Dutch Island Lighthouse
Historic Dutch Island Lighthouse offers scenic bay views and dramatic moonrise photo ops, accessible by kayak or from Fort Getty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, no park fees
Dutch Island Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, no park fees
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Dutch Island Lighthouse offers scenic bay views and dramatic moonrise photo ops, accessible by kayak or from Fort Getty.
"A picturesque lighthouse with challenging access, best for prepared adventurers and photographers."
Kayak to the Island
Kayak about 1/2 mile from Ft Getty for a closer look. Plan for tides and weather. :kayak:
Tick Prevention is Key
Trails are overgrown; ticks are abundant. Wear long clothing and use repellent. :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dutch Island Lighthouse
Dutch Island
Historic 1857 lighthouse offering scenic views of Narragansett Bay. A picturesque landmark for photographers.
Fort Getty Recreation Area
Jamestown, RI
Prime spot for viewing the lighthouse from shore. Offers kayak launch and ample parking, especially off-season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Dutch Island
Tick & Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak to the Island
Kayak about 1/2 mile from Ft Getty for a closer look. Plan for tides and weather. :kayak:
Tick Prevention is Key
Trails are overgrown; ticks are abundant. Wear long clothing and use repellent. :bug:
Visiting Jamestown
Photographer looking for what makes Jamestown Village unique
Shoreline Views
Fort Getty offers great views if island access is difficult. :camerawithflash:
Moonlit Magic
Catching the moonrise over the lighthouse is a breathtaking sight. :moon:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak to the Island
Kayak about 1/2 mile from Ft Getty for a closer look. Plan for tides and weather. :kayak:
Tick Prevention is Key
Trails are overgrown; ticks are abundant. Wear long clothing and use repellent. :bug:
Shoreline Views
Fort Getty offers great views if island access is difficult. :camerawithflash:
Moonlit Magic
Catching the moonrise over the lighthouse is a breathtaking sight. :moon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty of Dutch Island Lighthouse, especially its picturesque setting and the opportunity for stunning moonrise photography. However, the island's challenging access, overgrown trails, and significant tick population are frequently cited drawbacks, making it a destination best suited for the prepared adventurer.
"Isolated lighthouse on Dutch Island which is visible from the shore at Ft Getty in Jamestown, RI. There is a boat launch at Ft Getty so you can kayak to the island about ½ mile from the shore. Plenty of parking and best to view/visit off season to avoid any park fees and crowds from the camp grounds. 4 stars since you can’t get right up to the lighthouse."
Derrick Mong
"The State of Rhode Island cleared a bunch of trails and put in fencing to get ready to open this place up to the public, then gave up. Not an easy place to visit - all overgrown and loaded with ticks - no exaggeration. You'll pick up hundreds of little ones just brushing against grass. But an incredible spot to explore if you're up for it."
Josh Lipinski
"Pretty old lighthouse on Dutch Island. The lighthouse was built 1857 and is good visible from Fort Getty Recreation area in Jamestowwn."
Andreas Koehler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is on Dutch Island, accessible primarily by boat or kayak. Fort Getty Recreation Area in Jamestown, RI, is a common launch point, about a half-mile paddle away. You can also view it from the shore at Fort Getty.
Yes, Fort Getty Recreation Area offers plenty of parking, especially during the off-season. This is also where you can launch kayaks or boats.
No, Dutch Island is an island and cannot be reached by car. Access is limited to watercraft.
For the best experience, kayaking to the island is recommended. Alternatively, viewing it from Fort Getty provides good scenic perspectives.
Park fees may apply, especially during peak season or for camping. Visiting during the off-season can help avoid these costs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets required for the lighthouse itself, as it's on an island. However, access to Fort Getty Recreation Area might have associated fees, particularly during peak times.
Dutch Island is generally accessible when the surrounding waters are navigable. Fort Getty Recreation Area has its own operating hours, which are typically daylight-dependent.
While trails have been cleared, access can be challenging due to overgrowth and ticks. It's not as developed as some other public parks.
Reports suggest you can't get right up to the lighthouse itself, and the island's interior can be overgrown and difficult to navigate.
Visiting during the off-season is highly recommended to avoid crowds and potential park fees associated with the campgrounds at Fort Getty.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main draw is the historic lighthouse and the natural island environment. Photographers enjoy the scenic views, especially during moonrises.
Trails can be overgrown and are known for being tick-infested. Be prepared for a rugged experience if you plan to hike extensively.
Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and consider insect repellent due to ticks. Layers are advisable as coastal weather can change. :athletic_shoe: :bug:
Absolutely! The lighthouse, moonrises, and bay views make it a prime spot for photographers.
As an island environment, expect coastal birds and marine life. Be mindful of ticks on the island itself. :bird:
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself is the primary subject. Views from Fort Getty offer a good perspective, and moonrises create dramatic shots.
Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) offers beautiful light. Moonrises are particularly stunning, as captured in time-lapses.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Rhode Island Airport Corporation before flying a drone in the area. :drone:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant shots from shore. :camera:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of the environment. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do decide to kayak to the island with older children, ensure they are comfortable in a kayak and that you are well-prepared with tick repellent and protective clothing. The half-mile paddle is manageable for experienced kayakers, but safety should be the top priority. Focus on the experience of reaching the island and seeing the lighthouse from a unique perspective, rather than extensive exploration on the island itself. :kayak: :bug:
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to photograph a moonrise over the lighthouse; this is a recurring highlight for visitors and creates truly dramatic imagery.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Adventurers
Kayaking to the island adds another layer of adventure, allowing you to approach the lighthouse from the water and appreciate the coastal scenery. The half-mile paddle from Fort Getty is manageable for those with some kayaking experience. Once on the island, explore cautiously, respecting the natural environment. The isolation and the historical presence of the lighthouse create a distinct atmosphere for nature lovers and adventurers. :kayak: :world_map:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Dutch Island
When planning your trip, consider the off-season for a more peaceful experience and to potentially avoid any park fees associated with Fort Getty's campgrounds. While the State of Rhode Island has cleared some trails on the island, visitors should be aware that the terrain can be overgrown and tick-infested. This means Dutch Island is more suited for adventurous explorers rather than casual strollers. Proper preparation, including wearing long clothing and using insect repellent, is highly recommended.
The lighthouse itself, built in 1857, is a significant historical landmark. While you can see it from a distance or from the shore, reports indicate that getting directly up to the lighthouse structure might be restricted. The beauty of Dutch Island lies in its isolated charm and the picturesque views it offers of the West Passage of Narragansett Bay.
Photography Opportunities
One of the most breathtaking photographic opportunities highlighted by visitors is capturing the moonrise over the lighthouse. This dramatic celestial event creates stunning, atmospheric shots that are perfect for time-lapses or long-exposure photography.
When visiting Dutch Island for photography, be mindful of the island's conditions. The overgrown trails and potential for ticks mean you'll want to be prepared. However, the unique perspective and the chance to capture the lighthouse in various lighting conditions, especially during a moonrise, make the effort worthwhile for any photography enthusiast. :camerawithflash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit