Nobska Light

Nobska Light is a lighthouse in Woods Hole and features a cylindrical cast iron tower painted white with windows running up its height. The structure sits on a rocky point extending into the water and uses white flash signals along with a red sector light to warn vessels of shallow waters and dangerous shoals.

The original light station was established in 1828 to guide ships through this treacherous passage, and the current cast iron tower replaced the earlier structure in 1876. This replacement reflected improvements in lighthouse technology and the region's continued investment in maritime safety.

The lighthouse marks a crucial meeting point of major shipping routes and reflects how deeply the sea shaped life in this region. Its presence reminds visitors of the connections between communities and the ocean that defined New England for generations.

The lighthouse sits on a rocky point accessible from a nearby parking area, though the path involves walking over uneven terrain and stones. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for wind and spray from the water, particularly on days when conditions are rough.

The Friends of Nobska Light organization took over management after the US Coast Guard transferred ownership and has since opened the lighthouse to public visits. This local stewardship model has helped preserve the site as an active part of community life.

Location: Falmouth

Inception: 1828

Height: 12 m

GPS coordinates: 41.51640,-70.65750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57