Exploring St. Augustine Lighthouse: Rich, Maritime History

There aren’t very many areas of the Nation with as much intriguing history as St. Augustine, Florida. The area is filled to the brim with a rich tapestry of stories including tales of conquest and discovery, war and peace, haunted tragedy and triumph, and cultural treasures just waiting to be discovered. 

Even if you’re not interested in ghost stories and haunted history, we promise St. Augustine has a cultural and historical gem for every type of traveler. We might sound a bit biased, but we think everyone should come see the area at least once in their life. Today, we zoom in on one attraction in particular that draws in crowds year-round and is a testament to our city’s rich history; the St Augustine Lighthouse.

Historical Architecture & Importance

Did you know St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States? Fifty-five years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Roc, the area of St. Augustine was founded.

Although our history is centuries old, the architecture is much younger and speaks to the quality of the earliest developments. The Spanish established the city in 1565 and roughly 300 years later constructed the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

The lighthouse stands 165 feet above sea level, overlooking Matanzas Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from Anastasia Island. Even if you’re not a history buff, the lighthouse is worth a visit and is a nice way to spend the day while on vacation.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The grounds house not only the lighthouse but also the Maritime Museum. Here are a few of the basics for visiting.

Location: 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Overview: The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum includes a variety of exhibits on maritime history, shipwrecks, and local heritage.

Variety of Tours Available

Here are the tours you can take while visiting aside from going at your own pace.

General Access

Overview: Access to the lighthouse tower, grounds, and museum exhibits.

Highlights: Get ready for a leg workout! Ascend the 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

More information HERE.

Dark of the Moon Tour

Overview: If you’re looking for a haunted lighthouse tour in St. Augustine, look no further! Designed for lovers of all things spooky, this tour is a nighttime ghost tour of the lighthouse and the grounds.

Highlights: Stories of paranormal activity, local legends, and an opportunity to explore the lighthouse by flashlight.

More information HERE.

Sunset/Moonrise Tour

Overview: A scenic tour that takes place during sunset and moonrise.

Highlights: Viewing the sunset over the city and the moonrise over the Atlantic from the top of the lighthouse, often includes refreshments.

More information HERE.

Luminary Night

Overview: A special event held during the holiday season, Luminary Night is an annual tradition hosted by the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. More than 2,000 luminaries are displayed throughout the grounds and the area also features uniquely-decorated Christmas trees. To see this special event in all its glory, visitors are encouraged to climb to the top of the lighthouse and soak in the festive sights.

Highlights: The lighthouse and grounds are decorated with lights, and there are often live performances, refreshments, and holiday activities.

More information HERE.

Special Features & Experiences

Maritime Archaeology

The museum conducts ongoing research and has active maritime archaeology programs.

Children's Programs

 Interactive and educational programs are available for younger visitors.

Gift Shop

Offers souvenirs, local crafts, and maritime-themed items.

Fun facts about the St. Augustine Lighthouse

• The lighthouse was built in 1871 but wasn’t lit until 1874. 
• The lighthouse features an iconic black-and-white stripe pattern with a red top. 
• The powerful light beacon flashes every 30 seconds during both the day and nighttime.
• Before electricity arrived in the area, the lighthouse beacon was powered with pig lard and kerosene. 
• One historical log includes an apology from an assistant keeper who fell asleep during his watch and allowed the light to burn out.
• It takes 219 steps to reach the top and level 4 has a comfortable bench to help visitors catch their breath.
  

Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable shoes: The climb to the top is steep and requires appropriate footwear.

Check the weather: Tours may be affected by weather conditions, particularly the outdoor and climbing portions.

Purchase tickets in advance: Especially for special tours and events, as they can sell out quickly.

Plan your trip: To fully enjoy the experience, plan to spend a few hours exploring the lighthouse and museum.

Stay at Agustin Bed & Breakfast

We hope you’ve enjoyed our detailed look at one of our most popular attractions in St. Augustine. If this didn’t impress you, check out our other guides covering the St Augustin Amphitheater, and the best distilleries and breweries in the area

While you’re in the area, come stay with us. We are located downtown in the heart of the Historic District, perfectly situated between St. George Street and Matanzas Bay. Our bed and breakfast is only steps away from the Old City’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions. 

No matter where your adventures in St. Augustine take you, the Agustin Inn B&B is always just around the corner. You won’t find better accommodations or a more convenient location than us!