Long Point Lighthouse Provincetown
Iconic lighthouse at the tip of Cape Cod, accessible via a unique rocky breakwater walk with abundant seal sightings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Safest access to lighthouse
Long Point Lighthouse Provincetown
Best Time
Safest access to lighthouse
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic lighthouse at the tip of Cape Cod, accessible via a unique rocky breakwater walk with abundant seal sightings.
"The walk across the breakwater to get here is a unique experience. Hikers must step carefully while traversing the jagged rock."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Closed-toe shoes are essential for the rocky causeway. Flip-flops are a no-go!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The walk is longer than it looks, and it gets hot. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Long Point Lighthouse
Tip of Long Point Peninsula
Iconic lighthouse at the wild edge of Cape Cod, offering sweeping ocean views and a sense of remote adventure.
+1Seal Watching
Sandbars near Long Point
Observe numerous gray and harbor seals basking on sandbars, a delightful wildlife encounter.
The Breakwater Walk
Provincetown Harbor to Long Point
A unique, challenging hike across a rocky causeway with stunning coastal scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Tide & Sun
Footwear & Protection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Closed-toe shoes are essential for the rocky causeway. Flip-flops are a no-go!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The walk is longer than it looks, and it gets hot. Stay hydrated!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sunscreen, hats, and light clothing are vital to prevent sunburn.
⏰ Check the Tides
Plan your walk during low tide to safely cross the breakwater.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Closed-toe shoes are essential for the rocky causeway. Flip-flops are a no-go!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The walk is longer than it looks, and it gets hot. Stay hydrated!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sunscreen, hats, and light clothing are vital to prevent sunburn.
⏰ Check the Tides
Plan your walk during low tide to safely cross the breakwater.
⚠️ Tick & Poison Ivy Alert
Be vigilant for ticks and poison ivy, especially near the lighthouse.
🚢 Consider the Shuttle
A shuttle service is available from MacMillan Pier for an easier approach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning views and unique experience of walking the breakwater to Long Point Lighthouse. The chance to see seals is a major highlight. However, many caution about underestimating the walk's difficulty, the intense sun, and the need for proper footwear and hydration.
"We walked the jetty over and then along the beach some, decent walk, must time high tide. It's a jetty not a sidewalk so be ready, took about 45mins to cross. We dis just about 6mile loop. Clean, peaceful,and beautiful."
Bob lynch
"Great hike to both lighthouses. If the tide looks good you should consider it. About 20 -30 minutes across just the large rock section. 2 hours (+) total if you go to either lighthouse
Saw a couple groups of seals, lots of beach combing, and beautiful scenery.
Did experience some ticks unfortunately near the lighthouse. Make sure to check all over your clothing and self for any signs."
Scuba Tyloo
"We walked to the lighthouse via the Causeway and then through the beach. It took us about 3 hours, maybe more, because we stopped a few times to swim and to watch the seals.
Some highlights from our walk:
1. We didn’t realize the distance. We thought it would take about an hour, so we didn’t bring enough water. It was extremely hot, and we ran out of water as soon as we crossed the causeway.
2. Even though we applied sunscreen right before starting, it wasn’t enough. We got sunburned. I recommend wearing light, protective clothing and bringing sunscreen.
3. Wear sneakers. There’s a lot of poison ivy, especially when crossing the island. Also, walking on sand in flip-flops is tough, and going barefoot isn’t much better because the shore is quite rocky and full of shells.
But even though we weren’t fully prepared for this walk, we absolutely loved it. The views are stunning, we swam several times along the way, saw plenty of seals. It is definitely worth it."
Anastasiia Shults
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Long Point Lighthouse by walking the breakwater from the Provincetown shoreline, which is about a 2-3 hour round trip, or by taking the Long Point Shuttle from MacMillan Pier.
The walk involves navigating a rocky breakwater and sandy dunes, which can be challenging, especially in hot weather or blustery conditions. Proper footwear is crucial.
No, you cannot drive directly to Long Point Lighthouse. Access is primarily by walking the breakwater or using the shuttle service.
The hike to Long Point Lighthouse and back can be around 4.3 miles, depending on your starting point and route.
Parking in Provincetown can be limited and expensive. It's advisable to research parking options in advance or consider public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no tickets required to walk to the lighthouse. However, if you opt for the Long Point Shuttle, there will be a fee.
The lighthouse itself is a navigational aid and is always accessible from the outside. The walking path and shuttle service have operational times, especially dependent on tides.
There is no entrance fee for the natural area of Long Point. The only cost would be for the optional shuttle service.
While the lighthouse is always visible, the accessibility of the breakwater walk is highly dependent on tide conditions, making it best visited during daylight hours and low tide.
While there isn't a formal guided tour of the lighthouse structure itself, the walk offers a self-guided exploration of the unique landscape and history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy the scenic walk, observe seals, swim in the ocean, explore the sandy beaches, and admire the historic lighthouse.
You're likely to see numerous seals basking on the sandbars. Birdwatching is also popular in the area.
It can be, but requires careful supervision due to the rocky terrain and ocean access. Ensure children have appropriate footwear and are well-hydrated.
The lighthouse itself, the expansive ocean views, the rocky breakwater, and the seals all make for excellent photographic subjects.
There are no facilities directly at Long Point Lighthouse. It's recommended to use restrooms in Provincetown before you begin your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the lighthouse and coastal scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for photographing seals from a distance.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check current FAA and local regulations before flying a drone in the area.
Experiment with different angles from the breakwater, capture the lighthouse against the vast ocean, or focus on the wildlife like seals.
Consider capturing the abstract patterns of the rocks, the textures of the sand, or the dramatic interplay of light and shadow on the lighthouse.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the Long Point Shuttle for a less strenuous option, especially with younger children. 🚶♀️ Active Adventurers
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Capture the dramatic textures of the rocky breakwater during different light conditions, especially during golden hour for breathtaking shots. Don't miss the chance to photograph the seals basking on the sandbars – they add a unique element to your portfolio. Consider drone photography for sweeping aerial views, but always check local regulations first. The natural beauty and unique landscape have also inspired artists, with paintings of the lighthouse being a popular theme. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Breakwater: A Unique Challenge
Timing is absolutely critical when planning your breakwater trek. You must aim to complete the walk during low tide. Mistiming the tides can lead to being stranded on the rocks, necessitating a rescue.
Beyond the physical challenge, the breakwater walk provides stunning coastal views. The juxtaposition of the rugged rocks against the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean is a photographer's dream.
+1 Remember to pack essentials like water and sunscreen, as there are no facilities once you leave Provincetown. Wildlife Encounters: Seals and Seabirds
Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience. Beyond the seals, the area is also a popular spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for various seabirds that frequent the coastline.
While the focus is often on the seals, remember that this is a natural habitat. Be mindful of your surroundings and leave no trace. The experience of observing wildlife in its natural environment adds a significant layer of wonder to a visit to Long Point.
The Long Point Shuttle: An Alternative Approach
This service is ideal for visitors with mobility concerns, those short on time, or anyone who wants a more relaxed way to experience the peninsula. The shuttle ride itself provides a different perspective of the coastline and harbor. Once you arrive at Long Point, you can explore the lighthouse area and enjoy the views without the strenuous hike.
It's a great option for families or individuals who want to maximize their time in Provincetown while still experiencing the beauty of Long Point. It's important to note that the shuttle service operates on a schedule and may be subject to weather conditions. Confirming departure times and availability in advance is recommended.
This option makes the iconic Long Point Lighthouse accessible to a wider range of visitors, ensuring everyone can enjoy its unique charm. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit