Nauset Light Cape Cod
Iconic red & white lighthouse, famous for Cape Cod Chips, set against beautiful beaches and dunes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Nauset Light Cape Cod
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red & white lighthouse, famous for Cape Cod Chips, set against beautiful beaches and dunes.
"This lighthouse is more than just a landmark; it feels like folklore come to life."
📸 Iconic Chip Photo
Bring a bag of Cape Cod Chips for the classic photo op with the lighthouse!
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or late to secure parking. Off-season parking is free.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nauset Light
Eastham, Cape Cod National Seashore
The iconic red and white lighthouse, famous for its appearance on Cape Cod Potato Chips bags.
Nauset Light Beach
Below the lighthouse
A beautiful stretch of fine sand with gentle waves, perfect for beachcombing and enjoying coastal views.
Three Sisters Lighthouses
Short walk/drive from Nauset Light
Three historic, non-working lighthouses offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking
Iconic Views & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Iconic Chip Photo
Bring a bag of Cape Cod Chips for the classic photo op with the lighthouse! 
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or late to secure parking. Off-season parking is free.
👟 Beach Access
A path through dunes leads to Nauset Light Beach. Wear comfortable shoes for the walk.
🌊 Beach Safety
Be aware of signs regarding predators if seals are spotted.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Iconic Chip Photo
Bring a bag of Cape Cod Chips for the classic photo op with the lighthouse!
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or late to secure parking. Off-season parking is free.
👟 Beach Access
A path through dunes leads to Nauset Light Beach. Wear comfortable shoes for the walk.
🌊 Beach Safety
Be aware of signs regarding predators if seals are spotted.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Don't miss the Three Sisters Lighthouses, a short walk away.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nauset Light for its iconic beauty and picturesque setting, often highlighting its connection to Cape Cod Chips. The beach is noted for its fine sand and pleasant atmosphere, though parking fees and seasonal amenity closures are common drawbacks. The historical significance and photogenic nature of the lighthouse make it a must-see for many.
"My husband and I visited Nauset Lighthouse on 10-31-25. The beach area was so clean and beautiful. I was so lucky to find some special rocks that someone had painted. It made me smile, and yes I took one. The lighthouse was beautiful and well taken care of. Definitely a great place to visit and have lunch. Maybe even go swimming 😳 . There was no charge to visit the lighthouse or beach area when we went, due to the Government shutdown. The bathrooms were not open during our visit."
Reenie Hill
"Once you arrive at the lighthouse by car, you have to pay around $20 for the large parking lot with clean restrooms. The clerk said that the parking ticket was valid for all parking spaces with beach access for that day.
The beautiful lighthouse makes a perfect Instagram motif, with the famous Cape Cod Chips brand.
Here you'll also find one of the oldest transatlantic submarine cable stations and other small twin lighthouses.
The path to the beautiful Nauset Light Beach leads through a beautiful coastal forest. Once you get down there, you'll be greeted by friendly beach patrols at the beach entrance. The beach has very fine sand, and here and there you'll find surfers with a decent swell. If you're lucky, you might see seals. But be careful: where seals swim, there are also the notorious predators, see the signs near the beach."
Mike
"The iconic Nauset Lighthouse, is situated exactly in the Cape's mid point, in the Eastham, MA. During the off season the parking is free (during the season June to September it is $20), and the restrooms are closed. The lighthouse is easily accessible. You probably noticed this lighthouse on the famous New England Cape Cod's chips. You can walk down to the ocean, the beach is clean, the sand is so soft, and the water is so clean. We have even spotted a seal there. Near the Nauset Lighthouse, there is a trail to non working Three sisters lighthouses. You can walk there around 5 minutes, or you can drive there, as they have a small 30min free parking lot there."
Rose Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nauset Light is located in Eastham, MA, within the Cape Cod National Seashore. It's accessible by car. Parking is available at the lighthouse and beach area.
Public transportation options are limited on Cape Cod. It's generally recommended to have a car for easy access to Nauset Light and other attractions.
You can drive directly to the Nauset Light Beach parking lot. From there, a path leads down to the beach.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Cape Cod National Seashore, though parking at Nauset Light may have separate fees during peak season. An NPS Pass can cover entry.
