St Simons Lighthouse Museum & Climb Guide

Rising above the shoreline of St. Simons Island, the historic St. Simons Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable landmarks on Georgia’s coast. Visitors from around the world come to explore the lighthouse museum, climb the historic tower, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Golden Isles. Whether you love history, scenic views, or unique coastal attractions, visiting the lighthouse is one of the best experiences on the island.

The History of the St. Simons Lighthouse

The current lighthouse tower was built in 1872 after the original lighthouse was destroyed during the American Civil War. As Union troops advanced along the coast in 1861, Confederate forces destroyed the earlier tower to prevent it from helping enemy ships navigate the shoreline. After the war, a new lighthouse was constructed to guide ships safely through the busy shipping routes along the Georgia coast. The tower stands 104 feet tall and has been an important navigational aid for more than a century. Today, the lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation while also serving as a museum operated by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society.

Inside the Lighthouse Museum

Before climbing the tower, visitors can explore the museum located inside the historic Keeper’s Dwelling next to the lighthouse. The museum features exhibits that tell the story of lighthouse keepers, maritime navigation, and the coastal history of the Golden Isles. Guests can see:

• Historic artifacts from the lighthouse
•  Exhibits about lighthouse keepers and their daily lives
•  Interactive displays about maritime navigation
• Period furnishings that recreate life in the keeper’s home

These exhibits give visitors a glimpse into what life was like for the families who once maintained the light.

Climbing the Lighthouse Tower

One of the highlights of visiting the St. Simons Lighthouse is climbing to the top. The tower contains 129 steps leading to the observation gallery. Along the climb, small windows offer glimpses of the island and ocean as you spiral upward. At the top, visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views that include:

• The Atlantic Ocean
• St. Simons Island Pier
• Jekyll Island in the distance
• The surrounding marshes and waterways

On clear days, the views stretch for miles across Georgia’s beautiful coastline.

Visiting the Lighthouse Grounds

Even if you choose not to climb the tower, the lighthouse grounds are worth exploring. Located beside the pier in the charming Pier Village area, the surrounding park offers shaded areas, benches, and beautiful photo spots. Visitors often spend time walking along the waterfront, watching ships pass by, or relaxing under the island’s famous live oak trees. The nearby Neptune Park is also a great stop for families with playgrounds, picnic areas, and open green space.

Visitor Information

Climb Height
129 Steps

Location
610 Beachview Drive
St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Hours of Operation 

Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Last tickets are sold at 4:30 p.m. each day

Admission

$12 for Adults
$6 for Ages 6-12
$2 Military discount with ID
Children under six and Society members are admitted free of charge.

For more information click here.