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As a child, the sight of the St. Simons Lighthouse always filled me with a sense of wonder. For me, it was more than just a beacon guiding ships; it was a symbol of adventure, history, and cherished moments with my family.

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One of my fondest memories is visiting the lighthouse with my grandfather. A Navy veteran who served during World War II, my Pa had a deep appreciation for maritime heritage. Standing beneath the towering white structure, he would share spellbinding stories of his time at sea, regaling me with tales of epic battles, brave sailors and pilots, and the important role lighthouses played in navigation.

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My grandfather's stories breathed life into the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, transforming it from a static monument into a living testament to the bravery and resilience of those who served at sea. Every time see it, I relive those moments shared with my grandfather, which have remained etched into my memory and have fueled my lifelong love of lighthouses.

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As I reflect on those cherished moments now as an adult, I realize how the St. Simons Island Lighthouse helped shape my love for history and storytelling. So this article is not only a tribute to its rich history, architectural grandeur, and breathtaking views — it's also a personal journey, allowing me to relive those special times spent with my grandfather and to honor the legacy he instilled in me.

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So join me on a journey through time to honor the past and celebrate the present as we look at what makes the St. Simons Lighthouse such a beloved treasure on the Georgia coast.

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10 Quick Fun Facts About the St. Simons Lighthouse

St. Simons Island Lighthouse History

Architectural Details About the St. Simons Lighthouse

St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

St. Simons Lighthouse Gift Shop

St. Simons Island Lighthouse Tour

Visitor Information

St. Simons Island Lighthouse Photos

St. Simons Lighthouse Ghost

More Articles to Help You Plan Your Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

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10 Quick Fun Facts About the St. Simons Lighthouse

Before we take a deep dive into the captivating background of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, here's a quick look at some of the most compelling facts about this well-known Georgia lighthouse.

1. The original St. Simons Lighthouse was built in 1810 but later destroyed by Confederate forces to keep it out of the hands of the Union Navy.
2. The current lighthouse replaced the original one, with construction completed in 1872.
3. The Keeper’s Dwelling was built at the same time as the new lighthouse, and today serves as the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum.
4. The lighthouse stands 104 feet (32 meters) tall.
5. The width of the lighthouse measures 21 feet (6.4 meters) at the base tapering to 10 feet (3 meters) at the top.
6. There are 129 steps to reach the viewing platform at the top where breathtaking views of the Golden Isles and the Atlantic Ocean coast can be found.
7. A 3rd order Fresnel lens powers the lighthouse light.
8. Its light beam reaches 23 miles (37 kilometers) out to sea and is still actively used today as an active navigational aid for ships entering St. Simons Sound.
9. The St. Simons Lighthouse is one of only five surviving lighthouses in the state of Georgia.
10. It celebrated its 150th birthday on September 1, 2022, complete with a historical light show projected on the lighthouse's white tower to commemorate the occasion.

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From here we'll explore this iconic beacon in depth to uncover the history of the St. Simons Lighthouse and the fascinating features that have made it a cherished landmark in the Golden Isles for more than 150 years.

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St. Simons Lighthouse History

One of only five surviving Georgia lighthouses, the St. Simons Lighthouse has a long and tumultuous history.

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The Original St. Simons Lighthouse

Long before a lighthouse ever stood on the southern end of St. Simons Island, the area was known as Fort St. Simons. Constructed under the guidance of British General James Oglethorpe, this colonial stronghold served to safeguard the island's southern tip from potential Spanish incursions.

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After the decisive English victory at the Battle of Bloody Marsh, Fort St. Simons no longer needed to function as a military defense. Instead, it transitioned into Couper's Point Cotton Plantation owned by John Couper, embracing a new chapter in its storied past.

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In 1804, Congress allocated $7,000 to fund the construction of a lighthouse on St. Simons Island. And because Couper wanted a lighthouse built to aid commerce on the island, he sold four acres of his land to the government for a nominal sum of $1, cementing the foundation for the lighthouse's future establishment.

