Chatham Light

Chatham Light is a white cylindrical tower standing on the eastern edge of Cape Cod, serving as a navigation aid for passing vessels. The structure sits atop a bluff and offers views of the Atlantic coastline and the sandbars that shape the local waters below.

This station was built in 1808 as a navigation point on Cape Cod and came after earlier attempts to guide vessels in these waters. The original wooden towers were replaced with cast iron structures in the late 1800s, which have remained in use since then.

The lighthouse remains tied to local maritime culture, serving as a beacon that shaped how people here understand their relationship with the ocean. Residents view it as a symbol of protection and navigation that has guided their community for generations.

Visitors can join guided tours during the warmer months to climb the interior stairs and reach the observation level with views of the coastline. It is best to wear comfortable shoes for the climb and plan your visit around the tour schedule, as access is restricted to guided sessions.

The tower becomes particularly dramatic during storms when waves crash against the cliffs and the beam cuts through rough seas. These intense conditions reveal why this structure has remained so vital to maritime safety in this challenging stretch of coastline.

Location: Chatham

Operator: U.S. Coast Guard

Address: Main Street

GPS coordinates: 41.67140,-69.94988

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:02