Ponce de Leon Inlet Light, National Historic Landmark lighthouse in Ponce Inlet, United States.
Ponce de Leon Inlet Light is a lighthouse in Ponce Inlet, Florida, standing on the Atlantic coast south of Daytona Beach. The brick tower reaches 175 feet (53 m) in height and is surrounded by several historic support buildings, including three former keeper's cottages and an oil house.
Construction of the first tower at this inlet began in 1835, but it collapsed the following year after a Seminole attack and adverse weather. The current tower was built between 1884 and 1887 and served as a staffed navigation station until automation in 1953.
The station carries its Spanish name in honor of explorer Juan Ponce de León, who reached this coast in the early 16th century. Visitors today see the red brick facade and white lantern room, hallmarks of classic lighthouse design along Florida's Atlantic shore.
The site opens daily and includes a museum with maritime exhibits as well as access to the tower top via 203 steps. Those climbing the spiral staircase should wear sturdy footwear and take regular breaks, as the ascent is physically demanding.
The original Fresnel lens from the late 19th century weighs nearly 2 tons and consists of over 1,000 hand-polished glass prisms. This optical design could project a light signal more than 19 miles (30 km) out into the Atlantic.
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