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The lighthouse project was awarded to James Gould of Massachusetts in May 1807 for a contract worth $13,775. The project encompassed not only the construction of the lighthouse but also a one-story brick house as well.

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Three years later when construction of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse reached an end in 1810, President James Madison appointed Gould as the first keeper at an annual salary of $400. Gould managed the lighthouse for 27 years with the help of trained slaves from his St. Simons cotton plantation.

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However, the original lighthouse met a tragic fate in 1861 when the local Glynn Guards Infantry Company destroyed it to prevent its use by Union forces during the Civil War.

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The New Lighthouse

Despite the setback caused by the Confederate forces' destruction of the original lighthouse to keep Union troops from occupying it, the history of the lighthouse persevered. About a decade later, the U.S. government authorized the construction of a new lighthouse and keeper's dwelling, overseen by Orlando Poe, Chief Engineer for the U.S. Lighthouse Board. The renowned Georgia architect Charles Cluskey was entrusted with the construction, although he unfortunately died a year before its completion.

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In 1872, construction of the restored lighthouse and keeper's dwelling was successfully completed, marking a significant milestone in the lighthouse's history. Further enhancements were made a few years later in 1876 with the installation of a speaking tube that enabled seamless communication between the lighthouse tower and the dwelling.

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As technology advanced, a fire-proof brick oil house was erected near the lighthouse in 1890, providing a secure storage facility for kerosene, which had replaced costly whale oil as the preferred lamp fuel. However, the shift from kerosene to electricity in 1934 rendered the need for oil storage obsolete, marking a significant transformation in the lighthouse's operations.

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Recognizing its historical significance, the Coastal Georgia Historical Society took ownership of the lighthouse in 2004 through the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

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Keeper's Dwelling

In tandem with the restoration of the lighthouse, a charming Victorian-style home was constructed as a keeper's cottage, featuring two stories and nine rooms. Serving as a residence for lighthouse keepers and their families, this exquisite Victorian house provided accommodations from 1872 until the mid-1950s.

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During this time, there were 12 head keepers of the St. Simons Light:

• James Gould – 1810
• Lachlan McIntosh – 1837
• Alexander D. McIntosh – 1852
• John F. Carmon – 1855
• Bradford B. Brunt – 1872
• Frederick Osborne – 1874
• George Asbell – 1880
• Isaac L. Peckham – 1883
• Joseph Champagne – 1892
• Carl Olaf Svendsen – 1907
• Arthur F. Hodge – 1936
• David O’Hagan – 1945

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In 1934, the kerosene oil lamps of the lighthouse underwent a conversion to electricity, and by 1953, the entire system had become fully automated, eliminating the necessity for a resident light keeper.

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Fast forward to 1971, when ownership of the Keeper's Dwelling transitioned from the federal government to Glynn County for use as a museum. And the following year, it earned a place on the esteemed National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its significant historical importance. Then in 1975 the Coastal Georgia Historical Society took charge of its restoration and has since operated the Dwelling as a museum dedicated to coastal history.

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St. Simons Lighthouse Architectural Details

The St. Simons Island Lighthouse is a beautiful and iconic structure full of noteworthy architectural details. Here are some of the most significant elements that make both the original lighthouse and its replacement so distinctive.

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The Original St. Simons Lighthouse

The octagonal tower of the first lighthouse stood 75 feet (23 meters) tall. The base of the lighthouse measured 25 feet (7.6 meters) in diameter and tapered to 10 feet (3 meters) at the top of the brick tower. While original specifications called for it to be built out of brick, tabby cement was primarily utilized instead. This mixture of oyster shells, sand, lime, and water repurposed from the ruins of Fort Frederica provided a more economical way to build the lighthouse.

