Gay Head Light, Lighthouse in Aquinnah, Massachusetts.
Gay Head Light is a red brick cylindrical tower with a black lantern that stands 15.5 m tall on the western tip of Martha's Vineyard at Devil's Bridge reef. The structure rises prominently above the colored cliff edge, offering views across open water.
A wooden lighthouse was first built in 1799 to protect ships from hazardous reefs in the area. The current brick structure was constructed in 1856 to replace the original tower.
The Wampanoag Native American people have deep ties to these cliffs through their history and presence in the region. The landscape itself holds cultural meaning that extends beyond the lighthouse structure.
The tower was relocated 40 m from its original position in 2015 to prevent erosion from destroying it. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather on the cliffs and wear appropriate clothing for changing conditions.
The rotating beacon alternates between white and red flashes every 7.5 seconds, guiding vessels through dangerous waters near the reef. This distinctive light pattern has been a reliable marker for captains navigating the area for generations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
