Nantucket’s lighthouses stand out as some of the most beautiful and picturesque in all of Cape Cod and New England, so seeing them should be at the top of your list when visiting Nantucket. Whether you’re taking a day trip to Nantucket, or staying on the island for a week or longer, this guide will share with you the best way to see each lighthouse, suggestions on which to visit with the amount of time you have, and my tips on how to take the best photos when touring the Nantucket lighthouses.
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How Many Lighthouses Does Nantucket Have?
There are 3 Nantucket lighthouses that visitors are able to see, and they are Brant Point Lighthouse, Sankaty Head Lighthouse and Great Point Lighthouse.
Some say that Nantucket has a 4th lighthouse, which is actually a pair of lighthouses called Cliff Range Lights. But these lighthouses were discontinued in the early 1900’s and replaced by Brant Point Lighthouse, and are now privately owned. They are not accessible or open to the public, and are not operational.
Where Is Each Nantucket Lighthouse Located?
Brant Point Lighthouse is located at Brant Point Beach, which is a short 15-minute walk from the wharf downtown, and the easiest of all the Nantucket lighthouses to visit.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse is located in Siasconset, and will require either a car, moped, bike or public transit to visit.
Great Point Lighthouse is located at the most Northern part of the island within the grounds of the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve. This is the most difficult of the Nantucket lighthouses to visit, but absolutely worth the effort.
Brant Point Lighthouse On Nantucket
The most popular of the Nantucket lighthouses to visit is Brant Point because it’s the easiest to get to, and is also situated right on a beach near town. When you come to Nantucket on the ferry, you’ll also get a great view of this lighthouse as your approach the dock, making it one of the more iconic landmarks on the island for that reason.
I love this little lighthouse because its backdrop is the ocean, and it’s a great place to watch sailboats and ferries go by. And the footbridge that connects the sandy beach to the lighthouse itself just adds so much character and charm. I’ve been to Nantucket countless times, and have to come here during each visit.
Brant Point Lighthouse was built in 1746, but because it was constructed of wood, it caught fire, and was therefore rebuilt, several times. It wasn’t until 1901 when the lighthouse that stands now was finally constructed, and since then, it’s been renovated twice in 1983 and 2000. It’s currently a fully operational lighthouse.
How To Get To Brant Point Lighthouse
To get to Brant Point Lighthouse, you can either walk, bike, moped or drive, and this is the best lighthouse to visit if you’re on a Nantucket day trip. You’ll want to follow Easton Street all the way to the end, where it dead ends, and you’ll immediately see the lighthouse and Brant Point Beach in front of you.
The best way to get to Brant Point Lighthouse is to either walk or bike, as parking for cars is limited. But it’s only a short walk from Straight Wharf in downtown Nantucket, so it’s very easy to get to on foot.
Can You Go Inside Brant Point Lighthouse?
No, you can’t go inside Brant Point Lighthouse, as it’s still a fully-functioning lighthouse owned and operated by the U.S. Coast Guard. There are currently no tours or special offerings for visitors to take guided tours to the top of the tower. But you’re able to walk right up to it, walk on the footbridge, and get as close to it as you want without actually stepping foot inside.
How Much Time Do You Need To Visit Brant Point Lighthouse?
Your visit to Brant Point can be as quick or long as you’d like! Most people spend about 30 minutes here, which will give you plenty of time to walk up to the lighthouse, and enjoy the views from Brant Point Beach. But if you’re looking to take some fun photos, or spend a bit more time lingering on the beach to watch the boats go by, or enjoy a peaceful moment, you’ll want to spend an hour or more.
Is Brant Point Lighthouse Free To Visit?
Yes! There is no charge to visit Brant Point Lighthouse on Nantucket. Both the lighthouse and the surrounding beach are free for anyone to visit, and there are no tickets or passes needed. Just come whenever you’d like and enjoy.
Is Brant Point Lighthouse On Nantucket Or Connecticut?
