South Point Lighthouse - Lighthouse on a hill under a clear blue sky
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South Point Lighthouse

4.6
·491k reviews·, Barbados

A restored 1852 lighthouse marking Maryland's southernmost tip, offering scenic views where the Potomac meets the Chesapeake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall weekdays

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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South Point Lighthouse - Lighthouse on a hill under a clear blue sky

South Point Lighthouse

Best Time

Spring & Fall weekdays

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A restored 1852 lighthouse marking Maryland's southernmost tip, offering scenic views where the Potomac meets the Chesapeake.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Iconic red and white lighthouse at the tip of Maryland, a must-see for history and nature lovers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be tight, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from overflow areas.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing some walking around the park and to the lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

South Point Lighthouse

South Point Lighthouse

Point Lookout State Park

Iconic 89-ft. red and white striped lighthouse, a historic beacon built in 1852 and beautifully restored.

Point Lookout State Park

Point Lookout State Park

Western Shore, Maryland

Explore the park surrounding the lighthouse, offering scenic views where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While South Point Lighthouse is accessible year-round, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid peak summer crowds and enjoy milder weather. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Getting There & Around

South Point Lighthouse is located at the southernmost tip of Maryland. Access involves driving, and parking can be limited, especially during busy periods. Be prepared for a walk to the lighthouse itself.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@fvsoutherngirl
72.1K likes • 1M views

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be tight, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from overflow areas. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing some walking around the park and to the lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Ever wondered where Canada’s most southern point is? Its at the bottom of Pelee Island, ON.
@downielive
42.9K likes • 774K views
Took my @marbella.surfboards.usa out for the first time the other day …don’t get to ride epoxy on the east coast much as it’s mostly windy,but now the south has started breaking ,It’s the perfect time,and it felt like 🔥 ,here’s my first first wave on my new 🔪 . . . . . #instagood #follow4follow #thursday #throwbackthursday #like4like #love #photooftheday #vissla #dahuiwax #whodecapfit #barbado...
oceangittens
210 likes • 3.7K views

📸 Capture the Views

The lighthouse and surrounding scenery offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:

☀️ Sun Protection

The area is exposed, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during warmer months. :sunwithface:

🤙🏼🇧🇧 SURFER OF THE YEAR SERIES 2024 EVENT #1 - SOUTH POINT - 27 Jan @tomlayson 🥇 Tommaso Layson was outstanding on the day and won all the Divisions he entered: 1st OPEN MEN 1st U18 BOYS 1st U16 BOYS
barbadossurfingassociation
177 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Patience

Parking can be tight, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from overflow areas. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing some walking around the park and to the lighthouse. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

The lighthouse and surrounding scenery offer fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:

☀️ Sun Protection

The area is exposed, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during warmer months. :sunwithface:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the picturesque and historic South Point Lighthouse, appreciating its scenic location at the tip of Maryland. The surrounding park offers natural beauty and a sense of tranquility. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging during peak times, and access to climb the lighthouse may be limited.

What People Like

Historic lighthouse beauty
Scenic bay views
Peaceful park atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Occasional crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

South Point Lighthouse is located within Point Lookout State Park in Maryland. You'll need to drive to the park. Follow signs for the lighthouse within the park. Parking is available, but can fill up quickly on busy days. TikTok

Public transport options to Point Lookout State Park are very limited. Driving is the most practical way to reach the lighthouse. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.

From major routes, you'll typically head towards Southern Maryland and follow signs for Point Lookout State Park. The lighthouse is a prominent feature within the park. It's located at the western shore where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Point Lookout State Park, with designated areas near the lighthouse. However, it can become crowded, especially during peak season and weekends. TikTok

Yes, there is a walk from the parking areas to the South Point Lighthouse. The distance is manageable and offers scenic views of the park. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

South Point Lighthouse is located within Point Lookout State Park. While there isn't a separate ticket for the lighthouse itself, there may be park entrance fees or fees for specific facilities within the park. It's best to check the official Point Lookout State Park website for current admission information.

The lighthouse grounds are generally accessible during park hours. However, access to climb the lighthouse (if available) may have specific hours. It's recommended to check the Point Lookout State Park website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any potential tours.

Point Lookout State Park may have an entrance fee, especially during peak season. It's advisable to check the official Maryland State Parks website for the most current fee structure before your visit.

Tours of the interior of South Point Lighthouse may be offered seasonally or on specific days. Information about tours, if available, is typically found on the Point Lookout State Park website or through local tourism channels. TikTok mentions tours at Chatham Lighthouse, suggesting similar opportunities might exist.

Visitors should adhere to park rules and regulations. Respect any posted signs regarding restricted areas or safety guidelines. The lighthouse is a historic structure, so treat it with care.

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photographing the lighthouse and the surrounding landscape. TikTok highlights beautiful sunsets at West Point Lighthouse, suggesting similar scenic opportunities here.

You can capture classic shots of the lighthouse itself, panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, and the natural beauty of Point Lookout State Park. Look for interesting angles and compositions. Instagram shows dynamic surf photography, hinting at the coastal beauty.

Drone usage is often restricted in state parks and near historical sites. It's crucial to check the specific drone regulations for Point Lookout State Park and any federal guidelines before flying a drone in the area.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or wildlife. A tripod is helpful for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset. :camerawithflash:

Explore the park grounds for various vantage points. The area around the lighthouse offers direct views, and walking along the shoreline can provide different perspectives. TikTok shows the lighthouse in its environment.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Point Lookout State Park, including the area around South Point Lighthouse, can be a fun outing for families. The park offers open spaces for kids to run around, and the lighthouse itself is an interesting sight. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed for younger children. TikTok shows the lighthouse as a point of interest within a park setting.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

South Point Lighthouse and its surroundings are a dream for photographers. The iconic red and white stripes of the lighthouse against the backdrop of the bay and river create stunning compositions. Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light. Explore different angles from the shoreline and the park grounds to capture unique shots. TikTok showcases the beauty of lighthouses at sunset, a similar experience you can find here.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

History and Significance

The South Point Lighthouse, a striking 89-foot red and white structure, was originally built in 1852. It served as a crucial navigational aid for ships traversing the Chesapeake Bay and the mouth of the Potomac River. Its strategic location made it vital for maritime traffic in the region. The lighthouse has undergone significant restoration efforts to preserve its historical integrity and appearance.

During the Civil War, the area around the lighthouse, then known as Point Lookout, was also the site of a major Union prisoner-of-war camp. While the lighthouse itself was not directly involved in combat, its presence was part of the broader military significance of the Point Lookout area. Today, it stands as a testament to maritime history and a picturesque landmark. TikTok mentions the lighthouse and its location, hinting at its historical context.

Exploring Point Lookout State Park

Beyond the lighthouse, Point Lookout State Park offers a wealth of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The park is situated at the confluence of the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay, providing diverse aquatic environments. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming in designated areas. The park also features hiking trails that wind through wooded areas and along the shoreline, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Several historical remnants and interpretive signs are scattered throughout the park, providing insights into its past, including its role during the Civil War. The park is a popular spot for picnics and offers amenities like playgrounds and camping facilities, making it a well-rounded destination for a day trip or a longer stay. TikTok highlights the park as a destination for exploring the southernmost point of Maryland.

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