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The original light source was suspended in a 10-foot-tall (3-meter-tall) iron lantern room, which historians believe was likely an oil lantern fueled by whale oil. Then in 1857, a double-convex fresnel lens took its place, which was carefully dismantled and moved to an undisclosed location prior to the lighthouse's destruction by Confederate troops in 1861. However, despite a later search by federal troops, the lens has never been recovered.

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The New St. Simons Lighthouse

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Georgia, the St. Simons Island Lighthouse stands proudly at 104 feet (32 meters) tall. Crafted from Savannah grey brick, it features a base diameter of 21 feet (6.4 meters), gradually tapering to 10 feet (3 meters) at the top of the round tower.

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Enclosed within the lighthouse is a cast iron spiral staircase, surrounded by an 8-foot-wide (2.4-meter-wide) column. This design allows space between the exterior and interior brick walls to accommodate the rotational weight system of the lens.

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At the top, the intricate iron brackets that support the gallery exhibit ornate details reminiscent of the Italianate architecture showcased in the adjacent Keeper's Dwelling. These decorative elements add a touch of charm and visual continuity between the two structures, enhancing the overall architectural appeal of the St. Simons Lighthouse site.

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A remarkable third-order Fresnel lens crafted in France has illuminated the path for mariners entering St. Simons Sound since 1872. This original 3rd order Fresnel lens is surrounded by four rotating flash panels, resulting in a distinct flash every 60 seconds — the lighthouse's iconic night signature. Initially fueled by kerosene oil, the light was converted to electricity in 1934 and later automated in the mid-1950s.

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Today, the St. Simons Lighthouse strategically stands between two range light towers to the west, safely guiding mariners into both the St. Simons Channel and St. Simons Sound.

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‍PLANNING A TRIP TO ST. SIMONS ISLAND? USE MY FAVORITE RESOURCES TO BOOK YOUR TRAVEL!

FLIGHT: Kiwi.com is the most comprehensive aggregator of all types of transportation.

RENTAL CAR: Discover Cars offers super competitive rates.

ACCOMMODATION: I highly recommend Booking.com and Hotels.com.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: SafetyWing provides amazing unique and flexible options.

TOURS & EXPERIENCES: Viator offers excellent options for unique and memorable things to do.

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St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

The St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum encompasses both the iconic lighthouse and the adjacent Keeper's Dwelling. Situated in the Pier Village at the southern end of St. Simons Island, this comprehensive museum experience offers visitors the opportunity to climb the lighthouse tower for panoramic views of the Golden Isles and to explore the Keeper's Dwelling where compelling museum exhibits await.

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Climb to the Top of the Lighthouse

Ascend the 129 steps of the 104-foot tower to witness the vast panorama of the Golden Isles and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring coastal scenery. From the exhilarating vantage point of the viewing platform, you can enjoy breathtaking views of mainland Brunswick, Jekyll Island, Sea Island, and the magnificent Sidney Lanier Bridge. This unparalleled perspective of the island is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

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However, if climbing to the top of the St. Simons Lighthouse isn't feasible, an immersive 3D virtual tour is available via the Coastal Georgia Historical Society website. Through this online experience, you can also "climb to the top" and enjoy the spectacular view from the pinnacle. What's more, you get to experience an exclusive glimpse typically hidden from regular visitors: the lens room meticulously maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard and Auxiliary, a rare treat that's not open to the public!

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Visit the Keeper's Dwelling

Adjacent to the lighthouse, the Keeper's House serves as the gateway to the museum exhibits. Step inside this beautifully preserved structure, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the dedicated lighthouse keepers and their families. Explore the carefully curated exhibits that bring the rich history of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse to life, and discover artifacts, photographs, and engaging displays that showcase the maritime heritage and the essential role of the lighthouse in guiding ships to safety.

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St. Simons Island Lighthouse Gift Shop

No visit to the lighthouse is complete without exploring the St. Simons Lighthouse Gift Shop. Located next to the museum, the gift shop is the perfect place for lighthouse enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a special memento of their time on St. Simons Island. And the best part is that 100% of gift shop proceeds go towards the preservation of St. Simons Island's valuable museums and providing essential funding for educational programs!