Some people confuse Brant Point Lighthouse on Nantucket with the replica that was built in Mystic, CT, but the original Brant Point Lighthouse is on Nantucket Island. A replica was built for the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut in 1966 as part of the Sentinels Of The Sea exhibit, which showcases lighthouses from around the U.S.
How To Take The Best Brant Point Lighthouse Photos
The best time of day to take photos of Brant Point Lighthouse will be early morning or around sunset, but you’ll still be able to take great photos at any time of the day while here. Below are some tips on how to take the best photos when visiting!
First, I usually suggest that if you want good photos of the lighthouse, head directly there after getting off the ferry if you’re visiting for the day, or go in the early morning if you’re staying on the island overnight. The later in the day it gets, the more crowded it tends to be. While I’ve never seen it swarming with people, afternoons tend to be a busier time.
You should also know that there are usually people sitting right on the rocks at the base of the lighthouse to fish, so there’s a chance you’ll see them in the background of your photos. Try using a low aperture (or portrait mode on your iPhone) to blur them out a bit if you think they’ll be in your photos.
Sometimes I have luck with apps that remove objects from photos (I’ve heard FaceTune is a good one for that, although I’ve never used it). For me, the spot healing tool on Photoshops has sometimes worked well in this case.
Brant Point Photo Suggestions
Definitely take advantage of the footbridge, which I think is the best part of the lighthouse. Use a low angle to get the footbridge floorboards in the foreground for a cool photo of just the lighthouse, or position yourself so that you’re able to see both the bridge and the lighthouse.
Get close to the lighthouse itself. My favorite angles for this are standing right on the rocks that sit at the base of the lighthouse, and also walking to the very end of the footbridge and standing in front of the lighthouse door.
Use the little brick building that’s close to the lighthouse for some faraway photos, where you can get both the building and the lighthouse in the same frame. To find the brick building while at the lighthouse, face the entrance of the beach with the lighthouse behind you, and look to your left. You should easily spot it.
Be sure to explore the lighthouse from different angles! It’s easy to get caught up in taking tons of photos close to the actual lighthouse, but it’s fun to also photograph it from the left side of the beach. Try getting up into the beach grasses to take some more creative photos, and getting far away to offer a different perspective.
As you arrive or depart Nantucket, be sure to snap some photos from the ferry! This is a great way to capture the entire lighthouse from a distance, and also preserve your memories of seeing it for the first time. Ferry boats actually get pretty close to the lighthouse, so you’ll be able to get some great shots just from the ferry.
Sankaty Head Lighthouse On Nantucket
Sankaty Head Lighthouse on Nantucket is a beautiful 158-foot tall, red and white striped lighthouse in ‘Sconset that sits in an open field measuring 7 acres, and guards the waters along Siosconset Beach and the eastern part of the island. Because it’s not walkable from Nantucket’s main town, I don’t visit it as often as I would like, but every time I have access to a car, moped or bike, I love to come out to visit this gorgeous Nantucket lighthouse.
Built in 1849, Sankaty Head was the last of Nantucket’s lighthouses to gain approval to be built on the island during the peak of Nantucket’s involvement in the whaling industry. The original light that was used during its first years, a French Fresnel lens, is now on display at the Nantucket Historical Association, and this was the first time this type of light was used on a lighthouse in the U.S.
Sankaty Head Light is currently fully operational, and owned by the U.S. Coast Guard.
How To Get To Sankaty Head Lighthouse
The best way to get to Sankaty Head Lighthouse is by bike, car or moped. You can also take The Wave shuttle, which is Nantucket’s public transit system, and then walk from the bus stop to the lighthouse, which is a 1.5 mile walk, and will take 30-40 minutes. The easiest methods will be by car or moped.
To bike from downtown Nantucket to Sankaty Head, you’ll want to take the Siasconset bike path, which is a nice, paved bike path that’s very flat and easy to navigate. Once you arrive at the rotary in ‘Sconset, you’ll want to use Google Maps to get to the lighthouse. It should only take you about 10 minute by bike to get there from the rotary.
Sankaty Head is easy to visit on a day trip if you have a bike or moped, or are willing to take public transit and walk 1.5 miles from the bus stop to the lighthouse.
