Cape Cod Lighthouses
Explore the iconic lighthouses guarding Cape Cod's shores. This guide helps you discover the history and beauty of these maritime sentinels, from easily accessible spots to remote National Seashore gems.
The picks
- 01
Highland Lighthouse (North Truro)
Perched atop a 125-foot clay cliff in North Truro, Highland Lighthouse (also known as Cape Cod Light) is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on the Cape. Its historic tower, relocated in 1996 due to erosion, offers guided tours where you can climb to the lantern room for sweeping ocean vistas.
- 02
Nauset Lighthouse (Eastham)
The iconic red-and-white striped Nauset Lighthouse in Eastham is one of Cape Cod's most photographed landmarks. Situated within the Cape Cod National Seashore, it's easily accessible from a nearby parking lot, offering stunning views of the outer beach and guided tours on select days.
- 03
Race Point Lighthouse (Provincetown)
Standing alone on the remote outer beach near Provincetown, Race Point Lighthouse offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Access requires a 4x4 permit or a challenging 2-mile walk across the sand, rewarding visitors with sweeping Atlantic views.
- 04
Chatham Lighthouse (Chatham)
An active aid to navigation, Chatham Lighthouse overlooks the expansive Chatham Beach and its ever-shifting sandbars. While the tower's interior is generally not open to the public, visitors can enjoy excellent exterior views and explore the beach directly below, observing harbor seals in colder months.
- 05
Three Sisters Lighthouses (Eastham)
Hidden inland amidst the pines in Eastham, the Three Sisters Lighthouses are a charming historical curiosity. These three small, wooden lighthouses once stood on Nauset Beach but were moved repeatedly due to erosion, eventually replaced by the current Nauset Lighthouse.
Frequently asked
Which Cape Cod lighthouses offer public tours or interior access?
Highland Lighthouse in North Truro and Nauset Lighthouse in Eastham often provide seasonal tours allowing visitors to climb the tower. Check their specific schedules as availability can vary by season.
What is the best time of year to visit Cape Cod lighthouses?
Spring through fall offers the best weather for exploring, with most visitor centers and tours open. Fall brings fewer crowds and dramatic coastal light, ideal for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Are Cape Cod lighthouses typically kid-friendly attractions for families?
Yes, many lighthouses are great for families. The open spaces around them are perfect for running, and the history sparks imagination. Always check for age or height restrictions for tower climbs.
Is there an admission fee to see the lighthouses on Cape Cod?
Most exterior views are free, and many offer free parking. Some lighthouses, especially those within the Cape Cod National Seashore or offering tower climbs, may have small admission or parking fees.
How can I access more remote lighthouses like Race Point?
Remote lighthouses like Race Point (Provincetown) can be accessed by a lengthy walk over sand, requiring good stamina, or with a special 4x4 beach permit if you have a suitable vehicle.
From remote outposts to easily accessible landmarks, Cape Cod's lighthouses tell tales of seafaring history and enduring beauty. Plan your coastal journey and create an itinerary to visit these historic beacons with the TownHop trip planner.
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