market in the Yerba Buena Gardens They will have booths filled with prints, ceramics, woodwork, jewelry, and all sorts of handcrafted works by local artists.
Mendocino County, California
A picture-postcard destination prized for its seaside setting overlooking the steel-blue Pacific, Mendocino County is a charming coastal community in northern California.
This tucked-away village is a magnet for lovers of the aesthetically pleasing; stroll past sprawling manicured lawns encased by rose gardens and white picket fences and saltbox cottages with their wind chimes ringing in the breeze.
Point Cabrillo Light Station
Located between Mendocino and Fort Bragg on Highway 1, the Point Cabrillo Light Station sits scenically on the cliff and is one of the most breathtaking structures in the area; so make sure to bring your camera. Constituted by the California State Historical Parks, the light was built back in 1908 and was integral to the safety of the lumber ships that went up and down the coast in the past.
© Marinas
Each year there are only a few opportunities, by way of a guided tour, to climb to the top of the lighthouse and stand next to the historic Fresnel lens. For 2023, there is only one more outing planned, on Saturday, October 14th, 2023 – though more may be added, so keep an eye out for new dates on their website. Likewise, Lens Tour dates for 2024 will be added there soon.
Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing at Point Cabrillo Light Station
Gloriana Studios presents Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing on September 30th and October 1st at 2 p.m., at Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park.
Reserve your spot here.
Point Arena Lighthouse
Surrounded by water on three sides, and shouldered adjacent to the Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands, the Point Arena Lighthouse is a tip-top spot for tourists and locals alike. Visit the gift shop and museum with its historical artifacts and tall tales of structures.
Almost Full Moon Night Tour
Live like a lighthouse keeper and climb the tower at night alongside the docents guiding you on your journey into the unique past of this lighthouse, the tallest on the West Coast.
Champagne, sparkling juice, and sweet and savory snacks will be served, and you get to take home an etched Point Arena Lighthouse champagne flute as a souvenir of this unique experience. The upcoming dates for this tour are September 30th and October 28th, but you can always visit the official website for more information and new events.
Local Lodging
In the heart of Fort Bragg, North Cliff Hotel delivers quality lodging, spectacular views of the Pacific coast and its accompanying sunsets, first-rate service, and amenities that make you feel right at home.
© North Cliff Hotel
If you're after something a little different, Wine Country to Coast offers vacation rentals along Dillon Beach and the Russian River.
San Diego, California
The Lighthouse of Point Loma
The Old Point Loma Lighthouse stood watch over the entrance to the bay of San Diego for 36 years. Built back in 1855, it was decommissioned in 1891 after its location proved too foggy to show its beam.
© John Bahu via Point Loma Association
Sentinel to a vanished past, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse still stands watch over San Diego today with a refurbished interior reminiscent of its historic 1880s appearance, courtesy of The National Park Service.
Ranger-led talks, detailed displays, and useful brochures are available to explain the lighthouse’s noteworthy past.
Local Lodging
Surrounded by San Diego's top attractions, The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter is a walk away from over 150 restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and theaters. From here, it's also easy to explore and dine in Little Italy, catch a baseball game or concert at Petco Park, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo is just a short drive away.
Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii
What was once a royal retreat, Waikiki in Honolulu now revels in its role as a retreat for the masses.
This much-publicized stretch of sand houses beachfront high-rise resorts, and despite the hoards of beachgoers spilling onto the shore, you can still hear whispers of Hawaii’s past; from the chantlike hums of the hula troupes at Kuhio Beach to the legacy of Olympic gold medalist Duke Kahanamoku, considered the father of surfing.
Diamond Head Lighthouse
From Waikiki Beach, the lighthouse is about a 45-minute, mainly coastal, walk with beautiful beaches and stately residences lining the way.
© Outdoor Project
Named for the clear calcite crystals that sailors mistook for diamonds when they discovered them in the early 19th century, this guiding light is based on Waikiki Beach's Diamond Head Crater.
