Lighthouses
Long Island's first lighthouses were simple bonfires, which helped sailors navigate to safe harbors. That all changed when President George Washington ordered the construction of a permanent facility in Montauk in 1792. Here is a look at some of the best on Long Island and when you should go.
Cedar Island Lighthouse, Cedar Point County Park, East Hampton: The 35-foot tower, constructed of New England granite, was originally built in 1839 and then rebuilt in 1869. The structure is currently inactive and abandoned, but will be preserved. The public can access this lighthouse. For more details, call 631-645-5230.
Eatons Neck Lighthouse, end of Lighthouse Road, Eatons
Neck: This 50-foot tower on the Coast Guard Station is the second-oldest lighthouse on Long Island (after Montauk) and was built in 1799. The station is closed to the public, but private
tours can be arranged. For more details, call 631-261-6959.
Fire Island Lighthouse, near Robert Moses State Park,
Parking Field 5, Fire Island. Long Island's tallest lighthouse, it
has 182 winding steps, which explains why flat shoes are suggested
for climbing. On a clear day, it's possible to view the Manhattan
skyline from the light. Part of the Fire Island National Seashore,
its museum covers the history of the lighthouse and the U.S.
Lifesaving Service, pre-Coast Guard. The lighthouse is open
year-round, but a visit during summer makes for a great day at the
beach. After-hours sunset tours of the lighthouse can be arranged. Call 631-661-4876.
Horton Point Lighthouse, end of Lighthouse Road, Southold: This structure was authorized by Washington in 1790 but
not built until 1857. There is a nautical museum on site with
historic log books and artifacts. It is only open on weekends from
Memorial Day through Columbus Day. Best bet is after Labor Day, and
be sure to stop at some of the nearby wineries. Suggested donation
of $2.
Huntington Harbor Lighthouse: Located at the entrance to
Huntington Harbor and Lloyd Harbor in Long Island Sound, the
original light was constructed on the tip of Lloyd Neck in 1857.
The present light was built in 1912. Tours, including a 10-minute
boat ride out to the lighthouse, are available.
Long Beach Bar Lighthouse: Located off the western tip of Orient Beach State Park, at the entrance to Orient Harbor, and nicknamed the "Bug Light," this lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation. It was originally constructed in 1870 and first lit in 1871, and then re-established as a light in 1990 after years of inactivity. The public can access the light for special occasion overnight stays. For more details, call 631-477-2100 or visit eastendseaport.org.
Montauk Point Lighthouse, Montauk: They don't call it
"The End" for nothing. It's best to go on a clear day, to take
advantage of the spectacular views. The museum and gift shop in its
base, run by the Montauk Historical Society, feature early
lighthouse photos and displays, with guides on hand. Hours vary
according to the season.
Old Field Lighthouse, Port Jefferson: At 34-feet tall, the lighthouse, relit in 1991, continues to serve as an active aid to navigation. There is no public access to the lighthouse. For more information, call the Village of Old Field offices, 631-941-9412.
Orient Point Lighthouse, end of Oyster Point Reef: Known as the "Coffee Pot," this lighthouse was built in 1899 to guide mariners through the dangerous Plum Gut currents. The lighthouse is 64 feet tall and not open to the public. For information, call 631-477-4121.
Plum Island Lighthouse, which stands on the west end of Plum Island, an 840-acre island off the tip of Long Island's North Fork, is threatened by neglect and erosion of the bluff upon which it stands. The 55-foot-tall structure was established in 1827. It is not open to the public. For information, call 631-477-4121.
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