Things to Do in Nauset Light

Nauset Light –
Historic Lighthouse
of Cape Cod

Nauset Light is one of the most recognizable landmarks on Cape Cod. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean near Coast Guard Beach, the red-and-white lighthouse has guided ships along the Outer Cape for more than a century. Today it stands as a historic symbol of the region's maritime heritage and offers visitors a scenic place to explore the coastline.

What it is:

Historic coastal lighthouse

Known for:

Iconic red-and-white tower and ocean views

Best for:

Photography, history lovers, scenic stops

Open seasonally:

Tours available during summer months

Camera for lighthouse photos
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Light jacket for ocean breeze

Originally built in 1877
Moved inland in 1996 to protect it from coastal erosion
Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore

⚠️ Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos.

Things to Do

See the Historic Lighthouse

Walk around the lighthouse grounds and take photos of this classic Cape Cod landmark.

Take a Lighthouse Tour

During summer, guided tours allow visitors to climb inside and learn about the lighthouse's history.

Enjoy the Ocean Views

The nearby bluff offers beautiful views of the Atlantic coastline.

Walk to Coast Guard Beach

A short distance away is one of the most scenic beaches in the National Seashore.

Learn Maritime History

Interpretive signs explain how lighthouses helped guide ships safely along the dangerous Outer Cape waters.

History & Why
It's Special

Nauset Light was originally constructed in 1877 in nearby Chatham before being moved to Eastham in the 1920s. Its distinctive red-and-white design made it highly visible to ships navigating the often dangerous waters off Cape Cod's coast.

By the 1990s, coastal erosion threatened to send the lighthouse tumbling into the ocean. In a remarkable engineering effort in 1996, the entire structure was carefully moved more than 300 feet inland to protect it from the advancing shoreline. Today, Nauset Light stands as both a historic navigational aid and a symbol of Cape Cod's deep connection to the sea. The lighthouse is also widely recognized from the packaging of Cape Cod Potato Chips, making it one of the most photographed landmarks on the Cape.

⚠️ Notice: Please stay within designated visitor areas and respect National Seashore guidelines.

Places to Eat Nearby