St. Augustine, Florida has long been known for its vibrant history and fascinating backstory. Visitors come from around the country to explore not only the beautiful surroundings but also the unique historical sites that make the city what it is today. During your stay in one of our St. Augustine oceanfront rentals, you’ll want to set aside a few hours to check out the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.
This popular St. Augustine attraction sheds a whole new light on this magnificent city and is sure to provide memories you won’t soon forget.
The History of the St. Augustine Lighthouse
To learn about the history of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, we must travel back to 1589. During this year, cartographer Giovanni Battista Boazio published a map with the first documented reference to a watchtower. The watchtower had been constructed to help the locals keep an eye on the waters and spot enemy ships attempting to take the nearby Anastasia Island.
About 200 years later, the Spanish rebuilt the watchtower with more reliable materials. Soon after, the Seven Years’ War (also called the French and Indian War) broke out, and many people who lived in St. Augustine fled. When the British arrived, they made the watchtower taller and started entertaining the idea of building a lighthouse. The St. Augustine Lighthouse was officially recognized in 1780.
The lighthouse was controlled by both the British and the Spanish at times until eventually being replaced with a new lighthouse in 1874. This is the lighthouse that is still standing and welcoming visitors today.
Exhibits to Explore
When you visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse, you’ll have much more to do than just admire the structure itself. You can first visit the Oil Room and the Keepers’ Office to see the “behind the scenes” of the daily operations of the lighthouse when it was first constructed. You’re also welcome to wander the grounds to check out the Maritime Hammock Nature Trails or bring your kids to enjoy the Eliza & Crackers Club Outdoor Exploration activities!
Be sure to make your way into the Maritime Archaeology and Education Center while you’re here. You can experience fascinating exhibits like Legends of the Light and the PGA Artifact Conservation Lab Viewing Hallway. Finally, discover the World War II-era structures on the campus, including the 1940s US Coast Guard coastal lookout dwelling and a historic building that once served as the keepers’ garage.
Your St. Augustine Vacation Rental
If you’re ready for the ultimate Florida getaway, contact Summerhouse Condos today to get started! Our team is standing by to help you book!
Hours and Pricing
The lighthouse is easily one of the most popular and affordable St. Augustine attractions. Admission costs just $14.95 for adults and $12.95 for kids and seniors. You can purchase your tickets online or at the door. Visitors are welcome to the St. Augustine Lighthouse daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
While the lighthouse is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in St. Augustine, it’s not the only option! There’s so much more to explore in this city that it would be impossible to see it all in just one day. That’s why it’s essential that you choose from only the best condo rentals in St. Augustine to enjoy during your stay. That’s where we come in!
Summerhouse Condos offers a wide range of condo rentals to groups of all sizes. You’ll enjoy amenities like high-speed internet, fully stocked kitchens, and a convenient location near the city’s most unique restaurants, shops, and more.
Book Your St. Augustine Condo Rental with Summerhouse Beach & Racquet Club
At Summerhouse Beach & Racquet Club, we make it easy to turn your dream beach vacation into a reality. Our beautifully maintained property sits on St. Augustine’s coastline, just minutes from historic sites, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions. With direct beach access, top-notch amenities, and a variety of spacious rental condos in St. Augustine, FL, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Come experience the charm of the nation’s oldest city with the convenience and relaxation of Summerhouse, your perfect coastal getaway awaits!
