Edgartown Lighthouse was built in 1817 and placed on a man-made island off the shores of Edgartown to aid sailors in their whaling endevours. Originally only accessible by boat, a foot bridge was created in 1830. Because of the lighthouse's poor construction, it was repaired many times over the years before a hurricane completely destroyed it in 1938. The bridge was also destroyed and replaced with a breakwater path. The lighthouse structure that stands now is a 45-foot cast iron tower. This tower was originally located at Cranes Beach, Ipswich, but it was disassembled and brought to Edgartown. Although the lighthouse is still in its original location, shifts in sand and rocks have filled in the areas between the island and shore, which has made the island much larger over the years.
Free street parking is available, and there are a few different paths that lead to the breakwater path depending on where you can find parking. Be aware that it is a bit of a walk to the lighthouse from the street. However, although it may seem far, you hardly notice the distance with the views all around.
Once you get to the lighthouse area, you can watch the boats going in and out of the harbor, fish, or spend some time enjoying the soft sandy beach that stretches all around. Once you approach the lighthouse, it does cost $5 to tour and view from the top. The ocean views are magnificent and well worth the money. Also, when you get to the top of the lighthouse, you must go through a narrow and very short door to enter the viewing deck, and this portal may be difficult for some.
With its interesting history and beautiful location, you will easily see why Edgartown lighthouse is a great stop for your next Martha’s Vineyard adventure.
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