St. Augustine Lighthouse

Lighthouse · St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine Lighthouse

An 1874 lighthouse on Anastasia Island, painted with black-and-white spiral bands and a red lantern, with 219 steps to the top and views of the town, the bay and the Atlantic.

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About St. Augustine Lighthouse

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is on Anastasia Island, on the opposite side of the Matanzas Bay from the historic downtown. The current tower was completed in 1874 to replace an older lighthouse threatened by erosion and is about 50 meters tall.

The tower is painted with black-and-white spiral bands and has a red lantern. There are 219 steps to the top gallery, from where you can see downtown Saint Augustine, the bay, the island’s beaches and the Atlantic. The original Fresnel lens is still in place.

The keeper’s house beside the tower houses a museum about the lighthouse and navigation in the region, and there are maritime archaeology exhibits with artifacts from shipwrecks found off the coast.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

One and a half to two hours, including the climb and the museum.

Best time

Late afternoon, with lower light over the bay, or in the morning before the heat. The climb may be suspended during storms; confirm before you go.

How to get there

It’s on Anastasia Island, about 3 km from the historic downtown, crossing the Bridge of Lions. There is parking on site. Admission is charged.

Tip

The climb has narrow steps and there is no elevator; take it slowly and use the landings to rest.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about St. Augustine Lighthouse

How many steps does the Saint Augustine lighthouse have?

There are 219 steps to the top gallery.

When was the Saint Augustine lighthouse built?

The current tower was completed in 1874.

Where is the Saint Augustine lighthouse located?

On Anastasia Island, about 3 km from the historic downtown, across the Bridge of Lions.

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