
Admiralty Head Lighthouse
Historic Spanish-style lighthouse at Fort Casey State Park, offering free admission and stunning Puget Sound views from its tower.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Admiralty Head Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Spanish-style lighthouse at Fort Casey State Park, offering free admission and stunning Puget Sound views from its tower.
"A must-see historical landmark with amazing views, even after hours you can stroll the grounds and enjoy the experience."

Check Tour Hours First
Volunteer tours are limited; check times before you go to climb the tower! :ticket:
Ladder to the Top!
The final ascent is a ladder. Babies/toddlers may not be allowed. :baby:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Admiralty Head Lighthouse Tower
Fort Casey State Park
Climb the historic tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Puget Sound and surrounding islands.

Fort Casey State Park Grounds
Surrounding the lighthouse
Explore the expansive park, historic gun batteries, and enjoy the scenic coastal landscape.

Gift Shop & Museum
Base of the lighthouse
Discover souvenirs and learn about the lighthouse's rich history through exhibits.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tours
Accessibility & Little Explorers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tour Hours First
Volunteer tours are limited; check times before you go to climb the tower! :ticket:
Ladder to the Top!
The final ascent is a ladder. Babies/toddlers may not be allowed. :baby:
Grounds are Always Open
Even if tours are closed, enjoy the lighthouse exterior & park views. :camerawithflash:
Souvenir Stop
Visit the gift shop for unique lighthouse-themed items. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tour Hours First
Volunteer tours are limited; check times before you go to climb the tower! :ticket:
Ladder to the Top!
The final ascent is a ladder. Babies/toddlers may not be allowed. :baby:
Grounds are Always Open
Even if tours are closed, enjoy the lighthouse exterior & park views. :camerawithflash:
Souvenir Stop
Visit the gift shop for unique lighthouse-themed items. :gift:
Deer Sightings Possible
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like deer grazing nearby! :deer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Admiralty Head Lighthouse for its beautiful architecture, stunning views from the tower, and peaceful atmosphere. The opportunity to explore the historic Fort Casey State Park grounds adds significant value. However, some note the limited tour hours due to volunteer staffing and the challenging ladder ascent to the tower's peak.
"Beautiful lighthouse with easy access. The tours are operated by volunteers, so the hours are limited. Take the tour, visit the museum, and stop by the gift shop for a souvenir. It's a very peaceful place to enjoy."
Jon Kroeker
"Cute little lighthouse on Fort Casey. After exploring Fort Casey all day, we stopped by and were able to go up into the lighthouse tower around 3:30. They close the lighthouse to the public at 4pm.
It was really neat to get to climb into the tower. There are stairs, but near the top there is a little ladder you will need to climb. It was super hot up there, but the views were amazing."
Jessie Fox
"A must-see historical landmark if you're in the area! We visited while waiting for the ferry, and it turned out to be the perfect way to pass the time while soaking up some fascinating history. Even after hours, you can stroll the grounds and enjoy the experience."
Justin Brummage
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Admiralty Head Lighthouse is located within Fort Casey State Park on Whidbey Island, Washington. You can reach Whidbey Island via ferry from Mukilteo or drive north from the mainland. Once on the island, follow signs for Fort Casey State Park. The lighthouse is a prominent feature within the park.
Yes, there is ample parking available within Fort Casey State Park, near the lighthouse. Parking fees may apply for the state park.
The lighthouse is situated within Fort Casey State Park, so access to the grounds and lighthouse typically requires entry into the park. A Washington State Discover Pass or daily fee is usually required for park entry.
Driving is the most convenient way to explore Whidbey Island and reach Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Public transportation options are limited. Renting a car or using your own vehicle is recommended.
If you're coming from the Seattle area, you'll likely take the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry. Check the WSDOT ferry schedule for departure times and potential wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The lighthouse itself offers free admission, but a Washington State Discover Pass or a day-use fee is required to enter Fort Casey State Park where it's located.
The lighthouse is operated by volunteers, so hours can be limited and vary. It's best to check the official Washington State Parks website or local listings for the most current operating hours before your visit. Tours often close around 4 PM.
Advance booking for lighthouse tours is generally not available. Access is typically on a first-come, first-served basis during operating hours. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, due to the final ladder ascent, staff may not permit carrying babies or toddlers. Visitors should be able to safely navigate stairs and a ladder.
The Fort Casey State Park entry fee grants access to the park grounds, including the historic gun batteries, beaches, and the exterior of Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Tower tours may have specific volunteer-led schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the lighthouse grounds, visit the small museum and gift shop, and if tours are available, climb to the top of the tower for stunning views. The surrounding Fort Casey State Park also offers historic batteries to explore and beautiful coastal scenery.
The climb involves stairs, but the final section to the very top is a ladder. It can be hot inside the tower, and visitors should be comfortable with heights and physical exertion.
Restroom facilities are available within Fort Casey State Park, typically near the main visitor areas and parking lots.
Absolutely! The lighthouse and its surroundings offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer.
Yes, Fort Casey State Park has many scenic spots perfect for a picnic. You can enjoy your meal with views of the lighthouse and the Puget Sound.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the lighthouse. However, you can find restaurants and cafes in nearby towns like Coupeville or Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option. There are many scenic spots within Fort Casey State Park to enjoy your meal.
Whidbey Island offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual cafes and seafood restaurants to more upscale options, particularly in towns like Coupeville and Langley.
Food delivery services may be limited on Whidbey Island, especially to more remote park areas. It's advisable to plan for bringing your own food or dining in nearby towns.
Whidbey Island is known for its fresh seafood, particularly mussels and oysters, as well as local produce and artisanal products.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for photographing the lighthouse. Overcast or even rainy days can add a dramatic, moody atmosphere.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the lighthouse against the sea and sky, close-ups of its architectural details, and scenic views from the tower. Wildlife, like deer, can also be subjects.
Drone usage is typically restricted within Washington State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest park regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
The area around the lighthouse offers numerous vantage points. The bluff overlooking the water provides expansive views, and the interior of the tower offers unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fort Casey State Park
The park also boasts beautiful beaches and open grassy areas, making it an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the stunning views of the Puget Sound. The combination of historical exploration and natural beauty makes Fort Casey a comprehensive destination. Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to the lighthouse with a thorough exploration of the park's military remnants.
The Admiralty Head Lighthouse Experience
Access to the tower is dependent on volunteer docents, meaning hours can be limited. It's crucial to check the schedule upon arrival or beforehand. Even if the tower is closed, the lighthouse grounds are accessible, and the gift shop offers a chance to pick up souvenirs and learn more about the lighthouse's history. The overall atmosphere is described as peaceful and historic, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and sightseers alike.
Photography Tips for Admiralty Head
Beyond the lighthouse itself, the surrounding Fort Casey State Park offers numerous photographic opportunities. Capture the expansive coastal landscapes, the historic gun batteries, and the wildlife that often frequents the area, such as deer grazing peacefully nearby. From the top of the lighthouse tower, you can also get unique perspectives of the park and the surrounding waterways. Remember to check for any park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial shots.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit