11 New England Lighthouses You’ve Probably Never Seen

New England is known for its iconic lighthouses, but not all of them make it to the top of tourist lists. While many people flock to the popular spots, there are lesser-known gems along the coast that offer just as much history, charm, and scenic beauty—often with fewer crowds. In this post, we’ll take you on a tour of New England lighthouses you’ve probably never seen, showcasing hidden treasures that are waiting to be explored.

Race Point Lighthouse

Race Point Lighthouse, located along the northern coast of Cape Cod in Provincetown, Massachusetts, has been guiding ships since 1816. This Cape Cod lighthouse is accessible by a hiking trail or by car (off-roading in the sand). Visitors can explore its grounds year round or enjoy seasonal tours. It remains an active navigation aid, offering sweeping views of the surrounding beaches and dunes.

Five Mile Point Light

Five Mile Point Light, located in New Haven, Connecticut, marks the entrance to New Haven Harbor. The lighthouse was first constructed in 1847 and remains an active aid to navigation. It is situated on the grounds of Lighthouse Point Park, which offers public access and views of the surrounding area.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

While most people visit Portland Head Light during their visits to Portland, Maine, they often miss this cute little lighthouse. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is located at the entrance to Portland Harbor in South Portland, Maine. Built in 1897, it sits on a granite ledge and can be reached by a causeway from the shore. The lighthouse is still in operation it can be viewed from the nearby park and waterfront area.

Fayerweather Island Light

Fayerweather Island Light, located in Bridgeport, Connecticut, was first established in 1808 to mark the entrance to Bridgeport Harbor. The current 47 foot tall lighthouse was built in 1823. The lighthouse sits on a small island just offshore, accessible by walking the breakwater.

Rose Island Lighthouse

Rose Island Light, located in Newport, Rhode Island, was first established in 1870 to guide ships through Narragansett Bay. The lighthouse is situated on Rose Island, which is only accessible by boat. Today, the light is maintained as a museum and offers opportunities for tours and overnight stays.

Portsmouth Harbor Light

Portsmouth Harbor Light, located in New Castle, New Hampshire, was established in 1771 to guide vessels entering Portsmouth Harbor. The current tower was built in 1878. It’s not currently open to the public, but it can be viewed from New Castle Beach.

Avery Point Lighthouse

Avery Point Lighthouse, located in Groton, Connecticut, was built in 1943 to help guide ships entering the Thames River. The lighthouse is situated on UConn’s Avery Point campus, near the southeastern tip of Avery Point. It is a small, inactive light, but the site offers scenic views of Long Island Sound and is accessible to the public.

Southeast Lighthouse

Southeast Lighthouse on Block Island, Rhode Island, is said to be a haunted New England lighthouse. It is believed that a former lighthouse keeper’s wife haunts this beautiful lighthouse. This lighthouse was built in 1874 and is open for tours seasonally.

Ned’s Point Lighthouse

Ned’s Point Lighthouse is located in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, at the entrance to Mattapoisett Harbor. The lighthouse was first built in 1838 and has been rebuilt several times over the years. It is an active aid to navigation and is situated on a small peninsula, offering views of the harbor and Buzzards Bay.

Lobster Point Lighthouse

This lighthouse was originally built in 1948. It’s located at a picturesque spot along the paved Marginal Way walking path in Ogunquit, Maine. There is street parking near this cute little lighthouse.

Dutch Island Lighthouse

Dutch Island Lighthouse is located on Dutch Island in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. The lighthouse was first constructed in 1827 to help guide ships through the bay’s busy waters. The best spot to view this lighthouse from land is from Fort Getty State Park. If you view it from Jamestown, be sure to visit Beavertail State Park after to see Beavertail Lighthouse.

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