The New England Coast is home to some of the most beautiful and idyllic shorelines in the country. Nantucket has long relied on lighthouses to help sailors navigate safely and today, the well-preserved structures still shine a light on the beauty and history of the island. A tour of the three historical lighthouses that exist around the island makes for the perfect day adventure during your stay at our inn.
For those who arrive on Nantucket via ferry, the lighthouse on Brant Point (officially named Brant Point Lighthouse) is the welcome to the island. Established in 1746, the Brant Point Lighthouse is America’s second oldest lighthouse. It is the shortest lighthouse in all of New England at only 26 feet tall, but it’s red light flashes every four seconds and can be seen ten miles out on sea. It has actually been rebuilt nine times along the years and continues to be a beacon of light for our town. It’s located closest to Downtown Nantucket, making it an easy attraction for guests to access during their stay. You’ll often see artists and photographers working to capture the perfect painting or photo. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon watching boats come into the harbor.
Hailed as the largest and official Nantucket lighthouse, the Great Point Lighthouse is located at the northernmost point of the island out past Wauwinet. It is within the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve and guides ships coming into Boston Harbor. Built in 1784, this lighthouse was destroyed in March 1984 by a severe nor’easter storm and then rebuilt in 1986. Due to its remote location, this lighthouse is a bit difficult to reach. It is accessible only by 4-wheel drive vehicle so Jeep-goers are welcome to cross the sandy shores (with a beach permit). If you are an avid hiker and don’t mind walking seven miles along the shoreline, then you can go by foot! You can also opt to take a guided tour by a local company for an up-close visit.
This red and white striped lighthouse sits 70 feet tall on the bluff at the end of what is now Baxter Road in Siasconset. Built in 1850, it flashes its white light every 7.5 seconds. As one of Nantucket’s most recognizable lighthouses, the Sankaty guides ships away from the rocky coastline and the hazardous entrance of Davis South Shoals The high cliff it is on is continually eroding and eventually became perilously close to the edge, so it was moved 400 feet northwest in 2007 to preserve the structure from falling into the waters below. While the tower itself is not open to the public, you are free to take a hike around the cliff, roam the grounds, and take in the breathtaking view of beautiful Atlantic Ocean.
After a day of exploring Nantucket’s iconic lighthouses, you’ll be ready to rest and relax at the Seven Sea Street Inn. Located just north of Main Street, we are close to shopping, dining and many other attractions to enjoy during your stay. We offer a private guest house and eleven cozy and elegant guest rooms with all of the amenities you need to truly feel at home. Enjoy on-site concierge services and delicious morning meals. Book online today and contact us for additional recommendations on where to eat and what to do during your getaway. We can’t wait to welcome you to Nantucket!
