Lighthouses belong naturally to Cape Cod’s landscape. The peninsula’s shifting sandbars, exposed Atlantic coastline and long maritime history made navigation hazardous, and a network of lights developed to guide ships around its shores.
Today they are among the Cape’s most recognisable landmarks, but each one has a different setting and story.
Which lighthouses should you see?
Highland Light in Truro is one of the most historically significant, standing high above the Atlantic coast. Nauset Light in Eastham provides another classic Outer Cape image, while Chatham Light is easy to combine with a visit to Chatham.
Around Provincetown, Race Point and other historic lighthouse sites reflect the dangerous waters near the tip of the Cape.
Do not turn it into a race
You could spend a trip collecting lighthouse photographs, but I would rather choose two or three and explore the surrounding coastline as well. Their locations are often as interesting as the structures themselves.
Access, tours and opening arrangements vary, and some lights are primarily viewed from outside. Check current information before travelling specifically for a tour.
Lighthouses are useful anchors for exploring Cape Cod because they lead you naturally towards beaches, harbours and historic communities. Even if maritime history is not your main interest, you will probably encounter several without trying very hard.
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