With its storied maritime history and dramatic coastline, Cape Cod is home to some of the most iconic lighthouses in the country. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or simply looking for a scenic coastal adventure, these historic beacons offer unforgettable views and a glimpse into the region’s nautical heritage.
Map of Cape Cod Lighthouses — explore each location by clicking the icons above.
Nauset Light – Eastham
Perhaps the most photographed lighthouse on Cape Cod, Nauset Light is a striking red-and-white structure perched above the dunes of Eastham. Its beacon still shines today, and it’s open for seasonal tours. Don't miss the nearby Three Sisters Lighthouses, the charming predecessors to Nauset.
The iconic red‑and‑white Nauset Light standing sentinel above the dunes of Eastham’s Nauset Beach—a longtime symbol of Cape Cod’s maritime heritage.
Highland Light – Truro
Also known as Cape Cod Light, this is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on the Cape. Set atop dramatic bluffs in Truro, Highland Light is open to the public and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic. The onsite museum and historic keeper's house provide a rich educational experience.
Highland Light—Cape Cod’s oldest and tallest lighthouse (commissioned by George Washington)—now safely inland after being moved to escape erosion.
Chatham Light – Chatham
Standing guard over the dangerous Chatham Bars, this lighthouse is still an active Coast Guard station. Tours are limited, but the views from the bluff are breathtaking, and it’s a fantastic photo stop year-round.
Chatham Light, still an active Coast Guard station, overlooks the shifting sands of Lighthouse Beach—its twin 1800s towers long gone but its legacy undimmed.
Race Point Light – Provincetown
Located in the dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Race Point Light is accessible via a long hike or permitted oversand vehicle. The light station is well-preserved and even offers overnight stays during summer—an unforgettable way to experience the Cape!
Race Point Light perched at the very tip of Provincetown—rugged dunes, sweeping ocean views, and a beacon that feels like the edge of the world.
Long Point Light – Provincetown
At the very tip of Cape Cod, Long Point Light is a remote and peaceful site. A long walk across the breakwater or a short boat ride takes you to this tranquil stretch, often frequented by shorebirds and sea breezes.
Wood End Light – Provincetown
Located just south of Long Point, Wood End Light marks the entrance to Provincetown Harbor. Accessible via a hike along the breakwater from Commercial Street, this quiet lighthouse offers a remote, serene setting ideal for peaceful exploration.
Sandy Neck Light – Barnstable
Set back in the marshlands near Barnstable Harbor, this lesser-known lighthouse is privately owned but viewable by boat or from the surrounding trails. It’s a favorite for kayakers and photographers looking for a quiet coastal escape.
Sandy Neck Light watches over Barnstable Harbor from the quiet edge of Sandy Neck Beach—accessible by boat or a scenic off-road adventure.
Wings Neck Light – Pocasset
Located in the Bourne village of Pocasset, Wings Neck Light is now a private rental home (that you can rent via WeNeedaVacation!). Its charming, squat silhouette is instantly recognizable from nearby public beaches.
Wings Neck Light—once a U.S. Coast Guard station—sits at the mouth of the Cape Cod Canal, offering sweeping Buzzards Bay views and unique overnight stays.
Three Sisters – Eastham
These decommissioned lighthouses once stood along the coast before erosion forced their relocation inland. Now beautifully restored, the Three Sisters sit nestled in a wooded clearing—a unique stop just a short walk from Nauset Light.
The restored Three Sisters—three petite white towers with black lantern decks—once guiding sailors in harmony and now reunited inland at Nauset Beach.
Stage Harbor Light – Chatham
Stage Harbor Light, also known as Harding's Beach Light, was decommissioned in the 1930s but still stands proudly on private property. It can be viewed from the beach or by boat, and adds charm to the Chatham coastline.
Monomoy Light – Monomoy Island
Situated on South Monomoy Island, this isolated lighthouse is now part of the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. Accessible by boat and a hike through protected marshlands, it’s a hidden gem for adventurous lighthouse lovers and birders alike.
West Dennis Light – South Yarmouth
Formerly known as Bass River Light, this 1855 structure is now part of the Lighthouse Inn. While it’s not open for tours, guests at the inn can stay steps away from this operational private light, which still shines today.
Lewis Bay Light – Hyannis
Lewis Bay Light, also called Hyannis Harbor Light, is a former lighthouse now repurposed as a private residence. It can be glimpsed from the water or from boat cruises departing Hyannis Harbor.
Nobska Light – Woods Hole
Nobska Light is located in Falmouth, in the village of Woods Hole. This classic white tower sits above Vineyard Sound, offering stunning views of the Elizabeth Islands and Martha’s Vineyard. The keeper’s house is being restored for future public use.
Nobska Light on the southwestern tip of Cape Cod—white iron tower overlooking Vineyard Sound, with glimpses of Martha’s Vineyard on the horizon.
Tips for Visiting Cape Cod Lighthouses
- 📸 Bring your camera—sunrises and sunsets at the lighthouses are breathtaking.
- 👟 Wear sturdy shoes—many are located at the end of sandy trails or long stairways.
- 🗓️ Check tour schedules in advance—many are seasonal or run limited days.
- 🗺️ Use the map above to plan a self-guided tour along the Cape’s scenic byways.
Lighthouses are more than just navigational tools—they’re symbols of Cape Cod’s rich maritime legacy. Whether you visit one or embark on a full-day tour of all 14, these stunning structures offer a quintessential Cape Cod experience.