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For those with a passion for history, the St. Simons Lighthouse gift shop features an assortment of books, including compelling narratives on lighthouse history, maritime adventures, and local lore. And for those looking for something wearable, the gift shop offers a selection of apparel and accessories inspired by the St. Simons Lighthouse and the coastal charm of the island. So whether you're searching for a meaningful souvenir, a gift for a loved one, or a little something to remind you of your visit, this gift shop delivers a carefully curated selection of merchandise that celebrates the lighthouse's history and maritime heritage.

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The A.W. Jones Heritage Center Museum Store is open Monday – Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.

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St. Simons Lighthouse Tour

The Coastal Georgia Historical Society only offers private, guide-led tours for school groups and youth groups. However, a special discounted rate of $9 per person is available for groups of 10 or more. This self-guided St. Simons Island Lighthouse tour is offered Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 3 pm, and payment must be made in one lump sum.

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To book, submit your tour group information on the Society's website or call (912) 638-4666.

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Visitor Info

From operating hours and ticketing details to directions and accessibility information, here is all the practical information you need to plan your visit to this beloved landmark in the Golden Isles of Georgia.

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Hours of Operation

The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and gift shop are open:

• Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm
• Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm
• Last tickets sold at 4:30 pm daily

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Please note that the museum and the gift shop are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday. Additionally, the lighthouse tower occasionally closes during inclement weather.

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Admission Price

To climb to the top of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and explore its amazing museum, pricing is as follows:

• $12 for Adults
• $6 for Ages 6-12
• $2 Military discount with ID
• Free for Society members and children under six

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If interested in visiting the World War II Homefront Museum as well, you can buy combined tickets as a great way to enjoy a slight discount:

• $20 for Adults
• $10 for Ages 6-12
• $2 Military discount with ID
• Free for Society members and children under six

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Tickets can be purchased at the A.W. Jones Heritage Center and are non-refundable.

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Directions to the St. Simons Lighthouse

To get to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, you can set your navigation system to either the Lighthouse Museum or the Heritage Center. The addresses for both are as follows:

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ST. SIMONS LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM

101 12th Street

St. Simons Island, GA 31522

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A.W. JONES HERITAGE CENTER

610 Beachview Drive

St. Simons Island, GA 31522

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One note: For some reason, Google Maps lists the lighthouse's location as 500 Mallery Street, which is not correct!

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Parking

While there are no specific museum-designated parking spaces, both the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum and the A.W. Jones Heritage Center offer ample, convenient, and free public parking for visitors. You can find parking lots along Beachview Drive to the west of the Heritage Center as well as a handful of parking spaces along 12th Street in front of the lighthouse and museum.

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Accessibility

A drop-off area is available in front of the Heritage Center for visitors with limited mobility, and ADA parking is available on the west side of the Heritage Center. From there you can find an accessible pathway leading to the rear ramp of the building. Service animals are welcome inside the museum, and a wheelchair is available upon request.

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Please note, however, that only the first floor of the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum is wheelchair accessible.

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Contact Information

To book a group tour or to speak with someone directly, you can dial (912) 638-4666 or email admin@coastalgeorgiahistory.org.

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St. Simons Lighthouse Photos

As both a local and a photographer, I have explored every nook and cranny of the lighthouse grounds to find the best places to take photos of this historic landmark. Some of my favorite spots for photo ops include:

• The St. Simons pier, particularly during sunset!
• From the walking/biking path along the Atlantic Ocean where you can capture the lighthouse's Victorian gazebo and canon as well
• Along 12th Street where you can photograph the front of the museum with the United States flag
• On the beach at low tide, which offers a cool perspective looking up at the lighthouse
• Inside the patch of live oak trees located about a block to the west where you can get unique snaps of the lighthouse framed by gnarled tree limbs draped in Spanish moss!

