About
It's next to impossible to miss seeing the 104-foot white lighthouse when you arrive on St. Simons Island. Now you can have a hands-on experience exploring the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.
This landmark draws history buffs and vacationers with its unique story. The tale begins in 1810, when James Gould built an octagonal tabby lighthouse. This material consists of a mix of oyster shells, lime, sand, and water. Gould's tower stood seventy-five feet high and marked a new era in safe navigation along the Atlantic.
When the Civil War erupted, Confederate troops destroyed the original lighthouse so Union forces couldn't use it as a guide. Years later, in 1872, a new lighthouse rose from those ruins.
Orlando M. Poe, a respected engineer and Union Army general, designed the new 104-foot brick tower that now stands beside its Victorian-era keeper's house. When you visit, you'll get to explore this dwelling and learn about the everyday routines of these keepers.
The lens is a marvel of 19th-century craftsmanship. Made in France, this third-order Fresnel lens casts its beam twenty-three miles into the ocean. Today, it continues to guide ships along the coastline.
The Coastal Georgia Historical Society maintains the site, ensuring the tower and the Keeper's Dwelling are well-preserved. They also manage the World War II Home Front Museum, which is a short drive away, making it easy to visit two attractions in a day.
Visiting this landmark offers an immersive deep dive into history in the Golden Isles.
St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The Keeper's Dwelling showcases rooms filled with furniture and objects from the late 1800s. The Coastal Georgia Historical Society studied old photographs and written accounts to bring Head Keeper James B. Gould's home back to life. You'll learn how the keepers lived, what they did, and how they defended the coast during World War II when U-boats prowled offshore.
The A.W. Jones Heritage Center is where you'll purchase your tickets, but it is also home to a gift shop. You'll find souvenirs, memorabilia, and gifts to commemorate your visit. Take time to visit the Stembler Theater to watch the short video, "The Light and Life of a Lighthouse." This informative presentation is about the history of the St. Simons Lighthouse.
While the ground-level museum is a treasure trove of discovery, reaching the lighthouse's observation deck takes some work. Plan on climbing 129 cast-iron spiral stairs to reach this platform. But for those that persevere, they're rewarded with panoramic views of St. Simons Island and the endless blue of the Atlantic.
A fascinating fact is that each lighthouse has its own "signature" flash, helping sailors know precisely where they are at night. The St. Simons Island Lighthouse's identifying features are a steady white light and a bright flash every 60 seconds.
Additionally, the lens spins smoothly, casting its sweeping beam for miles. You'll learn at the museum how the careful design of the lens is paramount for keeping mariners safe at sea.
Because the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum is close to other landmarks and attractions, planning an itinerary is easy. For instance, continue learning about Georgian history at the Fort Frederica National Monument, or walk over to nearby St. Simons Island Pier to fish. East Beach is accessible as well, allowing you to combine time near the surf with views from the lighthouse. Afterward, refuel at nearby restaurants like Southern Soul Barbeque. With so much to see and do, your biggest challenge will be deciding where to start!
Visiting St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum adds meaning to your Golden Isles getaway. The working lens, the well-kept keeper's home, and the sweeping ocean views connect you with Georgia's coastal heritage.
Local Tips
- Climb the tower early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
- Purchase a combo ticket if you plan to visit the World War II Home Front Museum.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes to climb the spiral stairs.
- Check the website for upcoming events and lectures.
