Discover Florida’s Best Coastal Lighthouse Stops on our Ultimate Road Trip Guide to see our favorite beacons! Embark on an unforgettable road trip journey along Florida’s stunning coastlines. From the Gulf to the Atlantic and down to the enchanting Florida Keys, you’ll encounter iconic lighthouses and have fun along the way. You might even climb the tallest one in Florida!
Whether you’re a dedicated pharologist (a lover of lighthouses) or simply looking for a unique and scenic adventure, this guide has everything you need to plan the ultimate trip.
Florida’s mild weather makes visiting these lighthouses a breeze year-round, and the scenic routes along the Gulf Coast, Atlantic Ocean, and Highway 1 offer plenty of opportunities for stunning views and fun stops.
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What Makes Florida’s Coastal Lighthouses Special?
Florida’s coastal lighthouses aren’t just navigational landmarks—they’re vibrant pieces of history, architecture, and culture that make them unique travel destinations.
- Rich Maritime History
Florida’s lighthouses played a crucial role in guiding ships through treacherous waters dating back to the 1800s. They are an integral part of nautical history. - Stunning Scenic Locations
Set against the backdrop of beautiful waters, and their proximity to beaches make them a perfect photo op spot. Also, their locations, from the Gulf Coast beaches to the Florida Keys, make them a perfect addition to any scenic road trip. - Year-Round Warm-ish Weather
Thanks to Florida’s warm climate, you can visit these amazing lighthouses year-round. Unlike northern states where icy conditions can limit lighthouse access, Florida’s mild, sunny climate allows for lighthouse visits in every season. - Diverse Architectural Styles Florida’s lighthouses showcase a variety of designs, from traditional brick towers like St. Augustine Lighthouse to skeletal iron structures like Molasses Reef Lighthouse in the Florida Keys.
In this guide you’ll find out where to climb to the top of historic towers, experience breathtaking ocean views, and explore the surrounding coastal gems. Plus, we’ll share insider tips, including fun lighthouse-themed stops, ghost hunts, where to spot unique lighthouse mailboxes, and how to collect stamps in your Lighthouse Passport.
We never pass a lighthouse without stopping to check it out!
🌅Check out this Florida Lighthouses Illustrated Map & Guide on Amazon before your road trip!🗺️
The Ultimate Florida Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary:
- What Makes Florida's Coastal Lighthouses Special?
- The Ultimate Florida Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary:
- 1. Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
- 2. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
- 3. Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
- 4. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
- 5. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
- 6. Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse
- 7. Fun Lighthouse-themed Stops in the Florida Keys
- 8. Molasses Reef Lighthouse
- 8. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum
- Collect Stamps Along the way with a Lighthouse Passport Book
- Final Thoughts on Florida's Coastal Lighthouse Road Trip
- FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions) about Florida Coastal Lighthouses:
- Essential Packing List Items for your Lighthouse Road Trip:
- Keep Reading for more travel inspiration:
☀️🌴Find the best stylish resort wear outfits for your Florida Coastal Lighthouse road trip that are still budget-friendly on Amazon!👗
1. Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Location: Pensacola, FL inside (within the Naval Air Station)
- Why Visit? Climb 177 steps for panoramic views of Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. (visit info here)
- Interesting Fact: Built in 1859, this lighthouse played a key role during the Civil War.
- Good to know: Since it is on the Navy Base you must enter the base with a tour and have proper i.d.
- Fun Fact: The Lighthouse is reportedly “haunted” and you can book a night ghost hunt there! Also, you can book a Blue Angels practice watch.
We did the “ghost hunt” night tour there and it was fun and spooky to explore the lighthouse at night with the equipment.
Nearby Attractions:
- National Naval Aviation Museum – Learn about naval history and aviation just across from the Lighthouse. There are also virtual reality exhibits here.
- Pensacola Beach – Relax on white sandy beaches with great restaurants and shopping too.
- Pensacola Maritime Heritage Trail – waterfront sidewalk with plaques that tell the story of Pensacola’s waterfront shipping history.
