Loading…

Turkey Icon

Celebrate Thanksgiving in America’s Hometown! Click to learn more.

Turkey Icon

Visit the Lighthouses of the South Shore

Blogs

August 5, 2024

Is there anything more quintessentially New England than a beautiful lighthouse overlooking the seashore? Of course not, which is why you should make sure to see some before the summer ends. The South Shore has some incredible lighthouses you’ll want to visit. Enjoy the scenic views of the ocean while learning about the historic and symbolic significance of these magnificent life-saving structures. 

Plymouth Light 

Plymouth Light (Gurnet Light)

A picturesque contrast of white and red, Plymouth Light, also known as Gurnet Light, sits at the entrance to Plymouth Bay by Plymouth, MA. The light is the oldest wooden lighthouse in the United States, and also has the distinction of being staffed by the first female lighthouse keeper. 

Ordinarily, this lighthouse isn’t open to the public, so you’ll need to take photos from afar. However, there may be occasional open houses, including during Duxbury’s Opening of the Bay festival in May.

Scituate Light

Arguably the most iconic landmark in Scituate, MA, Scituate Light is a must-see location when you visit the South Shore. Built of split granite blocks with a one-and-a-half-story house attached, the light was activated in 1811. Even if today’s technology makes the lighthouse more symbolic than necessary, a white light still flashes every 15 seconds.

The grounds of the lighthouse are open all year, which is fortunate for the flocks of people who love visiting this beloved landmark. As for the attached house, that’s only open for tours on specific dates.

Duxbury Pier Light

Also known as “Bug Light,” Duxbury Pier Light is located on the channel that leads to Plymouth, Kingston, and Duxbury harbors. First lit in 1871, this 34-foot tall lighthouse was installed to protect sailors from the dangerous shoal off Squash Head. It was the first cast iron caisson-style lighthouse in the United States.

A note of interest is that it’s neither located in Duxbury nor is it on a pier. There was originally a stone pier nearby, though that has long since been removed. 

Minots Ledge Light

Built in 1860, Minots Ledge Light is part of the town of Scituate and is located on the Cohasset Rocks outside of Boston Harbor. Situated in the water rather than on a cliff or peninsula, it’s a sight to see. Because of its location, it’s not open to the public, but you can still see it at a distance from the shore or by boat.

This lighthouse is considered a romantic image due to its light signal. The signal, which is a 1-4-3 flashing cycle adopted in 1894, is locally referred to as “I LOVE YOU” due to 143 often being associated with the phrase.

Ned’s Point Lighthouse

Neds Point lighthouse

Located by a stunning backdrop of ocean and treeline, Ned’s Point Lighthouse is a scenic place to get panoramic views of the harbor, Buzzards Bay, Cape Cod, and the Elizabeth Islands. Built in 1838, it’s one of the smallest active lighthouses on Buzzards Bay standing at 39 ft tall.

This lighthouse is a great place to visit on your South Shore adventure. The town-owned park it’s located in is open to the public. Sit on the grassy lawn and have a picnic, fly a kite, or play ball with your kids. You can also swim, lounge, or launch a kayak at the small town beach.

Lighthouses are beautiful, historic, and great symbols in art and literature. Why not visit the South Shore and make a plan to visit all of the lighthouses in the area? It’s an incredible way to spend a weekend.