Is There Parking At Sankaty Head Lighthouse?
Yes, parking is very easy at Sankaty Head Light. There are multiple parking spots for cars, and plenty of street parking if the lot is full.
Can You Go Inside Sankaty Head Lighthouse?
There are a few days throughout the year where visitors are able to climb the inside of the lighthouse to the top of the tower. With efforts from the ’Sconset Trust board of trustees, as well as local volunteers and businesses, the lighthouse is generally open for tours of the tower four times a year. So while you can’t get inside every day, you can click here to visit the ‘Sconset Board Of Trustees website and see what days the lighthouse will be open for interior tours.
Is Sankaty Head Lighthouse Free To Visit?
Yes! Sankaty Head Lighthouse is free for everyone to visit, and there is no charge to park or walk the grounds of the lighthouse.
How Much Time To Spend At Sankaty Head Lighthouse
This will vary depending on your visit. If you’re just stopping by while touring the island, you don’t need more than 30 minutes, which will allow you enough time to see the lighthouse up close, and snap some photos while admiring its beauty.
If you chose to climb the lighthouse during one of the days it’s open, you’ll need more time, and may spend up to 90 minutes here.
When Was Sankaty Head Lighthouse Moved?
Sankaty Head Light was moved in 2007 in an effort to protect it from bluff erosion. During the 20th century, Sankaty Head’s bluff lost over 190 feet of land due to erosion, and before the lighthouse was moved, it stood just 68 feet from the water’s edge. As the lighthouse stands now, it sits over 260 feet from the edge of the bluff.
How To Take The Best Sankaty Head Lighthouse Photos
This is a beautiful place to take photos, especially at sunset! But because the lighthouse is in an open field, you’ll be able to walk around and take photos of it in any light conditions, even if you visit in the middle of a bright, sunny afternoon.
I think the best photo opportunity of Sankaty is walking on the path leading up to the lighthouse. This allows you some leading lines, and showcases the lighthouse in the background.
Be sure to get up close to the lighthouse, even though the entire structure won’t be in your photo. Showing the base of the lighthouse with a close up of the stripes makes for a really cool shot.
Get out into the grasses! To show the height of the lighthouse in the open fields, try to get far away from it and snap some photos from that perspective.
You can also utilize the lighthouse’s informational headstone and play with aperture for a nice photo.
Tip: Be sure to stay within the fenced in areas of the fields around the lighthouse. They are there for your safety to protect you from the bluff, as well as poison ivy. Don’t go beyond the fenced area to get a great shot – it’s not worth it.
Great Point Lighthouse On Nantucket
Great Point is the hardest of the Nantucket lighthouses to get to, but my absolute favorite. Located at the very tip of the most northern point of the island, it’s quite an adventure to get out to it, and makes for an incredible day trip or afternoon excursion.
Once you’re out at Great Point, you can also combine your trip with a beach day because you’ll be surrounded by shoreline during your visit.
Great Point Lighthouse was originally built in 1784, and again, because it was made of wood, it caught fire and was destroyed. It was rebuilt in 1818 with stone, and collapsed in 1984. In 1986, the lighthouse was rebuilt for the last time, which is what stands today, and is an exact replica of the original structure.
How To Get To Great Point Lighthouse On Nantucket?
To get to Great Point Lighthouse, you have three options. One, you can walk, which will be a 7-mile hike in soft sand each way. Two, you can drive a 4×4 vehicle, as long as you have a beach sticker and an Oversand Permit specifically for Great Point. Lastly, you can take a tour in a vehicle, and not have to worry about getting all the correct permits.
The grounds of the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve, where the lighthouse is located, are open 9a-5p daily, with extended summer hours in July and August from 8a-6p daily.
My favorite way to get out to Great Point is to rent a Jeep and drive on your own. This will allow you the most flexibility, and will also allow you stay all day and go at your own pace. There are lots of places on Nantucket that rent out Jeeps to get to Great Point, including Affordable Rentals and Young’s Bicycle Shop.