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Hilton Pensacola Beach – Beachfront views and modern amenities.
- Holiday Inn Express Pensacola Beach – Great for families and budget travelers.
- Sole Inn and Suites – A charming boutique hotel in downtown Pensacola.
Next Stop: 🚗 Drive east to St. Augustine via I-10 and I-95.
2. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Location: St. Augustine, FL
- Why Visit? One of Florida’s most famous lighthouses, with haunted history tours and stunning ocean views.
- Fun Fact: Built in 1874, this lighthouse is rumored to be one of the most haunted in the country. We did a “ghost hunt” tour there and loved it! Seeing the lighthouse and quarters at night is spooky too.
Nearby Attractions:
- St. George Street – Walk through historic shops and amazing restaurants.
- Castillo de San Marcos – Explore the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. It also has a great water view!
- Anastasia State Park – A beautiful beach with hiking trails.
- You can get the Combo Museums and Trolley tour to get around easier in St. Augustine!
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Casa Monica Resort & Spa Autograph Collection– A luxurious historic hotel in downtown St. Augustine. (you can use Marriott points here)
- The Cedar House Inn – A bed and breakfast with unique charm. We loved the decor in this charming house!
- St. George Inn – Conveniently located near top attractions.
Next Stop: 🚗 Continue south on I-95 to Ponce Inlet.
3. Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
Location: Ponce Inlet, FL (near Daytona Beach)
- Why Visit? Florida’s tallest lighthouse at 175 feet and 203 steps, it has an impressive museum and historic Fresnel lenses.
- Fun Fact: This lighthouse offers one of the best 360-degree panoramic views on Florida’s east coast. The grounds are also nice to explore.
Nearby Attractions:
- Marine Science Center – A fascinating marine education and rehabilitation center, where visitors can see rescued sea turtles, stingrays, and seabirds up close.
- Smyrna Dunes Park – This scenic coastal park offers mangrove trails, boardwalks, and panoramic views
- Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier– It’s a great place to enjoy classic Florida beach vibes, local seafood, and entertainment.
- Check out our Lighthouse YouTube Short on the View from here!
Fun Stop: Hidden Treasure Gift Shop near the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse has its own fun replica lighthouse to see!
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Hyatt Place Daytona Beach-Oceanfront – A modern beachfront hotel offering spacious rooms, a heated outdoor pool, an oceanfront bar, and free breakfast.
- Hampton Inn Daytona Shores-Oceanfront – This affordable beachfront hotel features complimentary breakfast, direct beach access, and an outdoor pool.
- The Shores Resort & Spa – Ideal for those looking for a high-end stay with relaxation and stunning views.
Next Stop: 🚗 Drive south to Cape Canaveral.
4. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Location: Cape Canaveral, FL
- Why Visit? Located at the heart of Florida’s Space Coast, this lighthouse has witnessed countless rocket launches.
- Fun Fact: Established in 1868, the lighthouse originally stood closer to the shore before being relocated inland.
Nearby Attractions:
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – Watch live rocket launches, meet astronauts, and experience the Shuttle Atlantis Exhibit
- Playalinda Beach (Canaveral National Seashore) – This unspoiled beach offers stunning coastal views, soft sand, and peaceful nature trails. This is where we watched the rocket launch!
- Wizard of Oz Museum – A unique museum featuring memorabilia, immersive exhibits, and interactive display experiences from the beloved story of Oz.
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Radisson Resort at the Port – A convenient and comfortable stay near cruise terminals.
- Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront – Stunning oceanfront views and upscale amenities.
- Hampton Inn and Suites Cruise Port – A cozy, quiet retreat close to everything. (Hilton points)
Next Stop: 🚗 Head down Highway 1 to Jupiter.
5. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
Location: Jupiter, FL
- Why Visit? This iconic red lighthouse offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Fun Fact: Built in 1860, it remains an active aid to navigation.
Nearby Attractions:
- Blowing Rocks Preserve – A unique limestone rock formation on the beach.
