Massachusetts Lighthouses

Throughout the state’s history, Massachusetts has been closely linked to the sea—with merchant ships, whaling boats, and fishing fleets sailing from ports to destinations across the world. Those maritime journeys have been made safer and easier thanks to the state’s many lighthouses, which play an essential role in guiding vessels through treacherous waters and safely into harbors. Originally built to prevent seafarers from crashing into dangerous rock formations and cliff sides (a common tragedy in the 1800s), these distinctive beacons also warned of perilous waters ahead and provided vital navigational information for captains and their crews. They also acted as landmarks for sailors, often flashing in a pattern that was easily distinguishable from the surrounding water (although these days, GPS has taken much of the wind out of their sails).

Almost two dozen lighthouses are still standing today along the Massachusetts coast, each with its own fascinating and colorful story to tell. Some have survived numerous shipwrecks and blizzards, and many have been rebuilt, remodeled, or relocated over the years. Others have nearly fallen victim to eroding cliffs and bluffs but have been saved—often multiple times—by heavy machinery. Some have even become tourist attractions, with some attracting rumors of ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena.

The oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the country is Boston Light, which overlooks Little Brewster Island and casts a bright beam 27 miles into the Atlantic Ocean. The octagonal granite tower is connected to a weathered gray keeper’s house, which is open for public visits on a few summer “open houses” days. If you’re feeling brave, you can climb the spiral staircase to the top and enjoy breathtaking coastal views and a picturesque seascape.