The United States is home to more lighthouses than any other country. Many of them welcome visitors for daily tours, but not all give the opportunity to stay overnight.
These one-of-a-kind homes give guests the full experience of living at a lighthouse. If you're looking for something different to do while vacationing, here are 8 lighthouses you can rent out for a unique getaway.
Wings Neck Lighthouse
Wings Neck Lighthouse in Massachusetts is close to Cape Cod and only steps from the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can enjoy a private beach and walks along the shoreline. Wings Neck faces to the west and offers 360 degree views of the ocean. This allows guests to enjoy a gorgeous nightly sunset from any room.
The old keeper's quarters hold the building's original historic charm. Guests will enjoy a large living area with fireplace and space to sleep eight. A breezeway can be found through a door in the family room that connects directly to the lighthouse. Climb the spiral mahogany stairs to the top and guests will find a glass-encased viewing area.
Cuckolds Lighthouse
The Inn at Cuckolds Lighthouse is located on the shores of Maine. The retreat offers ocean views from every angle. Guests can pass the time by climbing the historic tower or walking along the granite rocks.
Guests can enjoy their stay in either the east or west suite. Both offer luxury accommodations, stylish furnishings and access to fresh air blowing in from the coastline. For ultimate privacy, the entire island is also available for renting out.
Saugerties Lighthouse
Nestled on the Hudson River in the town of Saugerties, N.Y., the Saugerties Lighthouse offers overnight accommodations in its renovated red-brick bed and breakfast. Renovations preserve the historic early 20th century feel. Inside guests will find a museum, gift shop, parlor, kitchen, keeper's quarters and two guest bedrooms.
Parlor windows facing the west open to a view of Esopus Creek. This is the place guests will gather to enjoy a warm fire in the winter and cool breezes in the summer. The Saugerties Lighthouse is only a half-mile from the town accessible by a nature trail. Interior views from the lighthouse are only for guests staying at the property. During certain times of the year, the property is open for scheduled tours to educate the public on the history and preservation of such a treasured landmark.
Braddock Lighthouse
Braddock Point is one of the very few privately owned and fully-functioning lighthouses in the United States. It is located on Lake Ontario in Rochester, N.Y. Braddock Point offers seasonal accommodations to the lucky few who reserve their stay.
Each of the three suites on the property emulate the Victorian Era and offer a private bath along with modern amenities such as cable and Wi-Fi. The lighthouse tower offers vivid views of Lake Ontario. Braddock Point's convenient location is just a short driving distance to many other attractions in Rochester, such as wine tours, museums, seasonal festivals and more.
East Brother Light Station
East Brother Light Station sits on an island just 30 minutes from San Francisco. This is a unique California destination where guests can enjoy views of the city skyline, Mount Tamalpais and the Marin Coastline. East Brother Light Station offers five bedrooms. Four of them are located in the lighthouse itself.
Upon arrival guests receive complimentary champagne and hor d'oeuvres. Stays at the lighthouse include multi-course dinners, wine and gourmet breakfast. Learn all about the history of the East Brother Light Station with a full island tour.
Sands Hill Lighthouse
The newly renovated Sands Hill Lighthouse Inn, located on the Keweenaw Peninsula, is one of Michigan's hidden gems. The largest lighthouse on the Great Lakes offers spectacular sunrise views from private balconies, the rock shoreline, the Inn's front porch and the lighthouse tower. It is far enough off the beaten path for relaxation, but close enough for those who looking to explore. Sands Hill is only 30 minutes from area attractions such as mine tours, waterfalls and shopping.
The Inn depicts the true Victorian spirit where guests can enjoy a gourmet breakfast and an open common area with a warm fire while listening to live piano music. Eight rooms are available for overnight stays at Sands Hill. 2 of which offer views of Lake Superior from a direct access balcony. Those looking for a romantic getaway should choose the King Room which offers balcony views and an in-room fireplace.
Rose Island Lighthouse
Not far from Newport, R.I., the Rose Island Lighthouse is accessible only by a 32' lobster boat. Regular trips to shore are not available, so if you're looking for seclusion, this one is a good pick. This 18-acre property is also home to the Fort Hamilton Military Barracks as well as birds and other wildlife. Kayaks are available for guests to enjoy while staying on the island.
Guests can choose from six different sleeping rooms, some of which are located on the first and second floor in the lighthouse. The Foghorn Building offers a separate room for two with incredible window views. This lighthouse offers a more rustic experience. There is no Wi-Fi and electric allows for phone and laptop charging, but no hair dryers or other high power devices.
Little River Lighthouse
This 15-acre island escape at the tip of Cutler Harbor is one of Maine's great attraction and is just a twelve minute boat ride from land. Guests can pass the time at Little River Lighthouse walking trails through whispering pines or settling in on the rocks while watching the sunset over the water. The top of the lighthouse tower also boasts grand views of the horizon.
The lighthouse offers three different rooms for overnight stays as well as access to full kitchens and living areas. All come with the option of picnic tables, lawn chairs and outdoor grilling while taking in the sights of the island.
