Hog Island Light

Hog Island Light is a maritime lighthouse in Portsmouth standing on a concrete foundation in Narragansett Bay. The structure features a white conical tower mounted on a black cylindrical pier that rises directly from the water.

A light beacon was first established at this location in 1886, but the current cast iron structure dates to 1901. It was built to guide ships safely through the dangerous reef near Mount Hope Bay.

This lighthouse represents Rhode Island's maritime navigation history as the final light station formally built in the state's waters. Visitors can observe the role such structures played in keeping ships safe from dangerous coastal hazards.

The best time to visit is during clear weather when the waters are calm and visibility is good. The structure sits on open water, so a boat trip is needed to get a close view of the lighthouse.

The structure uses a modern LED optics system to produce its light signals instead of the traditional methods that historical lighthouses relied on. This allows for more dependable operation and better energy efficiency from a distance.

Location: Portsmouth

GPS coordinates: 37.39400,-75.70100

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:02