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St. Simons Lighthouse Ghost

While the St. Simons Island Lighthouse is certainly known for its rich history and stunning views, you might be surprised to learn that it also has a reputation for paranormal activity! Although there's no concrete evidence to support such claims, tales of a ghostly presence have swirled around this iconic structure, intriguing the imaginations of locals and visitors alike.

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The Ghost of Frederick Osborne

This legend dates back to 1880 when Lighthouse Keeper Frederick Osborne met a fateful end. His assistant, John Stephens, shot and killed him, and soon after the incident reports of an otherworldly presence on St. Simons Island began to circulate.

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One notable account, published in 1908, recounted the experience of the subsequent lighthouse keeper's wife. In her husband's absence, she encountered issues with the lighthouse mechanism and in a moment of frustration, she called out to Osborne, remembering his promise to help her if ever in need.

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Astonishingly, she witnessed the distinct figure of Osborne bending over the machinery. Overwhelmed, she fainted, only to awaken and find that the light was functioning flawlessly once again.

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Legend has it that Osborne's untimely demise failed to sever his routine of overseeing the lighthouse. Numerous accounts describe sightings of his apparition within and around the tower, while many claim to have heard mysterious footsteps echoing along the old spiral staircase.

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Paranormal Activity Today

Over the years many have reported experiencing paranormal activity while visiting the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Some of the most common incidents include hearing footsteps or voices when no one else is around, seeing shadows or apparitions, feeling a cold chill, or experiencing electrical disturbances.

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Regardless of whether or not a St. Simons lighthouse ghost really exists, these stories undoubtedly add to the mystique and charm of this iconic landmark!

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Make the Most of Your Lighthouse Visit

Maximize your visit to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and the surrounding area with this collection of articles designed to enhance your Golden Isles experience. From insider tips on the best things to do to the history surrounding some of the most popular destinations in the area, here is some additional info to help you make the most of your time at the lighthouse and beyond:

• A GUIDE TO THE GOLDEN ISLES: This detailed guide to the Golden Isles uncovers the unique characteristics of the four islands and mainland city that comprise this remarkable coastal destination.
• 37 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ST. SIMONS: Featuring an array of experiences ranging from historic landmarks and picturesque beaches to breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling outdoor adventures, this is the ultimate insider's guide to exploring St. Simons Island.
• ALL ABOUT THE AVENUE OF THE OAKS: Discover the mesmerizing allure and rich historical significance of this extraordinary pathway adorned with majestic oak trees.
• DRIFTWOOD BEACH - ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW: Unveil the enchanting wonders of this Jekyll Island marvel, where weathered trees, breathtaking landscapes, and tranquil shores converge to create an unforgettable experience.
• SYDNEY LANIER BRIDGE: Learn about the history and design of the Sidney Lanier Bridge, a vital link between the Golden Isles that plays a crucial role in the economic growth and development of the region.

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‍

‍PLANNING A TRIP TO ST. SIMONS ISLAND? USE MY FAVORITE RESOURCES TO BOOK YOUR TRAVEL!

FLIGHT: Kiwi.com is the most comprehensive aggregator of all types of transportation.

RENTAL CAR: Discover Cars offers super competitive rates.

ACCOMMODATION: I highly recommend Booking.com and Hotels.com.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: SafetyWing provides amazing unique and flexible options.

TOURS & EXPERIENCES: Viator offers excellent options for unique and memorable things to do.

‍

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St. Simons Lighthouse FAQs

The St. Simons Island Lighthouse is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Golden Isles. From its hours of operation to details surrounding its history, here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about this prominent Georgia landmark.

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Is the St. Simons Island Lighthouse haunted?

From lingering tales of a ghostly former lighthouse keeper to reports of present-day paranormal encounters, the St. Simons Lighthouse continues to be shrouded in haunting lore. While numerous accounts abound, no conclusive evidence has emerged to substantiate these claims. So whether you believe in its supernatural allure or not is a decision that rests solely with you!

