Going out and exploring is always a good idea, but it's especially enjoyable when visiting lighthouses by boat. It's an experience that's truly unique and unforgettable! (And one of the best things about owning boats is getting to see the world just like sailors have done for ages.)
While some lighthouses are easy to reach by car, seeing them from the water offers a totally different experience. Keep reading as we share some tips for discovering these historic landmarks from a different angle – right from your boat deck.
Tips for Planning Your Lighthouse Boat Tour
The best time to visit lighthouses by boat is during mild weather – not too cold that you're freezing in the wind and not too hot that you're overheating. However, summer trips work fine if you stay hydrated and find shade! We suggest planning your trip between spring and fall. (Unless you're in a warmer region where year-round visits work.)
For great photos from your boat, try a wide-angle lens to capture the whole scene or zoom in close to capture tiny details. Early morning and sunset give the best light – while foggy conditions can make your shots more interesting.
Additionally, always check the weather forecast and wear sturdy shoes to stay safe. Pay attention to any rules, oversee children and pets, and stay alert for hazards like cliffs, fog horns, and rotating radar equipment.
10 Can't-Miss Lighthouses By Boat
If you love checking out lighthouses, exploring them by water is the best way to do it. Believe us, the sights from your boat will outshine anything you can catch from the shore. Here are our top picks for your next lighthouse boat tour!
1. Block Island Southeast Lighthouse, Rhode Island
Starting off strong, the Block Island Southeast Lighthouse (built in 1875) is a classic for a reason! In 1993, they had to drag the whole lighthouse 300 feet inland to stop it from tumbling into the ocean – talk about a close call! Now, it stands proudly as a National Historic Landmark, drawing photographers and history buffs from all over.
Want the perfect shot? Approach from the southwest side for the most dramatic views. And while you're in the area, swing by the North Light, too! You might as well check off two historic spots in one lighthouse boat tour.
2. Portland Head Light, Maine
You can't go inside the Portland Head Light, but it's still worth checking out! You'll find Maine's oldest working lighthouse (built in 1791) right in Cape Elizabeth. Many people visit lighthouses by boat to get amazing views from the water, and this is one of the best to see.
Additionally, it was built after two locals died in a bad storm back in the day. And, even though you can't climb this one if you want to learn more about its history, you can explore a neat museum right on site.
3. Boston Light, Massachusetts
The Boston Light in Massachusetts (built in 1716) holds the title of America's oldest lighthouse station. And it's the only one still operated by the Coast Guard! Speaking of which, in 2003, they broke tradition by hiring Sally Snowman as keeper. She was the first civilian since WWII and the first woman ever.
We love this lighthouse because it's incredible to see those aged walls still doing their job after all these years. Plus, the approach from the harbor provides the same view sailors have had since 1716!
4. Split Rock Lighthouse, Minnesota
Standing on a cliff above Lake Superior, the Split Rock Lighthouse seems straight out of a beautiful painting! The lighthouse (built in 1910) draws many visitors because it sits on a dramatic 130-foot cliff. (Which makes it perfect for photos and sightseeing.) Additionally, it has helped sailors cross this gigantic lake for over 50 years!
Not only can you visit the lighthouse by boat, but you can also access the Great Lake here. So, if you're looking to take your own vessel, you can get a vehicle permit. (Or take a kayak tour.)
5. Thomas Point Shoal Light, Maryland
Standing proudly in the Chesapeake Bay near Annapolis, the Thomas Point Shoal Light is something special. It's the last of its kind – a screw-pile lighthouse that's still doing its job from the exact spot where it was built back in 1875.
What makes it even better? You can get up close to check it out since public tours run regularly right up to the structure. So, if you're planning a lighthouse boat tour on the East Coast, this historic beacon should be your first stop. It's remarkable to see a lighthouse that's been guiding boats safely through these waters for nearly 150 years.
6. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, North Carolina
You've probably seen this iconic black and white spiral lighthouse in photos – it's so famous that people call it "America's Lighthouse." Standing tall in the Outer Banks (built in 1803) near Cape Hatteras, it's a popular spot for boaters to cruise up, drop anchor, and explore.
And the distinctive stripes aren't just for show! They help ships spot it from miles away, which was important back then and still matters now. Seeing this piece of maritime history up close is worth the trip.
7. Diamond Head Lighthouse, Hawaii
The iconic Diamond Head Lighthouse, standing tall since 1899, is a must-see on any lighthouse tour. Perched in one of Hawaii's most stunning spots, this beacon's distinctive red light can shine miles out to sea. And the location is pure paradise – no wonder it's become such a popular stop for visitors exploring the coastline.
Here's a fun bit of history: the name comes from an old mix-up when British sailors got excited thinking they'd found diamonds sparkling on the volcano slopes. Those "gems" were just plain crystals – but the name stuck anyway!
8. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, Oregon
A bit different from the other lighthouses on this list, the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse sits on a rock a mile offshore of the Oregon coast. But you can't step inside this remote beacon! It's only viewable by boat or from shore.
Built in 1880, the lighthouse earned the nickname "Terrible Tilly" from the brutal storms it endured. Though its keepers once battled harsh conditions to keep the light burning, today, it draws visitors to admire its isolated beauty against the Pacific backdrop.
9. Matagorda Island Light, Texas
The Matagorda Island Light shares its name with the island it lives on – and it's one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the state. You'll need to hop on a boat to visit this historic beacon, as there's no road access to its remote location. The trip is worth it, though!
This landmark draws boaters from all around who come to admire its classic design and learn about its role in Texas maritime history. And its significance hasn't gone unnoticed either! In 1984, it earned a well-deserved spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
10. Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse, Florida
We had to end our lighthouse boat tour list with a spot you can climb to the top! Sitting between Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse has been helping ships stay safe since 1907.
This light stands out because it has a powerful beam – one of the strongest in the United States! This piece of history invites visitors to climb up and enjoy the same views the keepers have experienced for over a century. (Our favorite part!)
Experience Maritime History: Visit Lighthouses by Boat This Summer
We hope this lighthouse boat tour guide gave you new places to stamp on your lighthouse passport! For more fun vacation inspiration — made with boaters in mind — check out our blog!
