St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc.
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St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

4.7
·15k reviews·St. Augustine, United States

Climb 219 steps to panoramic views from an iconic 1874 lighthouse, explore maritime history, and enjoy family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Climb 219 steps to panoramic views from an iconic 1874 lighthouse, explore maritime history, and enjoy family fun.

4.7
(15k reviews)

"The view at the top is absolutely breathtaking and so worth it."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Bring Water!

Essential for summer visits, especially during the lighthouse climb.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing stairs and exploring grounds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lighthouse Climb

Lighthouse Climb

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Ascend 219 steps for panoramic views of St. Augustine and the Atlantic Ocean.

Instagram+1
Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum

Keeper's House

Discover maritime history, artifacts, and exhibits in the air-conditioned Keeper's House.

Reddit+1
Shipwreck Discovery Play Area

Shipwreck Discovery Play Area

Grounds

An engaging, hands-on area for kids to explore maritime themes and history.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Climb

Prepare for 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse! While manageable with rest stops, it's a workout. Go early or late to avoid peak heat and crowds, especially in summer. Instagram+1

Beyond the Beacon

Your ticket includes more than just the lighthouse climb. Explore the Keeper's House museum, grounds, and the Shipwreck Discovery Play Area. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season evenings
Why
Magical Nights of Lights display
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is your sign to visit st. Augustine, Florida this December for the nights of lights✨🎄 #cityoflights #christmaslights #staugustine #florida
@valentinaamayaw
55.9K likes • 669.8K views

💧 Bring Water!

Essential for summer visits, especially during the lighthouse climb. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing stairs and exploring grounds. Instagram

Replying to @lezbeanpanda79 @✨ St. Augustine, Florida #staugustine #staugustinefl #staugustineflorida #staugustinebeach #nightoflightsstaugustine #staugustinelighthouse #florida
@pensacola_bigfoot
52.3K likes • 1.3M views
Climb to new heights on your next in-state adventure! 🌟 Perhaps, a lighthouse? 😎 #LoveFL #StAugustine 📍: St. Augustine Lighthouse, @floridashistoriccoast
lovefl
30.2K likes • 1.4M views

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the lighthouse and museum. Reddit

✨ Holiday Magic

Experience the 'Nights of Lights' for a dazzling festive atmosphere. TikTok+1

Climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views of St. Augustine, Florida! Built from 1871-1874, this lighthouse was designed for visitors, with a wide spiral staircase and landings along the way up to rest. Look out of the windows at the 1876 Keepers’ House and the beautiful ocean! 📍Hours are 9 AM-6 PM seven days a week, with special nighttime events also available. ...
stauglighthouse
271 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Bring Water!

Essential for summer visits, especially during the lighthouse climb. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be climbing stairs and exploring grounds. Instagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the lighthouse and museum. Reddit

✨ Holiday Magic

Experience the 'Nights of Lights' for a dazzling festive atmosphere. TikTok+1

📸 Capture the Views

The top offers stunning photo opportunities. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the St. Augustine Lighthouse for its breathtaking views from the top and the educational experience within the maritime museum. The climb, though challenging with 219 steps, is made manageable by rest stops and historical insights. Some find the admission price a bit high, but most agree the overall experience is well worth it.

"My wife and I went to the special event at the top of the beautiful historic lighthouse. The event is held once a month to watch the sunset and the full Moon rise. We were rewarded with a beautiful sunset and the full moon rise over the ocean was awesome. Our experience was seriously diminished by the male volunteer that was supposed to be pouring champagne for all the guests but seemed totally focused in looking after two younger women whose glass were always full while we had to ask several times for a second half glass. The volunteer attitude changed a five star experience to barely a three stars.
In future please have the volunteer treat all guests equally. At the opposite end we wish to commend Tammy as very pleasant and helpful with information about the lighthouse and in passing food around."

Patrick Baehl de Lescure

"The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is an absolute must-visit. The property is full of rich history, and the view from the top of the lighthouse is truly breathtaking. While the climb does involve a lot of steps, it is well worth the effort. Beyond the lighthouse itself, there’s so much to explore—from learning how boats were built to seeing how recovered artifacts are carefully cleaned and preserved. This site offers a wonderful mix of history, hands-on learning, and stunning scenery. Definitely worth a stop when visiting St. Augustine."

Mike Mann

"The set up is serene. Before even walking into the museum you're greeted immediately and all questions answered. Then you can walk leisurely through out. 218 steps in the lighthouse. Then exhibits , even little hiking trails around made it a full immersive experience. It's honestly a romantic, scientific and historical experience. Worth it."

Allison “Allicat” Wallace

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Educational museum exhibits
Manageable climb with rest stops

What People Dislike

Admission price considered high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is located at 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Many visitors also use ride-sharing services. Instagram

While direct public bus routes might be limited, the St. Augustine Old Town Trolley Tours often include stops at or near the lighthouse, making it a convenient option for exploring multiple attractions. Reddit

If you're staying downtown, consider a scenic drive across the Bridge of Lions. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share service is a quick option. Some visitors enjoy biking to the lighthouse if the weather is pleasant. TikTok

Yes, there is a dedicated parking lot for visitors at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. It's generally spacious enough to accommodate visitors, especially if you arrive earlier in the day. Reddit

It's a bit of a walk, approximately 2-3 miles depending on your starting point on St. Augustine Beach. While doable for some, it's more comfortable to drive or take a trolley. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is around $17-$18 per adult, which includes access to the lighthouse climb, the museum, and the grounds. Prices can vary slightly, so it's best to check their official website for the most current rates. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or holidays like 'Nights of Lights,' to secure your spot and avoid potential sell-outs. TikTok+1

The lighthouse and museum are typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. However, hours can change seasonally or for special events, so always verify on their official website before your visit. Instagram

Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and children. Check the official St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum website for details on any available promotions or group rates. Reddit

Your admission ticket grants you access to climb the lighthouse, explore the Keeper's House museum exhibits, wander the grounds, and visit the Shipwreck Discovery Play Area. Reddit+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

There are 219 steps to reach the top of the lighthouse. The climb is broken up with landings where you can rest and read historical information. Instagram+1

The climb is considered moderately challenging due to the number of steps. However, the landings provide ample opportunity to rest, and the views are widely reported as worth the effort. Reddit+1

The museum, housed in the historic Keeper's House, features exhibits on maritime history, shipwrecks, the lives of lighthouse keepers, and local history. It's also air-conditioned, offering a cool respite. Reddit+1

Yes, the Shipwreck Discovery Play Area is designed for children to engage with maritime themes through interactive exhibits. The climb itself can also be an adventure for older kids. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the lighthouse and museum, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. The views from the top are particularly photogenic. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing beautiful golden hour hues. The 'Nights of Lights' event provides a unique, festive photographic opportunity. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The panoramic views from the top are spectacular, offering sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, the Matanzas River, and the historic city of St. Augustine. Instagram+1

From the grounds, you can capture the iconic black-and-white stripes against the sky. Consider framing it with the surrounding natural landscape or historic buildings for varied perspectives. Instagram

Typically, drone usage is restricted at historical sites and attractions to ensure safety and preserve the experience for all visitors. It's best to check the lighthouse's official policy regarding drones. TikTok

A versatile zoom lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide-angle views from the top and details of the lighthouse structure. A prime lens can also be excellent for low-light conditions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The St. Augustine Lighthouse offers a fantastic adventure for families. The Shipwreck Discovery Play Area is a hit with younger children, allowing them to explore maritime themes in a fun, interactive way. Reddit The lighthouse climb itself can be an exciting challenge for older kids, with the landings providing educational stops along the way. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider the physical demands of the climb for very young children. Reddit

Beyond the lighthouse, the museum offers engaging exhibits that can spark curiosity about history and the sea. Many families find the entire experience to be both educational and incredibly fun, creating lasting memories of their visit to America's oldest city. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While admission to the lighthouse is a bit higher than some other attractions, it offers significant value by including access to the lighthouse, the museum, and the grounds. Reddit To maximize your budget, consider visiting on a weekday morning to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Pack your own water and snacks to save on on-site purchases. If you're looking for free activities in St. Augustine, exploring the historic streets, beaches, and Castillo de San Marcos (exterior views) can be great options, but the lighthouse experience provides a unique, memorable activity that many find worth the cost. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a photographer's dream. The iconic black-and-white stripes offer a striking subject against the blue Florida sky. Instagram Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, capturing the structure in its most dramatic hues. The panoramic views from the top are unparalleled, perfect for sweeping landscape shots of the coast and city. Instagram+1

Don't forget to capture the details: the intricate brickwork, the Fresnel lens (if accessible), and the historic Keeper's House. During the holiday season, the 'Nights of Lights' event provides a unique opportunity for festive night photography, with the lighthouse often illuminated as part of the display. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Climb: Navigating the 219 Steps

The ascent to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse is a signature experience, comprising 219 steps. While this might sound daunting, the climb is designed with visitor comfort in mind. Wide spiral staircases and strategically placed landings offer opportunities to rest and catch your breath. Each landing often features informative plaques detailing the lighthouse's history and the lives of its keepers, turning the climb into an educational journey. InstagramReddit

Visitors consistently report that the effort is well worth the reward. The panoramic views from the lantern room are breathtaking, providing a unique perspective of St. Augustine's historic cityscape, the shimmering Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding coastal landscape. InstagramReddit It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months, as the climb can be strenuous. Going earlier in the day can help avoid the peak heat and larger crowds. Reddit

For those with mobility concerns, it's important to note that the lighthouse climb is physically demanding and not accessible for individuals who cannot navigate stairs. However, the museum and grounds offer plenty to explore for all visitors. Reddit

Beyond the Light: Exploring the Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is more than just a climb; it's a deep dive into the region's rich maritime heritage. Housed within the beautifully preserved Keeper's House, the museum offers a cool, air-conditioned escape and a wealth of historical information. Reddit Exhibits cover a range of fascinating topics, from the construction and operation of the lighthouse itself to tales of shipwrecks, the U.S. Life-Saving Service, and the daily lives of the keepers and their families who maintained the beacon. Reddit

Visitors often praise the museum for its engaging displays and the artifacts on view, which bring history to life. You can learn about the Fresnel lens that once powered the light, discover local legends, and understand the vital role the lighthouse played in maritime safety along the Florida coast. Reddit The museum provides context for the lighthouse's significance and offers a more comprehensive understanding of its place in American history. It's a perfect complement to the physical experience of climbing the tower. Reddit

A Festive Glow: St. Augustine's 'Nights of Lights'

During the holiday season, St. Augustine transforms into a magical wonderland, and the lighthouse is a key part of this enchanting display. The city's renowned 'Nights of Lights' event, which runs from mid-November through January, bathes the historic streets and landmarks in millions of twinkling white lights. TikTok+1 The lighthouse itself becomes a beacon of holiday cheer, often adorned with festive illuminations that can be seen from various points in the city. Instagram

While the lighthouse climb might have limited hours during this period, the grounds and the view of the illuminated city from afar are spectacular. Many visitors find that experiencing the 'Nights of Lights' from a boat tour or a scenic overlook provides a stunning perspective of the entire illuminated coastline, with the lighthouse adding its own special sparkle to the scene. TikTok It's a highly recommended experience for those visiting St. Augustine during the winter months, offering a truly memorable holiday atmosphere. TikTok

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