- Dubois Park – A great place for kayaking and picnicking.
- Busch Wildlife Sanctuary – A rescue center for Florida wildlife with a lot to see.
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa – Oceanfront luxury with spa services.
- Wyndham Grand Jupiter – A stylish hotel near the marina.
- Jupiter Waterfront Inn – A budget-friendly stay near key attractions on the Intercoastal Waterway.
Next Stop: 🚗 Follow Highway 1 south to Hillsboro Inlet.
- Pompano Beach tour close to Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse:
6. Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse
Location: Pompano Beach, FL
- Why Visit? Known as the Big Diamond, it has one of the most powerful Fresnel lenses in the world.
- Fun Fact: Its light can be seen from 28 nautical miles away.
Nearby Attractions:
- Pompano Beach Pier – A great spot for fishing and dining.
- Hillsboro Inlet Park – A scenic park with stunning lighthouse views.
- Butterfly World – The largest butterfly park in the world.
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Beachcomber Resort & Club – A boutique beachfront hotel.
- Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort – A luxury stay with ocean views.
- Hampton Inn Fort Lauderdale/Pompano Beach – A budget-friendly option with great amenities.
Next Stop: 🚗 Continue on Highway 1 through the Florida Keys.
7. Fun Lighthouse-themed Stops in the Florida Keys
These are some fun replicas to stop and see along the way on your lighthouse road trip through the Florida Keys!
- From the time you enter Key Largo and throughout the Keys keep an eye out for unique Lighthouse mailboxes on either side of the road (and manatee ones too!). 📫
- The next fun stops are all definitely worth stopping for a lighthouse photo op!
🔹 Whale Harbor Lighthouse (Islamorada, FL) – A fun stop at a seafood marina. We also saw a manatee at the dock there!
🔹 Robbie’s (Islamorada, FL) – See a quirky mini lighthouse near the parking lot and feed the famous tarpons at Robbie’s. We also love the food and view here for lunch if it’s not too crowded.
🔹 The Giant Lobster at Rain Barrel – 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada Florida (he’s not a lighthouse, but still worth a stop!) It’s a great place to pick up a few souvenirs too.
🔹 Marathon Welcome Sign (Marathon, FL) – A charming replica lighthouse on the city sign to see when driving in. You’ll have to snap a quick photo.
🔹 Faro Blanco Lighthouse (Marathon, FL) – A charming replica lighthouse at a marina and resort. The “lighthouse” also has a gift shop at the base. It is part of the Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club.
8. Molasses Reef Lighthouse
Location: Off the coast of Key Largo, FL
- Why Visit? A unique offshore lighthouse marking one of the most spectacular coral reefs in the Florida Keys.
- Fun Fact: Built in 1921, this lighthouse is a rare example of an iron screwpile design and remains a beloved spot for divers and snorkelers.
How to Visit:
- The lighthouse is only accessible by boat, with several tour operators in Key Largo offering snorkeling and diving excursions to Molasses Reef. The snorkeling here is great!
- Some of the best boat tours include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Tours, Key Largo Dive Center, and Sundiver Snorkel Tours.
- Visitors can enjoy vibrant coral formations, tropical fish, and even sea turtles while exploring the reef around the lighthouse.
Nearby Attractions:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – The first undersea park in the U.S., offering kayaking, glass-bottom boat tours, and snorkeling.
- Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park – A great spot for nature lovers to explore tropical hardwood hammocks.
- Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center – A rescue center home to native birds like pelicans and hawks.
Best Nearby Hotels:
- Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo – (our favorite!) A luxurious beachfront resort with water activities, great food, beautiful beach. Check out our Review of Baker’s Cay if you have time.
- Playa Largo Resort & Spa – Upscale accommodations with a private beach and marina.
- Hampton Inn Key Largo– A great budget-option and you can use Hilton hotel points!
🚗 Final stop: Key West!
8. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum
Location: Key West, FL
- Why Visit? This picturesque lighthouse offers a unique view of Old Town Key West.