Friday Fireworks
Every Friday night Fireworks light up the night sky and illuminate Waikiki Beach for around 5 minutes per show.
Local Lodging
Bringing a refreshing balance of energy and relaxation in a lively, urban setting, ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach presides over the most famous shoreline in the world, Kalakaua Avenue. A limited-time experience, elevate your stay with exclusive access to evening wines at Longboard Club plus a complimentary resort amenity fee for a limited time only.
Longboard Club is ‘Alohilani Resort’s private indoor/outdoor guest-only venue offering a daily noteworthy acai breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, a diverse selection of high-value international and domestic wines specializing in the Napa region, and international cheese and crudité selections.
© ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach via Instagram
Reminiscent of Hawaii’s paniolo history, The Equus is Waikīkī’s last family-owned and operated boutique hotel offering true Hawaiian hospitality at an unbeatable price. The hotel is furnished with antique east-Asian decor and designed with an equestrian flair, fitting as guests are encouraged to make the beautiful drive to their sister property, Hawai’i Polo Club up on the North Shore, to watch the seasonal polo matches, take polo lessons, or enjoy a spectacular horseback trail ride.
The Northwest
Seattle, Washington
Both a final travel destination and a jumping-off point for the adventurous type into its wild horizons, Seattle is a Pacific Northwest gem straight out of a postcard. Head to the Puget Sound where you can relax on forested islands, some of which are a short ferry ride from the city, but feel like you've left the rest of the world behind.
Alki Point Lighthouse, Alki Beach Park
Partly protected by a seawall, Alki Beach is a summer park destination and one of the most popular beaches in Seattle, partly because it was featured in the film "Sleepless in Seattle". The lighthouse is located on Alki Beach making it an easy visit if you’re already planning on having some beach time.
West Point Lighthouse, Discovery Park
© Stanton Champion
Of the many things to discover in Discovery Park, the West Point Lighthouse is the top treasure. From here you can enjoy stunning views of Puget Sound, sit on the rocks and listen to the water lapping up onto the shore, and feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your back as you take in the sailboats and freighters passing by.
If you get lucky, you might even see a seahawk diving into the blue to catch a fresh fish for dinner.
Local Lodging
Steps away from the city's most iconic attractions, Sheraton Grand Seattle is where captivating cityscapes meet the tranquil allure of the Pacific Northwest. Situated in Seattle's vibrant core, diverse gourmet restaurants and bars, exciting entertainment, and world-class shopping are waiting for you right outside their front doors.
© Lotte Hotel Seattle
A luxurious gem in the emerald city, Lotte Hotel Seattle dazzles in the downtown business district.
Bed & Breakfast Package | Start the day off right with a daily breakfast credit of $60 included in your stay.
Mukilteo, Washington
Located on the Puget Sound, approximately 25 miles north of Seattle, Mukilteo, a Native American name that over time became known as “a good camping ground,” is an amazing option for those who prioritize peace, but don’t want to stray too far outside of city lines. Plus, the town is home to a fully functioning lighthouse that’s worth checking out in all its vintage glory.
Mukilteo Lighthouse, Lighthouse Park
With a soundtrack of the rhythmic roar of waves splashing onto the shore playing in the background, Mukilteo Lighthouse Park is a serene space and an excellent beach park for those after pretty PNW views.
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© Six Degrees Team
Fishing season makes way for a busy boat launch, and beachgoers can stroll the pebbled shores to watch ferries come and go from Whidbey Island. If that wasn’t enticing enough, beach fires are allowed inside existing fire pits.
Local Lodging
Transmitting tranquility, The Lodge at St. Edward State Park is equal parts natural beauty, historical charm, and modern hospitality. Preserving the past while reimagining the future, the space has been thoughtfully restored into an iconic new Pacific Northwest destination.
St. Edward Park offers spectacular views, an array of enchanting trails, and easy access to Seattle—just a 25-minute drive away.
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