Tip: Stop by Fresh or Something Natural to pack a beach picnic to bring with you! Also, pack your swimsuit, beach towels, beach chairs, and anything else you’d need to spend some time at the beach.
It’s also a good idea to call the Wildlife Reserve before arriving at 508-228-5646, Option No. 2 to get informational on conditions and closures for the day.
Important Information About Car Rentals For Great Point
If you decide to rent a Jeep specifically to go out to Great Point, you need to be sure to ask the rental company if the Jeep comes with all the permits and stickers to get out there, as well as a tire gauge. If you’re unsure how to deflate and inflate tires, ask the rental company for a demonstration because you’ll need to deflate all your tires to drive on the soft sand out to Great Point, and inflate them again when leaving.
Usually, Jeep rentals will come with all these things, but it’s always good to ask. You also need to make sure that the Jeep is a 4×4 or 4-Wheel drive. All-Wheel drive vehicles are not permitted at Great Point, and your car will be inspected at the gate.
Once you have your Jeep rental, you’ll want to drive to the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve entrance gate. Once at the gate, you’ll need to purchase a day pass to visit Great Point and the Wildlife Reserve, and deflate your tires to 12-15 PSI, which will allow you to drive on soft sand. Once you have your day pass and your tires are deflated, you’re all set to begin your adventure to Great Point!
When you depart the gate, you’ll slowly start to make your way onto a sandy trail that will lead you to the ocean. Once you reach the ocean, turn left, and drive to the very end to get to Great Point Lighthouse. It’s very easy to figure out once you’re on your way. After you explore the lighthouse, you can spend the rest of your day at the remote beach.
Can You Visit Great Point Lighthouse During A Nantucket Day Trip?
If you’re visiting the island for a day trip, Great Point is the only Nantucket lighthouse I don’t suggest you visit unless your only plans for the day are to come out here (which is not a bad way to spend your time for a day trip!), OR you plan to arrive very early in the morning, and depart after sunset. In the latter case, you could spend your morning and afternoon at Great Point, and use your Jeep to visit some of the local beaches before heading back to your ferry.
For first-time visitors, I would suggest you skip this one, focus your time on downtown Nantucket and ‘Sconset or Madaket, and plan to visit Great Point on your next trip. But if you’ve been to the island before, this is a great excursion to consider. Just know that most of your day will be this trip, with maybe a couple of hours leftover before you have to head back to town to catch your ferry.
Can You Walk Or Bike To Great Point Lighthouse?
Yes, you can walk and fat-bike to Great Point Lighthouse. From the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve entrance gate, you’ll still need to get a day pass, and from there, you can begin your walk or fat-biking trip to the lighthouse. It will be a be just about 7 miles round trip of walking or biking on soft sand to get to the lighthouse. Be sure to stay on the shoreline, or on the designated paths when walking or fat-biking, and don’t climb onto the sand dunes.
Great Point Lighthouse Tours
If you’re not able to walk out to Great Point, or rent a Jeep, the Trustees of Reservations offers tours in a Jeep for visitors. To arrange a tour, you’ll need to contact the Board of Trustees directly by calling or emailing. Click here for the Trustees website and scroll down to “Tours” for contact information.
Can You Go Inside Great Point Lighthouse?
During certain days throughout the year, guided tours inside the lighthouse are available. Click here for more information, and instructions on how to contact the Trustees to ask about tours inside the lighthouse.
How Much Time Do You Need To Visit Great Point Lighthouse?
Plan to spend a minimum of 3-4 hours to see the lighthouse, and to spend time at the beach and the surrounding area.
The first time I visited by renting a Jeep, I was in awe of how beautiful it was, and didn’t want to leave. I sadly made other plans that day, which only allowed me about 4 hours out here, and it wasn’t enough. I would highly suggest staying out here all day if you can to make the most of your Jeep rental, and the cost of the day pass.
Is There A Fee To Visit Great Point Lighthouse?
