Two Harbors Breakwater Lighthouse
Iconic lighthouse at the end of a long breakwater on Lake Superior, offering stunning views and a scenic walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Two Harbors Breakwater Lighthouse
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic lighthouse at the end of a long breakwater on Lake Superior, offering stunning views and a scenic walk.
"The enormous long dock is cool. I walked to the end and there is a little lighthouse."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The breakwater is long and can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential for a pleasant walk.
📸 Bring Your Camera
This spot is incredibly photogenic, especially the lighthouse and the expansive lake views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Two Harbors Breakwater Lighthouse
End of the breakwater
Iconic lighthouse at the end of a long breakwater, offering stunning Lake Superior views.
Breakwater Walk
Lake Superior shoreline
A scenic 7/8-mile walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, perfect for photos and fresh air.
Lake Superior Views
Along the breakwater and shoreline
Experience the vastness and beauty of Lake Superior from the breakwater and rocky shores.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk the Breakwater
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The breakwater is long and can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential for a pleasant walk.
📸 Bring Your Camera
This spot is incredibly photogenic, especially the lighthouse and the expansive lake views.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walk
Take your time on the breakwater, listen to the waves, and soak in the scenery.
🚢 Watch the Ships
If you're lucky, you might see iron ore ships coming and going from the nearby docks.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The breakwater is long and can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential for a pleasant walk.
📸 Bring Your Camera
This spot is incredibly photogenic, especially the lighthouse and the expansive lake views.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walk
Take your time on the breakwater, listen to the waves, and soak in the scenery.
🚢 Watch the Ships
If you're lucky, you might see iron ore ships coming and going from the nearby docks.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Path
The breakwater walkway is dog-friendly, making it a great outing for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Two Harbors Breakwater Lighthouse for its stunning natural beauty and the enjoyable walk along the breakwater. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere, the impressive views of Lake Superior, and the opportunity to watch ships. It's a highly recommended stop for its scenic value and relaxing ambiance.
"Hung out here waiting for the laundry machine to finish. One of the favorite parts of our trip! Go off the main trail by the lighthouse and enjoy a new angel of superior"
Chandra Burns
"Watched iron ore ships come and go from the docks. There is a small lighthouse museum. And a dog friendly walkway on the breakwater."
Sherri D
"What a neat place. A place to relax or let kids run around. The enormous long dock is cool. I walked to the end and there is a little lighthouse. Listened to the water and walked back in."
Jennifer Nysveen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lighthouse is located at the end of the breakwater in Two Harbors, Minnesota. You can access the breakwater from the parking area near the lighthouse. It's a popular stop along the scenic North Shore drive. 
Yes, there is parking available near the start of the breakwater, making it convenient to access the lighthouse.
No, the breakwater is for pedestrian use only. You'll need to walk to reach the lighthouse.
The breakwater is a long, rocky path, so it may be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers. It's best suited for walking.
Two Harbors itself offers amenities, and nearby attractions include Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to walk the breakwater and see the lighthouse. It's a public access area.
The breakwater and lighthouse exterior are accessible year-round. The lighthouse itself may have limited hours for interior tours or exhibits, which are often seasonal.
Yes, there is a small lighthouse museum located at the lighthouse, offering historical exhibits.
Information on interior access to the lighthouse can vary. It's best to check locally for current tour availability and hours. Some sources mention it houses a B&B.
Parking is generally free in the lot near the breakwater.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography. However, the breakwater walk itself is scenic at any time of day.
You can capture stunning shots of the lighthouse, the vastness of Lake Superior, the rocky shoreline, and potentially iron ore ships.
Drone regulations can vary by location and park. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant ships.
The entire breakwater offers great vantage points. Walking to the end of the breakwater provides a unique perspective.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The breakwater is about 7/8 of a mile each way, so allow at least 1-2 hours to walk to the lighthouse, explore, and walk back.
You can walk the breakwater, visit the lighthouse museum, enjoy the views of Lake Superior, and watch for ships.
Walking on the breakwater in winter can be hazardous due to ice and slippery conditions. Exercise extreme caution or avoid it if conditions are poor.
Restrooms and benches may be limited. It's advisable to use facilities in Two Harbors before heading to the breakwater.
Yes, fishing is popular from the breakwater, with catches including bass, walleye, and northern pike.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for ships coming in and out of the harbor and to listen to the waves. The rocky shoreline offers opportunities for simple rock-collecting or skipping stones (with supervision). The nearby town of Two Harbors also has other family-friendly options, including ice cream shops and parks.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before you go. The breakwater provides a stable platform, but always be mindful of wave action and slippery surfaces, especially in inclement weather. It's a great place to combine a scenic walk with a rewarding fishing session.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Breakwater Walk: A Traveler's Perspective
+1Many visitors find this walk to be one of the favorite parts of their trip, emphasizing the importance of putting the phone away to truly 'enjoy a piece of heaven.'
Two Harbors Lighthouse: History and Significance
This historic red-brick structure has guided ships for over a century, playing a vital role in the maritime history of the region. While its primary function was navigation, the lighthouse now also serves as a point of interest for tourists and a reminder of the area's seafaring past. Beyond its historical significance, the lighthouse area offers a glimpse into the industrial heritage of Two Harbors, with nearby ore docks where iron ore ships are a common sight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit