St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Enjoy it while visiting St. Augustine in Florida

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main highlights is the 165-foot-tall lighthouse, constructed from 1871 to 1874. It holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving brick structure in St. Augustine and boasts an impressive 219 steps for visitors to climb.

In addition to the lighthouse, the museum showcases a collection of shipwreck artifacts that provide a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. Visitors can also explore a wooden boat building exhibit, which offers insight into the craftsmanship involved in constructing traditional boats.

Legend has it that the site is haunted by the spirits of former lighthouse keepers and two young girls who tragically lost their lives here in the late 1800s. This eerie reputation draws many ghost enthusiasts to the lighthouse, making it a popular stop on the city’s ghost tours. The paranormal activity of the St. Augustine Lighthouse has even caught the attention of the TV show “Ghost Hunters.”

When you visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top and enjoy the stunning views of St. Augustine. Many travelers have mentioned that this is one of the most enjoyable aspects of their visit. It’s worth noting that there is a height requirement for climbing the lighthouse, with a minimum of 44 inches. Some visitors with little ones have expressed their frustration with this restriction. So, remember to bring your camera along to capture the breathtaking scenery but be aware of the height requirement if you’re visiting with small children.