Lighthouses of Lake Erie

What Makes Lake Erie’s Lighthouses so Special?

The lighthouses of Lake Erie are icons of the region, standing tall and proud as beacons of safety for ships navigating the lake’s waters. Built-in the 19th and early 20th centuries, these lighthouses have weathered countless storms and guided mariners for generations. What makes them so special?

Each lighthouse has its own unique story and design. From their remote island locations to their striking architecture, these historic landmarks are a sight to see. Many still use their original Fresnel lenses to cast a brilliant glow visible for miles. And they offer unbeatable views of one of the world’s most amazing freshwater resources. A lot of the lighthouses across Lake Erie are now historical monuments. Some are even owned by the State Parks.

Beyond their maritime heritage, Lake Erie’s lighthouses have become cherished landmarks for locals and tourists alike. They’re perfect destinations for day trips, hiking, sightseeing, and disconnecting from the hustle of modern life. Let’s explore 10 of the most incredible lighthouses gracing the shores and islands of Lake Erie.

Top 10 Lighthouses of Lake Erie

1. Marblehead Lighthouse

Oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes (since 1822)
Scenic location on the Marblehead Peninsula in northern Ohio
65 feet tall with a striking stone tower and dwelling
Original Fresnel lens still used, visible up to 19 miles away

2. South Bass Island Lighthouse

Sits on South Bass Island in the Lake Erie Islands chain
60 feet tall with a black iron tower and white dwelling
Built-in 1897, automated in 1962
Surrounded by beautiful parks and vineyards

3. West Sister Island Lighthouse

A remote location on tiny West Sister Island, only accessible by boat
53 feet tall with a tapered square tower made of limestone
Originally built in 1848, the current tower dates to 1858
Scenic hiking trails and wildlife viewing on the island

4. Presque Isle Lighthouse

In operation since 1873 at Presque Isle State Park in Erie, PA
57 feet tall with a hexagonal wooden tower
Original 3rd order Fresnel lens still in use
Climb up for panoramic views of Lake Erie

5. Ashtabula Harbor Lighthouse

Located at the entrance to the Ashtabula River in northeast Ohio
Twin 48-foot towers built in 1905 of steel and cast iron
Recently renovated with all-new masonry and metalwork
See it on a hike through Walnut Beach Park

6. Port Clinton Lighthouse

Decommissioned lighthouse located in Port Clinton, Ohio
60 feet tall with octagonal sandstone tower
Operating between 1833-1952, now a museum
Sweeping lake views and nearby beaches

7. Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse

Historic lighthouse marking the entrance to Ohio’s Fairport Harbor
42-foot tower with a unique pyramidal shape
Built-in 1925, constructed of steel plates and cast iron
Take a stroll along lakefront walkways to see it up close

8. Gibraltar Island Lighthouse

Sits on remote Gibraltar Island, part of the Put-in-Bay island chain
Square limestone tower dating back to 1833
Recently restored and open for tours during summer
Peaceful nature trails and sandy beaches on the island

9. Cleveland East Pierhead Lighthouse

One of Cleveland’s iconic lakefront landmarks
Twin square towers built in 1911 of reinforced concrete
Eye-catching green color with unique arched windows
Best seen on a drive or walk along Lakeshore Blvd

10. Buffalo Main Lighthouse

Historic lighthouse still in operation guarding Buffalo Harbor
Stone Tower was constructed in 1833 and still uses the original lens
67 feet tall with a dwelling attached
Picturesque lakefront location with city skyline views

Tips for Visiting the Lighthouses of Lake Erie

Planning is key for touring and photographing Lake Erie’s incredible collection of historic lighthouses. Some lighthouses cannot be accessed from land. You will need a boat to view some of the lighthouses up close. Some fishing guides on Lake Erie offer boat tours. These boat tours often frequent the lighthouses mentioned above.