Yes, in addition to the Jeep rental (if needed) and the permits, you’ll need to purchase a day pass for the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve, which is $50 for the day, and $10 for each additional consecutive day if you plan to visit more than once. The day pass is pricey, but it’s worth it to see this amazing and remote part of the island, and to visit the lighthouse.
You will not need to purchase the day pass if you choose to walk, as the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Reserve is free for pedestrians.
Are There Seals At Great Point Lighthouse & Beach?
Chances are good that you’ll see some seals while out at Great Point, as this is a popular spot for them to hang out. During the day, they tend to come to the shoreline, and return to the water at night, and in the winter, it’s common to see groups of them on the shore of Great Point Beach.
Tip: Seals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act which makes it illegal to touch, harass, or have any affect on their normal behavioral pattern. If you spot a seal, it’s important to stay at least 150 feet away from them, and admire their cuteness from a safe distance.
How To Take The Best Great Point Lighthouse Photos
I think Great Point is the most photogenic of all the Nantucket Lighthouses, and it’ll be easy to capture some great photos during your visit. Of course, it’s best to take photos around sunrise and sunset for the best lighting, but since gates are only open between 9a-5p most days (8a-6p in July & August), it’s hard to visit during the best lighting conditions. So, it’s a good thing that this lighthouse looks good in all different light!
As you begin to approach Great Point Lighthouse from a distance, this is a great opportunity to stop your Jeep and get some photos, even if you can only see the top of the structure.
Once you arrive at the “parking” area of the lighthouse (I put parking in quotes because it’s really just a beach, but where most people will leave their car to walk toward the lighthouse), it’s a great photo opportunity to position your Jeep in front of the lighthouse, and take a photo with you in the Jeep. I used a tripod and interval timer to take the photo below, but you could always ask someone nearby as well (I snapped a few photos for people who saw us doing it, and was happy to help!).
Once you’re up close to the lighthouse, definitely take some photos of the top of the structure to highlight the beautiful windows, and use the small stairs at the front of the lighthouse to take some fun photos.
After visiting the lighthouse, walk past the lighthouse to the other side of the beach (the opposite side of where you left your car), and get some photos from that perspective as well.
Best Time Of Year To Visit The Nantucket Lighthouses
Peak season on Nantucket is July & August, with June and September also becoming popular times to visit. This is when there will be the most people at the Nantucket lighthouses. That said, I’ve never seen any of the lighthouses, especially Great Point or Sankaty Head, super crowded, even in the summer. Brant Point typically as the most people, but I’ve never seen it overrun with visitors (more like a steady flow of a few groups at a time).
Early spring is a really great time to visit Sankaty Head because the field will be filled with yellow daffodils, which is a beautiful site to see! The little yellow flowers sprinkled all over the grass make for a lovely contrast against the red and white stripes on the lighthouse.
Depending on the time of the year, Brant Point Lighthouse is usually decorated. During the summer, a giant flag is often hung from the side of the lighthouse. In the spring, a wreath made of daffodils is hung to celebrate the Nantucket Daffodil Festival, and during the Christmas season, a holiday wreath is hung on the side of the lighthouse for the Nantucket Christmas Stroll.
If you’re brave enough to venture to the island in the winter, you’ll likely have the Nantucket lighthouses all to yourself. You may even spot a snowy owl while visiting Great Point!
More posts you may find helpful:
- The Most Incredible Lighthouses In New England
- The Best Cape Cod Lighthouses To Visit
- The Ultimate Nantucket Day Trip Guide
- Should You Visit Nantucket Or Martha’s Vineyard For A Day Trip?
- Cape Cod vs. Nantucket: Which Is Best For You?
- Winter On Nantucket: Things To Do & Tips For Visiting
- Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting
- Must-See Towns On The New England Coast
That’s A Wrap On How To Visit The Nantucket Lighthouses
Now that you know how to visit all 3 of the Nantucket lighthouses, which one do you plan to visit on your next trip? Whether it’s the iconic Brant Point, the beautiful Sankaty Head or the gorgeous Great Point lighthouse (and adventure!), you’re now ready to explore them all and take some great pictures!
