There’s arguably no better ocean view than the one you’ll have when when staying at a lighthouse. Designed to guide ships through treacherous passages and warn them away from fog-bound shores, lighthouses are worth making a special trip solely for the unique accommodations. Some are sublimely private, while others may find you making new friends with fellow travelers. Here are some sentinels of the sea perfect for your next nautical-themed getaway. Want more? The U.S. Lighthouse Society has a list of every accommodation in the U.S. and Canada.
East Brother Light Station - California
Located less than an hour from downtown San Francisco — and with stunning views of the city skyline and Mount Tamalpais — this beautifully restored 1873 Victorian lighthouse is located on East Brother Island in the strait separating the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays. Up to five couples can be accommodated on island, and guests enjoy complimentary boat transportation to and from the shore. Champagne and hors d’oeuvres are served on arrival, and a four-course dinner with wine as well as a full gourmet breakfast are on offer every day.
Rua Reidh Lighthouse - Scotland
There are few places more atmospheric than Scotland, and this dramatic location in the northwest corner of the country embodies the very best of the country. With breathtaking views to the Isle of Sky and the Outer Hebrides, Rua Reidh — which means “flat headland” — is straight out of a novel. The local area is rich with Bronze and Iron Age archaeological remains, and home to golden eagles, otters, whales and dolphins. Completed in 1912, the lighthouse has a selection of cozy rooms (some with wood stoves) and self-contained apartments.
Cap Otway Lighstation - Australia
This crisp white “Beacon of Hope” along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road offered thousands of immigrants their first glimpse of the continent after months in cramped ships on rugged seas. The oldest working lighthouse in the country, Otway dates back to 1848 and is uniquely perfect for an overnight stay. The Lightkeeper’s Cottage and Lightkeeper’s Lodge each can accommodate up to 10 guests, while the Lightkeeper’s Studio is perfect for one or two people. Day visitors can climb the station’s 78 steps to the top and overnight guests can enjoy coffee and scones at the the Lightkeeper’s Café, which is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Between May and October, the lightstation is perfect for whalewatching, as up to 25 species of whales pass by, including Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales, Blue Whales and Orcas.
Seguin Island Lighthouse - Maine
Maine is known for its many historic and picturesque lighthouses, but the one on Seguin Island is especially memorable. Situated among the most treacherous waters on the Eastern seaboard, access to the island can be difficult, if not impossible. And when the fog rolls in — Seguin is also one of the foggiest places on the East Coast — the lighthouse’s signal blows twice every 30 seconds, and can be heard from four miles away. These hardships don’t deter eager visitors, who become members of the Friends of Seguin Island in order to reserve lodging in the guest quarters or campground. Nor does it stop the many applicants who hope to be chosen to volunteer from Memorial Day through Labor Day to lead tours, operate the gift shop, and maintain the lighthouse and grounds.
Heceta Head Lighthouse - Oregon
This cozy property — one of the remaining keeper’s properties on the Pacific coast — is now an upscale bed and breakfast, with six well-appointed rooms that can accommodate up to 15 people. Perched on a 200-foot cliff overlooking a wild beach, the lighthouse boasts the brightest beam in the state. (Pro tip: pack an eye mask.) But there’s more than stunning scenery and comfortable digs: Guests to Heceta enjoy a wine-and-cheese social hour each evening, and are treated to a seven-course breakfast each morning. The site is lovingly decorated during the holiday season, and is a favorite for weddings.
