6 Lighthouses That Are Open for Tours on Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s lighthouses have stood as beacons of safety and history for centuries, guiding mariners through treacherous waters and adding to the region’s coastal charm. If you're looking to explore these iconic structures, you're in luck! Several Cape Cod lighthouses are open for tours, offering breathtaking views, fascinating history, and the chance to step inside these historic beacons. Before you go, remember to wear comfortable shoes, leave pets at home (except for service animals), and check height requirements. Some lighthouses have entry fees or request donations, and all require visitors to be physically fit enough to climb stairs. Now, let’s explore six lighthouses you can tour on Cape Cod!
1. Chatham Lighthouse
Chatham Lighthouse is an iconic landmark standing 48 feet tall and overlooking the infamous Chatham Bar. Originally one of the Twin Lights, its companion was moved to Eastham in 1923 and became Nauset Light. Today, Chatham Light remains an operational lighthouse, manned by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Tour Schedule: Free tours on Wednesdays in July and August, and select Wednesdays in September (Sept. 5 & 11), 1-3 p.m.
Requirements: Visitors must be at least 45” tall and accompanied by an adult.
Fees: Free.
Interesting Fact: The light shines at 2.8 million candlepower and can be seen 27.6 land miles away!
2. Nauset Lighthouse
Located in Eastham, Nauset Light is easily recognizable as the lighthouse featured on Cape Cod Potato Chips bags. Originally from Chatham, it was moved in 1923 to its current location. Tours are open-house style—no reservations required, but donations are encouraged.
Tour Schedule: Various dates from May through October, including full moon tours on Oct. 17.
Stairs: 44 steps to the lookout room.
Interesting Fact: The Nauset Light Preservation Society maintains the lighthouse through donations, ensuring it remains open to the public.
3. Race Point Lighthouse
Situated in Provincetown at the outermost tip of Cape Cod, Race Point Lighthouse offers a unique, secluded experience. The journey to the lighthouse involves a scenic hike through sandy dunes or a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a proper permit.
Tour Schedule: 1st & 3rd Sundays in June, July, August, and September, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Requirements: Children under 4 cannot climb the ladder to the lamp room.
Donation: $5 per person suggested.
Interesting Fact: Only five people are allowed in the lamp room at a time due to space constraints.
4. Highland Lighthouse
Also known as Cape Cod Light, Highland Lighthouse in Truro is the Cape’s oldest lighthouse, originally commissioned by George Washington in 1796. The current 66-foot tower was built in 1857 and sits atop a 130-foot cliff.
Tour Schedule: Open daily from May through October, with the last tour at 4:30 p.m.
Requirements: Visitors must be at least 48” tall to climb the 69 steps.
Fees: $5-$8 per person; save $1 by visiting the Highland House Museum.
Interesting Fact: The new LED beacon emits a white flash every 5 seconds, replacing the traditional rotating motion.
5. Nobska Lighthouse
Perched in Woods Hole, Nobska Light offers stunning views of Vineyard and Nantucket Sounds. The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk, with tours available in season.
Tour Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, starting at 10 a.m.; last tour at 12:15 p.m.
Requirements: Children must be over 45” tall.
Fees: $10 adults, $8 seniors/veterans, $5 children.
Interesting Fact: Tours are limited to six guests per time slot and may be canceled due to weather.
6. Three Sisters Lighthouses
Located in Eastham’s National Seashore, these three charming lighthouses were originally built to help mariners distinguish the area from Highland Light. Only one still has a beacon, but all three remain historic treasures.
Tour Schedule: Guided tours run from June through September; reservations required.
Fees: Free.
Interesting Fact: Despite looking like a single lighthouse from a distance, the Three Sisters are separate structures that were relocated inland for preservation.
Conclusion
Cape Cod’s lighthouses are more than just beautiful landmarks—they’re living pieces of history that continue to inspire and guide visitors. Whether you're drawn to the dramatic coastal scenery, the engineering marvels, or the rich maritime history, these lighthouse tours offer a unique way to experience Cape Cod. Be sure to check tour schedules, bring a camera, and, most importantly, enjoy the adventure!
Have you visited any of these lighthouses? Share your experiences in the comments below!