Lighthouses have long been guardians of America’s coasts, guiding sailors through storms and fog while becoming timeless symbols of seaside life. Today, these historic towers are some of the most photogenic landmarks you can visit, often perched on dramatic cliffs or tucked into quiet harbors. From rugged New England shores to the Pacific’s golden coastline, the 12 Most Photogenic Lighthouses in the U.S. offer travelers a chance to step into living history while snapping postcard-worthy shots.
Portland Head Light, Maine
Standing tall since 1791 in Cape Elizabeth, Portland Head Light is one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S. and arguably the most photographed. Overlooking the wild Atlantic from Fort Williams Park, its white tower contrasts perfectly with Maine’s rocky coastline. Visit during sunrise for glowing skies, or in winter when waves crash against the cliffs, making every photo dramatic. If you’re already exploring New England, pair your visit with a fall foliage trip — we’ve listed some of the best U.S. cities for fall colors.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, North Carolina
Famous for its black-and-white spiral stripes, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on the Outer Banks has been saving ships from the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” since 1870. At 210 feet tall, it’s the tallest brick lighthouse in the country. The sweeping dunes and ocean backdrop create a cinematic setting, especially if you climb to the top for panoramic views. Its relocation in 1999 to protect it from erosion only adds to the fascinating story you capture through your lens.
Pigeon Point Lighthouse, California
Perched along Highway 1 near Pescadero, Pigeon Point Lighthouse dates back to 1872 and still stands as one of the tallest on the West Coast. Its dramatic cliffside perch makes it a must-stop for photographers traveling the Pacific Coast Highway. Sunset silhouettes here are unforgettable, with waves crashing at the base and seabirds circling the light. If you’re road-tripping the Pacific, you’ll love our guide to iconic U.S. road trips.
Bodie Island Lighthouse, North Carolina
Nestled on Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Bodie Island Lighthouse boasts bold black-and-white bands and has been a navigational guide since 1872. The wooden boardwalk leading to the tower creates a perfect composition for photographers. Spring and summer bring wildflowers around the marshland, making the view even more colorful. Its peaceful setting also means fewer crowds, letting you capture uninterrupted coastal beauty.
Bass Harbor Head Light, Maine
Located on Mount Desert Island within Acadia National Park, Bass Harbor Head Light sits dramatically on granite ledges. Built in 1858, this lighthouse is one of Maine’s most iconic photo stops, especially during golden hour when the tower glows against the pink skies. The surrounding park trails also offer unique vantage points for different angles. If you’re exploring Maine’s coast, don’t miss our roundup of breathtaking U.S. islands.
Point Reyes Lighthouse, California
Just north of San Francisco, the Point Reyes Lighthouse clings to a cliff battered by Pacific winds. Since 1870, it has guarded one of America’s foggiest and windiest coasts. The descent down the steep stairway provides sweeping ocean views, and in winter, you may even spot migrating whales while lining up your shot. For more California inspiration, see our guide to spectacular U.S. desert destinations.
Split Rock Lighthouse, Minnesota
Overlooking Lake Superior from a 130-foot cliff, Split Rock Lighthouse has been a Midwest icon since 1910. Known for its picturesque silhouette against dramatic lake horizons, it’s especially photogenic in autumn when fall colors surround the shoreline. Winter ice formations along the coast give it an entirely different, yet equally magical, look. You’ll find it pairs well with exploring some of the most beautiful U.S. lakes.
St. Augustine Lighthouse, Florida
A black-and-white striped beauty built in 1874, the St. Augustine Lighthouse stands proudly as a reminder of Florida’s oldest city’s maritime history. Its red lantern top pops brilliantly against the blue Atlantic skies, making it a striking subject for photography. Visitors can climb 219 steps for sweeping coastal views, rewarding the effort with shots that stretch from the ocean to the historic town. For more Florida ideas, check our guide on things to do in Miami.
Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon
Towering above the rugged Oregon Coast, Heceta Head Lighthouse has been shining since 1894. Its setting on a cliff near Florence provides one of the most dramatic lighthouse views on the Pacific Northwest shoreline. The keeper’s house, now a charming B&B, adds an extra layer of character to photos. Fog rolling in off the ocean often makes the scene even more cinematic.
West Quoddy Head Light, Maine
Painted with bold red-and-white candy stripes, West Quoddy Head Light is impossible to miss along Maine’s easternmost point. Since 1808, it has marked the U.S.’s closest spot to Europe, making it both historically and geographically unique. Sunrise shots here are legendary, as this is the first place in the U.S. to greet the morning sun. It’s a great stop if you’re already visiting historic American cities.
Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon
Built in 1873 near Newport, Yaquina Head Lighthouse is Oregon’s tallest at 93 feet. Its sweeping views of tide pools, rocky cliffs, and sea lions make it a haven for photographers. On clear days, the Pacific sparkles around its white tower, creating postcard-perfect images. In winter, dramatic storms create a wild backdrop for more moody coastal photography.
Diamond Head Lighthouse, Hawaii
Perched on the slopes of Honolulu’s iconic Diamond Head crater, this lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1899. Unlike most lighthouses, it combines tropical palms and turquoise waters into every photo. A hike up Diamond Head’s crater provides one of the most stunning vantage points over the red-roofed tower and Waikiki’s shoreline. It’s a unique blend of Hawaiian scenery and maritime history that looks spectacular at any time of day.
