Sankaty Head Light

The brick and granite lighthouse features a white tower with a prominent red band and black lantern reaching 70 feet into the sky.

Built in 1850 after Congress allocated 12,000 dollars, this navigational structure received one of the first Fresnel lenses in the United States.

The lighthouse plays a central role in Nantucket's maritime heritage, guiding vessels through dangerous waters near this former whaling center.

The grounds remain open from sunrise to sunset, while interior access remains restricted during ongoing restoration work of stairs and windows.

In 2007, the entire 405-ton structure moved 405 feet inland to protect it from coastal erosion threatening its original location.

Location: Nantucket

Height: 21 m

GPS coordinates: 41.28439,-69.96624

Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:44