Nantucket Lighthouses
A Complete Guide
They’ve basked in the luxury of beach side summers and they’ve bristled against the most ruthless island winters. Nantucket has three lighthouses, each with its own distinctive look, personality and history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lighthouses are on Nantucket?
Visitors can see three historic lighthouses on Nantucket: Brant Point Lighthouse, Sankaty Head Lighthouse, and Great Point Lighthouse. Each marks a different part of the island’s coastline and offers a unique setting.
Can you climb Nantucket lighthouses?
Most of the time the towers are closed to the public. However, Sankaty Head Lighthouse and Great Point Lighthouse occasionally offer special guided climbs during scheduled events.
Which Nantucket lighthouse is easiest to visit?
Brant Point Lighthouse is the easiest to visit. It sits at the entrance to Nantucket Harbor and is just a short walk from downtown Nantucket and the ferry docks.
Do you need four wheel drive to visit Great Point Lighthouse?
Yes. Great Point Lighthouse sits inside the Coskata Coatue Wildlife Refuge and most visitors reach it using a four wheel drive vehicle with a beach permit or by taking a guided tour.
Where is Sankaty Head Lighthouse located?
Sankaty Head Lighthouse sits on a high bluff in Siasconset on Nantucket’s eastern shore. The red and white striped tower overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks.
What is the oldest lighthouse on Nantucket?
The first lighthouse at Brant Point was established in 1746, making it the second oldest lighthouse site in the United States. The current tower was built in 1901.
Which Nantucket lighthouse is best for photos?
Each lighthouse offers a different view:
Brant Point Lighthouse for harbor and boat views
Sankaty Head Lighthouse for dramatic ocean bluff scenery
Great Point Lighthouse for remote beach landscapes
Can you see all Nantucket lighthouses in one day?
Yes. Many visitors start at Brant Point Lighthouse near downtown, then drive to Sankaty Head Lighthouse in Siasconset, and finish with a trip to Great Point Lighthouse at the northern tip of the island.