- Fun Fact: Originally built in 1825, it was rebuilt after a hurricane in 1847.
- There is an amazing Sunset Lighthouse Experience (see our review) that is a must-do if you have time at the Key West Lighthouse!
Nearby Attractions:
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum – Guided tours provide fascinating insights into Hemingway’s life in Key West and his literary legacy. You can do a Hemingway Life and Food Tour in Key West too!
- Southernmost Point Buoy – This vibrant, oversized buoy marks the southernmost point in the continental United States, just 90 miles from Cuba
- Duval Street – Explore the heart of Key West on this iconic street!
- Check out our Key West in a Day Itinerary and Guide for more things to do!
Best Nearby Hotels:
- The Gardens Hotel – Luxury boutique hotel with amazing gardens, decor, and a wine gallery!
- Southernmost Beach Resort – Charming hotel with magical sunset view.
- La Concha Key West – Marriott Autograph Collection – On Duval with great rooftop view and spa.
- Lighthouse Hotel Historic Inn– Great location and view!
Some of our Recent Key West Articles to help you plan:
- What to see in Key West – One Day Itinerary
- Key West Hotel Review and Comparison
- Find the Best Camping Spots in the Florida Keys
Collect Stamps Along the way with a Lighthouse Passport Book
Make your Florida lighthouse road trip more fun by collecting stamps at each stop with a Lighthouse Passport Book! Available from the U.S. Lighthouse Society, (we picked ours up in the gift shop at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse) this passport allows you to track your lighthouse journey and earn special rewards.
Be sure to ask for a stamp at every lighthouse museum and visitor center along the way!
My first stamp was from the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and since then it has almost filled up!
Final Thoughts on Florida’s Coastal Lighthouse Road Trip
This Florida coastal lighthouse road trip is the perfect way to explore historic landmarks, stunning ocean views, and hidden gems along the Sunshine State’s coast. Whether you’re driving from Pensacola to Key West or just stopping at a few favorites, this guide ensures you don’t miss a thing. This road trip can also be incorporated into a longer vacation with longer stays along the route. Grab your lighthouse passport book, hit the road, and let Florida’s lighthouses light your way!
FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions) about Florida Coastal Lighthouses:
Florida is home to over 30 lighthouses, many of which are open to the public. Some of the most famous include St. Augustine Lighthouse, Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, and the Key West Lighthouse.
Not all lighthouses in Florida allow visitors to climb to the top. However, some of the best for climbing include Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, St. Augustine Lighthouse, and Pensacola Lighthouse, which offer stunning panoramic views.
Florida’s lighthouses can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is fall through spring (October–April) when the weather is cooler and crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot, hot, hot, but coastal breezes help a little.
Yes! Molasses Reef Lighthouse in the Florida Keys is only accessible by boat, and several local tour operators offer snorkeling and diving excursions to see it up close.
Some of Florida’s lighthouses are still active navigational aids, while others have been decommissioned and turned into museums. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, and Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse are examples of active lighthouses, while others, like St. Augustine Lighthouse and Key West Lighthouse, primarily serve as historic sites.
Essential Packing List Items for your Lighthouse Road Trip:
- Portable Phone Mount – A sturdy phone mount is a must for easy access to navigation and hands-free calls. We love this budget-friendly one on Amazon!
- Reusable Water Bottle with Filter – A reusable water bottle (like this Brita one on Amazon) with a built-in filter ensures you’ll always have access to clean water and be well-hydrated.
- Compact Car Emergency Kit – From flat tires to minor injuries, you’ll want to be prepared with essential tools for being on the road!
- Travel Cooler Bag – A soft-sided, insulated cooler bag keeps drinks and snacks fresh and accessible, saving you time and money on stops. (Amazon)
- Portable Power Bank – This budget-friendly option (Amazon) can keep all your devices charged, and has a solar panel so everyone in the car can stay connected.
- Don’t forget to bring a travel-sized hair dryer! We love our BabyBliss Pro Nano Titanium because it is small, but works great on our hair! It is also budget-friendly which is a plus too!