Standing sentinel over St. Augustine since 1874, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is an iconic black-and-white spiral-striped beacon that offers visitors stunning views and a glimpse into rich maritime history. As a working lighthouse and home to the Maritime Museum, it continues to serve as an active aid to navigation while preserving centuries of coastal heritage.
The Lighthouse Experience
The Climb
- 219 steps to the top
- 165 feet tall
- Spiral staircase
- Multiple landings for resting
- Breathtaking panoramic views
Maritime Museum
- Interactive exhibits
- Shipwreck artifacts
- Archaeological discoveries
- Boat building demonstrations
- Heritage Boatworks program
What to See
Main Attractions
- Original Fresnel lens
- Keeper’s House museum
- Maritime hammock
- Archaeological conservation lab
- WWII Coast Guard barracks
Views from the Top
- Atlantic Ocean
- St. Augustine inlet
- Historic downtown
- Anastasia Island
- Salt Run
Programs & Activities
Dark of the Moon Tours
- Ghost tours (evening)
- Paranormal experiences
- Historical storytelling
- Nighttime tower climbs
- Advance reservations required
Educational Programs
- Maritime archaeology
- Lighthouse keeper history
- Navigation science
- Historic preservation
- Marine ecology
Planning Your Visit
Hours & Admission
- Open daily (check website for current hours)
- Last admission 1 hour before closing
- Various ticket options available
- Group rates
- Member discounts
Best Times to Visit
- Early morning: Best photos
- Weekdays: Less crowded
- Sunset: Beautiful views
- Check our map for directions
Tips for Visitors
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Light jacket (can be breezy)
- Sunscreen
Important Notes
- Must be 44 inches tall to climb
- No flip-flops allowed for climbing
- Camera straps required
- Weather may affect access
- Allow 1.5-2 hours for visit
Special Events
- Sunset/Moonrise climbs
- Dark of the Moon tours
- Children’s programs
- Holiday events
- Member events
Historical Significance
Timeline
- 1871: Construction begins
- 1874: First lighting
- 1876: Keeper’s house completed
- 1955: Automated
- 1994: Museum opens
- Present: Active aid to navigation
Maritime Heritage
- Shipwreck discoveries
- Archaeological research
- Conservation efforts
- Educational programs
- Community involvement
Nearby Attractions
Within short distance:
- Anastasia State Park
- St. Augustine Beach
- Salt Run
- Local dining options
- Historic sites
Photography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Spiral staircase
- Tower views
- Maritime hammock
- Keeper’s house
- Sunset silhouettes
Best Times
- Early morning light
- Golden hour
- Clear weather days
- Full moon nights
- Special events
Family Activities
- Junior Keeper program
- Scavenger hunts
- Interactive exhibits
- Educational programs
- Family-friendly tours
Accessibility
- Keeper’s House accessible
- Museum exhibits accessible
- Ground level activities
- Tower climb restrictions
- Modified program options
Conservation Efforts
The lighthouse maintains:
- Archaeological program
- Artifact conservation
- Building preservation
- Maritime research
- Educational outreach
Explore more St. Augustine historic landmarks or plan your visit with our interactive map.
This guide is regularly updated to ensure accuracy. Last updated: December 2024
