Journey Along
The Massachusetts
Lighthouse Trail

Massachusetts Wander

Since the 1700s, lighthouses have captured our imagination with tales of seafaring and adventure. Massachusetts is home to the first lighthouse in the U.S. Over 45 lighthouses still grace our coastlines, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches. Today, you can marvel at these picturesque beauties along our scenic coast on the Massachusetts Lighthouse Trail. From Cape Ann in North of Boston to Cape Cod and the Islands, travelers can explore coastal communities, the maritime history of the Commonwealth, and discover these breathtaking gems of beauty. To help you plan your journey, here are some of our most notable and accessible lighthouses in the Bay State.

Download a PDF of guide of the Massachusetts Lighthouse Trail

Cape Cod & The Islands: Cape Cod

Back on the Cape, stop in Falmouth to see the operational Nobska Lighthouse, which has been shining its light on Buzzards Bay, Nantucket Sound, and Vineyard Sound since 1829. Then travel about an hour east to Chatham, which sits at the “elbow” of the Cape. Chatham Light is actually one of the few lighthouses in the U.S. that’s still operational 24 hours a day. It was originally part of a pair that was built in 1808; however, after rotating lenses were introduced, two lighthouses weren’t needed on the spot. Its twin was moved and became Nauset Light, which you can find 30 minutes north in Eastham.

From Eastham, drive another 30 minutes to Provincetown, where Wood End Light sits at the entrance to Provincetown Harbor. Built in 1872, today it’s unmanned but sounds a horn to alert for fog. Provincetown’s other lighthouse, Race Point Light, is one of the most remote lighthouses on the Cape. So you’ll need to make the four-mile walk round trip along Race Point Beach, or get a permit for your four- wheel drive vehicle. Be sure to check the schedule if you want a lighthouse tour when you get there.

Attractions

Dining & Lodging

Lodging