Lighthouses Along the Gulf Coast of Florida

lighthouses gulf coast florida

There are many historic lighthouses along the Gulf coast of Florida. Some are privately maintained and some are on the National Register of Historical Places. In the past, lighthouses served as guides to early sailors. They were difficult to build and maintain.

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark. It is the oldest of all the lighthouses in Florida. Despite the structure’s age, the lighthouse is still functioning as an active aid to navigation. Visitors can visit the museum, which has a panoramic view of the Atlantic coastline.

Another Florida landmark is the Sanibel Island Light. This lighthouse was originally built with a Third-Order Fresnel lens. Unfortunately, the tower was damaged by a hurricane in 2022. Since then, it has been restored. Currently, visitors can go on guided tours.

If you want to visit this historic lighthouse, you can book a tour. Tours are available on weekends, and the views are well worth the price.

You can also get a glimpse of the structure at night. An acrylic replica of the original lens beams nightly. A picnic area with tables and a native plant garden are also available.

There is also a replica of the lighthouse keeper’s house. A gift shop is also available.

Port Boca Grande lighthouse was built in 1890. It is white frame dwelling with green shutters. A cistern and an oil storage house are also located on the property.

Sanibel Island lighthouse is 112 feet tall, and is the first lighthouse north of Key West. Visitors can take tours twice a month.