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What are the St. Simons Lighthouse hours?

The St. Simons Lighthouse is open to the public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday. The last tickets are sold at 4:30 pm each day.

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The lighthouse is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday, and the viewing platform occasionally closes during inclement weather.

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Where do I buy St. Simons Lighthouse tickets?

You can buy St. Simons Lighthouse tickets at the A.W. Jones Heritage Center Museum Store. The Heritage Center is located at 610 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA 31522.

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How many steps are in the St Simons Island Lighthouse?

There are 129 steps to reach the viewing platform at the top of the St. Simons Lighthouse. From there you can enjoy views of mainland Brunswick, Jekyll Island, Sea Island, and the Sidney Lanier Bridge.

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Can you go up in the St. Simons Lighthouse?

Yes, can climb to the top of the St. Simons Lighthouse. However, access is restricted during inclement weather.

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How old is the lighthouse on St. Simons Island?

The current St. Simons Lighthouse, which replaced the original after it was destroyed during the Civil War, is 151 years old. It celebrated its 150th birthday on September 1, 2022.

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Does the St. Simons Lighthouse still work?

Yes, the Saint Simons Lighthouse still works. Its light beam reaches 23 miles (37 kilometers) out to sea and is still actively used today as a navigation aid for ships entering St. Simons Sound.

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Is there a lighthouse on St. Simons Island?

Yes, the St. Simons Lighthouse is located on St. Simons Island and is a prominent landmark in the state of Georgia.

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Do you have to pay to get onto St. Simons Island?

No, you do not have to pay to get onto Saint Simons Island. There is no toll booth or entrance fee to the island, and parking is free around the island except where indicated by local businesses and private properties.

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Where is the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Inn?

The St. Simons Inn by the Lighthouse is a charming bed and breakfast located just steps from the St. Simons Lighthouse. The inn has 34 guest rooms, each uniquely decorated with antiques and period furnishings.

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One of the highlights of staying at the St. Simons Inn by the Island Lighthouse is its proximity to the lighthouse itself. From the inn, you can easily stroll across the street to the lighthouse, explore the shops and restaurants throughout the Pier Village, and wander along the beach and the St. Simons Island Pier.

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To check rates and availability, visit Expedia.com  or Hotels.com. Please note that weekend bookings require a two-night minimum and that check-in is at 4:00 pm while check-out time is 11:00 am.

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How many lighthouses are in Georgia?

Georgia has five surviving lighthouses plus one range front light. They are the St. Simons Lighthouse, Tybee Island Lighthouse, Cockspur Island Lighthouse, Sapelo Island Lighthouse, Little Cumberland Island Lighthouse, and the Range Front Light.

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St. Simons Island Lighthouse: The Wrap-Up

The St. Simons Lighthouse stands tall, embodying the essence of history, architecture, and maritime heritage. From its humble beginnings to its revered status as a beloved landmark, it has etched a lasting impression on the hearts of visitors and locals alike.

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Today, the Saint Simons Island Lighthouse continues its noble duty, guiding mariners with its unwavering beam. It serves as a timeless symbol of the determination displayed by those who once sailed these waters and reminds us of the paramount importance of preserving our cherished historical treasures.

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Whether you seek to admire its majestic architecture, revel in the breathtaking views from its observation deck, or simply soak in the nostalgic ambiance it evokes, a visit to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse promises an unforgettable experience.

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A writer and photographer, Allie Albanese is the founder and curator of Parched Around the World. Here she aims to tell stories about the intersection of food, drinks, cultures, and traditions in places near and far.

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Allie holds a Master’s degree in Journalism from American University and for more than a decade has worked as a freelance travel, food, and drinks journalist for various publications across the United States and abroad. When not out in search of the next story to tell, she calls her beloved St. Simons Island home.