Biking is a popular way to explore Cape Cod. There are bike paths that can lead you to the vicinity of Nauset Light, and it's a scenic way to arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no ticket required to view Nauset Light from the outside. Seasonal tours of the lighthouse interior may require tickets or have specific operating hours.
The lighthouse grounds are generally accessible year-round. Interior tours are seasonal and typically available during the summer months. Check the National Park Service website for current hours.
Parking fees can range from $20-$25 per day during the peak season (June-September). Off-season parking is often free.
Restrooms are available in the parking lot during the peak season but are typically closed during the off-season.
Interior tours of Nauset Lighthouse are sometimes offered seasonally. It's best to check with the Cape Cod National Seashore for availability and any associated costs.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. Moody fog can also create dramatic shots, as seen in some Instagram reels.
Many visitors position themselves in the middle of the road leading to the lighthouse for the iconic shot with a bag of Cape Cod Chips.
Yes, the Nauset Light Beach itself offers stunning coastal scenery, and the Three Sisters Lighthouses provide additional photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is restricted within Cape Cod National Seashore. Check the NPS regulations for specific rules regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting seals.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
You can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, go surfing (there's a decent swell), and enjoy the scenic views. Beach patrols are present.
Yes, there are trails that lead down to the beach and also connect to the Three Sisters Lighthouses.
It's possible to spot seals swimming in the waters near Nauset Light Beach. Be aware of potential predators in the area.
The parking lot and lighthouse grounds are generally accessible. Access to the beach may involve stairs or sandy paths.
Originally built in 1877 and moved to its current Eastham location in 1923, Nauset Light has been relocated from its original cliff edge to preserve it.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no dining facilities directly at Nauset Light, Eastham and nearby towns like Orleans offer various restaurants, cafes, and seafood shacks.
Picnicking is a great option. You can bring your own food and enjoy it on the beach or at designated areas.
You can find Cape Cod Chips at local grocery stores and convenience shops throughout Cape Cod.
Cape Cod is famous for its seafood. You'll find numerous restaurants serving fresh lobster, clams, and fish in the surrounding towns.
Yes, many visitors enjoy having lunch in the vicinity of the lighthouse, either by bringing their own or visiting nearby eateries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the off-season for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. The walk to the beach is manageable for most children, and the chance to spot seals can be an exciting highlight. Remember to bring sun protection and be mindful of beach safety guidelines.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore different angles, from the classic postcard view to more artistic compositions on the beach. The Three Sisters Lighthouses also provide excellent subjects. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to use one, as they are restricted in the National Seashore.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Factor in potential parking fees and crowds, especially during summer. If you're on a tight schedule, prioritize the lighthouse photo and a quick stroll on the beach. Consider packing a picnic to maximize your time and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Nauset Light
Many visitors make a pilgrimage to Nauset Light specifically for the quintessential photo opportunity, often posing with a bag of the famous chips. This tradition highlights the lighthouse's deep connection to local culture and commerce. The surrounding area, part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, provides a stunning natural backdrop, with dunes and coastal vegetation adding to the charm.
Beyond its visual appeal, Nauset Light represents the enduring maritime heritage of Cape Cod. Its presence serves as a reminder of the region's seafaring past and the importance of lighthouses in guiding ships safely along the coast. The lighthouse's history of preservation and adaptation speaks to the community's commitment to maintaining its historical treasures for future generations.
Exploring Nauset Light Beach
Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the beach is a great spot for long walks along the shore. Keep an eye out for seals, but be mindful of the signs warning about potential predators in the water where seals are present. The natural beauty of the beach, combined with its proximity to the lighthouse, makes it an ideal place to spend an afternoon.
Access to Nauset Light Beach is via a path that winds through the dunes, offering a scenic approach. While the beach itself is a draw, its connection to the lighthouse and the broader Cape Cod National Seashore enhances its appeal, providing a complete coastal experience.
The Three Sisters Lighthouses
Visitors can easily walk to the Three Sisters from Nauset Light, or drive to a small, free parking lot nearby. Exploring these sister lighthouses offers a different perspective on the region's lighthouse history and provides additional opportunities for photography and learning about local heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit