15 Lighthouses Across the Globe You Must Visit

For whatever reason, August has become something of a month to celebrate lighthouses. The USA has scheduled the 7th of August as National Lighthouse Day, the United Kingdom’s Association of Lighthouse Keepers holds a lighthouse heritage weekend, usually on the third weekend in the month, and the International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend takes place on that weekend too, with International Lighthouse Day officially being the third Sunday in August.

Last year we took a deep dive into National Lighthouse Day in the United States but for this blog post we thought we’d set our sights a little more globally and explore some of the world’s most interesting and iconic lighthouses.

But before we get into that, and before anyone reminds us, we know that we’d be remiss if we didn’t give a shout out to lightships (and their crews) too as these water-based beacons also have a huge role to play in ensuring the safety of those at sea.

Now, back to land.

Lighthouses have long served as beacons of safety for mariners navigating treacherous waters. These towering structures, often located in picturesque and remote locations, are also historical landmarks that attract visitors from around the world.

So, with August being the month of all things lighthouse (and lightship!), here we’ll explore some of the most iconic lighthouses across the globe that are open or visible to the public, each with its unique history and charm.

15 of the world’s most famous lighthouses

Click the links for each to find out more about each lighthouse, and potentially, even organize a trip to visit one or more of them.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, USA

Located on Hatteras Island in North Carolina, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable lighthouses in the United States. Standing at 198 feet, it is the tallest brick lighthouse in North America.

Built in 1870, it was designed to warn sailors of the treacherous Diamond Shoals, a series of shifting sandbars. Visitors can climb the 257 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding Outer Banks.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Philippines

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, also known as Burgos Lighthouse, is a historic beacon located in Ilocos Norte, Philippines. Constructed in 1892 during the Spanish colonial period, it stands on Vigia de Nagpartian Hill, overlooking the scenic Cape Bojeador and the South China Sea.

This majestic lighthouse is a prominent heritage site, attracting visitors with its well-preserved structure and panoramic views of the coastline. Its rich history and picturesque location make it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.

Peggy's Point Lighthouse, Canada

Peggy's Point Lighthouse (also called Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse), situated in the quaint fishing village of Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. This iconic red-and-white structure has been guiding mariners since 1915.

While the lighthouse itself is not open for climbing, the surrounding area offers stunning views of the rugged Atlantic coastline. The rocks around the lighthouse are perfect for exploring and provide an excellent backdrop for photography.

La Jument Lighthouse, France

La Jument lighthouse, (Phare de la Jument in French) located off the coast of Brittany, France, is one of the most famous lighthouses in the world. Built in 1911, it stands amidst the rough seas of the Iroise, known for its dramatic waves and treacherous conditions.

This iconic lighthouse is renowned for a famous photograph capturing a keeper standing in the doorway as a massive wave crashes around it. Visitors can view this maritime marvel from boat tours, appreciating its resilience and the stunning, rugged coastal scenery.

Fanad Head Lighthouse, Ireland

Fanad Head Lighthouse, located in County Donegal, Ireland, is a stunning example of coastal architecture. Built in 1817 following a tragic shipwreck, this lighthouse sits on the windswept Fanad Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The lighthouse is open for guided tours, and visitors can even stay in the former lightkeeper's cottages, experiencing the life of a lighthouse keeper firsthand.

Portland Head Light, USA

Portland Head Light, located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Commissioned by George Washington and first lit in 1791, this historic lighthouse stands on a rocky headland at the entrance to Portland Harbor.

The adjacent museum in the former keeper's quarters offers insights into the lighthouse's history. Visitors can explore the surrounding Fort Williams Park, which provides beautiful trails and picnic spots.

Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia

Standing proudly on Australia's most easterly point, Cape Byron Lighthouse in New South Wales offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Built in 1901, it remains an active lighthouse and is a popular spot for whale watching during migration season.

Visitors can take guided tours of the lighthouse and learn about its history, as well as explore the surrounding Cape Byron State Conservation Area, known for its scenic walking trails.

Lindau Lighthouse, Germany

Located on Lake Constance in Bavaria, Lindau Lighthouse (in German: Neuer Lindauer Leuchtturm) is the southernmost lighthouse in Germany. First lit in 1856, this lighthouse is unique for its location on a freshwater lake rather than the sea.

Visitors can climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the lake, the Swiss and Austrian Alps, and the charming town of Lindau. The nearby Mangturm, an older lighthouse, adds to the maritime history of the area.

Tourlitis Lighthouse, Greece

Perched on a rocky islet near the entrance of Andros Harbor in Greece, the Tourlitis Lighthouse is one of the most unique lighthouses in the world. Built in 1887 and reconstructed in 1994, this lighthouse appears almost mythical, rising directly from the sea.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the view from the harbor and nearby shorelines is enchanting. Andros Island, known for its beautiful beaches and charming villages, adds to the allure of a visit.

Kilauea Lighthouse, USA

Sitting on a rocky promontory on the northernmost tip of Kauai, Hawaii, the Kilauea Lighthouse offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. Built in 1913, it played a crucial role in guiding ships across the Pacific.

Today, it is part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, home to numerous seabird species. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding refuge.

Slettnes Lighthouse, Norway

Situated on the northernmost mainland point of Europe, Slettnes Lighthouse in Norway offers a unique Arctic experience. Built in 1905, it stands on the edge of the Barents Sea and provides a stark, beautiful contrast to the surrounding tundra.

The lighthouse is open for tours during the summer months, and visitors can even stay overnight in the former keeper's house, experiencing the midnight sun or the northern lights, depending on the season.

Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, Argentina

Known as the "Lighthouse at the End of the World," Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse is located on a small islet in the Beagle Channel, near Ushuaia, Argentina. Built in 1920, it marks the dangerous waters of the channel and is a symbol of the southernmost reaches of the Americas.

While not open to the public, boat tours from Ushuaia offer close-up views of the lighthouse and the chance to explore the remote and stunningly beautiful region of Tierra del Fuego.

Cape Point Lighthouse, South Africa

Cape Point Lighthouse, located in Cape Point, South Africa, is a renowned landmark on the continent. Built in 1859, it sits atop the rugged cliffs of the Cape Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Due to frequent fog and low visibility, a new lighthouse was constructed closer to the water in 1919. Visitors can hike or take a funicular to the old lighthouse, enjoying panoramic vistas and the rich history of this iconic navigational aid.

Vizhinjam Lighthouse, India

Vizhinjam Lighthouse, located in Kovalam, Kerala, is one of India's most famous lighthouses. Standing at 118 feet tall, this striking structure was built in 1972 and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby beaches.

The lighthouse's red and white striped tower is a popular attraction, drawing visitors who climb its spiral staircase for a panoramic vista of the coastal landscape. Its historical significance and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit destination in South India.

Portland Bill Lighthouse, England

Portland Bill Lighthouse, located on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, in the United Kingdom, stands as a striking coastal beacon. Built in 1906, this iconic red and white lighthouse guides vessels navigating the hazardous waters of the English Channel.

Visitors can explore its fascinating history through guided tours, climb the 153 steps to the top for panoramic views, and enjoy the surrounding rugged cliffs and scenic walking trails, making it a popular destination for tourists and maritime enthusiasts alike.

Happy international lighthouse month!

Lighthouses around the world are more than just navigational aids; they are symbols of human ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring romance of the sea.

Visiting these lighthouses offers a glimpse into history, stunning vistas, and the unique cultures of their locations. Whether you are an avid traveler, a maritime fanatic, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes, these lighthouses are well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the area.

15 Iconic Lighthouses Across the Globe You Must Visit