Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

4931 South Peninsula Drive Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

Hours

Open daily 10 a.m.  Summer hours through 9 p.m., Regular hours till 6 p.m. Last admission sold one hour prior to closing.

Cost

Here are the current costs to visit the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum:

  • Adults (12 years and older): $6.95
  • Children (3-11 years): $1.95
  • Infants (2 and under): Free
  • Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

About

On your Florida getaway, visit a landmark where history illuminates the present, and the views stretch as far as the eye can see. Welcome to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum.

This majestic beacon towers above the ocean and has stood as a sentinel since 1887. It is the tallest in Florida and one of the most immaculately preserved in the nation, making it a National Historic Landmark.

Visiting this lighthouse offers more than just a panoramic view of the Atlantic. It's a journey through the storied past of maritime navigation and coastal communities.

The iconic lighthouse marks the careful navigation of ships making their passage along the treacherous Florida coast. With a reach that extends over 17 miles out to sea, the lighthouse was, and still is, a pivotal point for mariners seeking guidance to safe harbor.

Exploring the museum gives visitors an exceptional insight into the life of lightkeepers. Guests can peruse curated exhibits showcasing the authentic lenses and tools of the "keepers of the light."

Additionally, the landmark is close to Lighthouse Point Park and the Marine Science Center, making for a delightful day of exploration in NSB.

Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features

Delving further into the wonders of this attraction, New Smyrna Beach visitors will find the lens exhibit particularly mesmerizing. With its colorful rings, the Fresnel lens is a work of art and a marvel of 19th-century innovation. Experiencing these lenses is like gazing through windows of history marked by the darkest nights and fiercest storms.

The lighthouse is a beacon for educational engagement with various programs to enlighten visitors of all ages. Whether a deep dive into the science of light and optics or a hands-on history lesson on maritime signal flags, the lighthouse connects the past to the present in interactive and captivating ways.

Its red brick facade reaches 175 feet skyward and features a 203-step spiral staircase to a rewarding, bird's eye vantage point. While the climb may be challenging, the rewards are breathtaking and worth the effort!

A visit to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum is more than a tick on your travel itinerary; it's an immersive experience that combines breathtaking views, profound history, and educational discovery.

Whether for the brilliance of the Fresnel lens or the staggering beauty viewed from the summit, a trip to this historic lighthouse is bound to enlighten, mesmerize, and inspire your Daytona Beach visit.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum:

  • Begin on FL-44 E towards New Smyrna Beach.
  • Continue onto E 3rd Ave/A1A N and drive about 4 miles.
  • Turn left onto S Peninsula Ave and stay on for 2 miles.
  • Slight right onto S Atlantic Ave and proceed for approximately 3.5 miles.
  • Turn left onto Inlet Harbor Rd and follow the signs to the designated parking area.
  • Address: 4931 S Peninsula Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

Local Tips

  • Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy morning views.
  • Purchases at the gift shop help keep the lighthouse operational.
  • Weddings are popular at the lighthouse. Check the website for details.
  • Packed picnics are welcome; find your spot in the designated picnic area.
  • Check the website for special events like Museum at Night.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb – those 203 steps require sturdy footwear.

Location

4931 South Peninsula Drive Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

Frequently Asked Questions

Situated on Florida’s awe-inspiring Atlantic coast, Daytona Beach serves as a dynamic hub of entertainment and adventure. This city is more than just a location; it’s an immersive experience that caters to a broad spectrum of interests. Whether you’re a motorsport aficionado, a motorcycle enthusiast, or seeking an unforgettable spring break destination, Daytona Beach delivers.


The city’s annual event roster initiates with the incomparable Daytona Race Weeks. The centerpiece of this event is the globally esteemed Daytona 500, fondly referred to as “The Great American Race.” This NASCAR spectacle attracts racing enthusiasts from all corners of the world, solidifying its status as one of Daytona Beach’s most sought-after and eagerly anticipated events. The high-speed excitement that unfolds on the racetrack is an experience that is not to be missed.


Following in quick succession is the heart-pounding Daytona Speed Weeks. This multi-day motorsports event serves as a thrilling preamble to the Daytona 500 and features an array of pulse-racing races. The Clash at Daytona, the Duel at Daytona, and the NASCAR Xfinity Series opener are just a few highlights of this event, offering attendees an enticing glimpse into the exhilarating world of professional racing.


Daytona Beach isn’t solely about car racing, however. For motorcycle enthusiasts, the city proudly hosts Bike Week in February and Biketoberfest in October. These events collectively draw crowds of hundreds of thousands of bikers annually, making them some of the largest motorcycle rallies in the U.S. Showcasing the latest models and fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow bikers, these events are a paradise for every motorcycle connoisseur.

Lastly, Daytona Beach has firmly established itself as a preferred destination for Spring Breaks. With a vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, a plethora of concerts, and parties, it’s no surprise that students nationwide choose Daytona Beach for their annual Spring Break celebration.


Wrapping things up, Daytona Beach represents more than just a coastal city; it’s a vibrant community brimming with life, excitement, and adventure. Its diverse range of events and dynamic culture promise a visit you won’t soon forget!

The hard-packed white sands of Daytona Beach are historically known for welcoming the first auto and motorcycle races in 1902. Though setting land speed records on the beach is no longer possible, there are various entry points allowing visitors to drive on parts of the Daytona Beach coast. Vehicles are only allowed in designated areas, from sunrise to sunset (depending on tides), and there is a $30 daily fee per vehicle for non-Volusia County residents.

Many consider October the best time to visit Daytona Beach as the area is less crowded and the weather is better. With mild winters and great spring weather, February through April are high seasons in Daytona. Plus, the infamous Speed Week in late January or early February attracts those coming in for the Daytona 500. In addition, the summer-months from mid-June through August are busy times with many families visiting the beach.

Yes, we have some pet-friendly properties. Contact us so we can find the best place for your entire family.


Florida is famously known for its beaches, and, truth be told, the state is home to 9 out of 10 cities with the most shark attacks since 1642. While neighboring New Smyrna Beach and Daytona top that list of over 350 years, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission states you shouldn’t be worried about a shark attack. Stay alert to any warnings or announcements, and here are some shark pointers to keep in mind when hitting the Florida waves:

  • Stay in groups and don’t wander too far from shore
  • Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk or in areas with a lot of fishing
  • Limit splashing and don’t make sudden or erratic movements
  • Don’t wear shiny jewelry or enter the ocean if you have an open cut (or are bleeding at all)
  • Build sandcastles and sunbathe on land.

Welcome to Daytona Beach, Florida, where the sun shines an average of 230 days a year. If you have just one day to spend here, let’s make every sun-soaked minute count!


Start your day at sunrise with a refreshing walk along our world-famous beach. This incredible white sandy beach has been delighting visitors for over a century and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Remember, you’re walking on the same beach that made Daytona the ‘Birthplace of Speed’, where car enthusiasts set their first speed records.

After soaking up some morning sunshine, it’s time to rev up your engines at the Daytona International Speedway. This iconic race track hosts over nine major race weekends annually and is a must-visit for any sports enthusiast. Don’t miss the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, which celebrates all forms of motorsports, including stock cars, sports cars, motorcycles, drag racing, land speed records, powerboating, and aviation.


Post adrenaline rush, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at one of Daytona’s waterfront restaurants. With over 400 eateries in the city, you’re spoilt for choice. From succulent seafood caught fresh daily, to international cuisines, there’s something to satisfy every palate.


In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Daytona’s rich history and culture. Take a tour of the historic Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, Florida’s tallest lighthouse, and enjoy panoramic views of the World’s Most Famous Beach and the surrounding waterways.


As the sun sets, head to the Daytona Beach Bandshell, an oceanfront concert venue that hosts free concerts throughout the summer. Here, you can enjoy live music against the backdrop of the setting sun.


Finally, end your day with a moonlit stroll along the beach, taking in the rhythmic sounds of the waves.

More questions

More questions?

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