Ready for some Pacific Northwest magic?
Washington is packed with lighthouses, and each one has its own wild backstory.
Some are perched on rocky cliffs, some are tucked into cute beach towns, and one even lets you sleep in the keeper’s cottage (seriously!).
Whether you’re looking for ocean views, interesting museums, or just need an excuse to explore, this lighthouse road trip is full of surprises.
So grab some snacks and let’s hit the road because the best kind of adventure has a beacon at the end of it.
1. North Head Lighthouse, Ilwaco
North Head Lighthouse sits on a cliff near Cape Disappointment State Park in Ilwaco and has been guiding ships since 1898 with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean below.
It’s known for its 65-foot-tall white tower, wild coastal winds that can hit 120 mph, and a short, easy trail that leads you right to the edge of the bluff.
You can tour inside the lighthouse (May-September), admire the nearby keeper’s house, and if you’re lucky, catch sight of migrating whales just offshore.
2. Grays Harbor Lighthouse, Westport
Next up is Grays Harbor Lighthouse in Westport which is the tallest lighthouse in all of Washington, standing 107 feet high with 135 steps to the top.
This one is now set a bit inland due to shifting sands, but it still shines brightly over the coast, offering views of the ocean, harbor, and surrounding forest.
There’s also a charming little museum at the base packed with interesting lighthouse facts you never knew you needed.
3. Cape Flattery Lighthouse, Neah Bay
Now let’s head north to Cape Flattery Lighthouse, perched on tiny Tatoosh Island just off the tip of the Olympic Peninsula.
You can’t walk right up to it, but the view from the mainland trail is straight-up epic.
Built in 1857, it’s one of the oldest lighthouses in Washington, standing guard where the Pacific Ocean and Strait of Juan de Fuca crash together.
The hike to the overlook is short but stunning, with boardwalks, sea stacks, and maybe even a bald eagle or two flying overhead.
4. Admiralty Head Lighthouse, Whidbey Island
Admiralty Head Lighthouse on Whidbey Island brings a different vibe with its white walls, red roof, and Spanish-style arches.
It’s located inside Fort Casey State Park, where you can explore old military bunkers, climb up the lighthouse tower, and watch ferries glide through Puget Sound.
Bonus: It’s rumored to be haunted, and the museum inside has fun, hands-on exhibits which are great for curious kids and lighthouse nerds.
5. Point No Point Lighthouse, Hansville
Don’t miss Point No Point Lighthouse in Hansville, which has the best name ever and might just be the coziest lighthouse on this whole road trip.
It’s the oldest one still operating on Puget Sound (built in 1879!), and feels a bit like a day at the beach – think driftwood, sandy shores, and some seals.
You can wander the beach, tour the keeper’s quarters, or even rent the little house on-site (yes, that’s a thing!).
6. Mukilteo Lighthouse, Mukilteo
Next up, Mukilteo Lighthouse is all about seaside nostalgia, sitting right next to the ferry dock on Mukilteo’s western edge.
Small, bright white, and topped with a red cap, it’s seriously photogenic—and yes, you can go inside and ring the original fog bell (weekends only, April–September).
There’s a waterfront park right next door that’s perfect for grabbing ice cream, watching the ferries roll in, and catching a lovely Puget Sound sunset.
7. Alki Point Lighthouse, Seattle
As we near the end, Alki Point Lighthouse in Seattle combines big-city views with salty sea air, and is just minutes from downtown.
It’s been guiding ships through Elliott Bay since 1913, and while it’s still an active Coast Guard station, you can tour it on summer weekends.
The nearby beach path is ideal for a walk or bike ride, with Mount Rainier visible on clear days and the Seattle skyline shimmering across the water.
8. Browns Point Lighthouse, Tacoma
If you’re looping back down toward Tacoma, visit Browns Point Lighthouse—a low-key gem with big Sound views and a chill, locals-only feel.
The current lighthouse is a simple white tower from the 1930s.
Even better—you can stay overnight in the beautifully restored keeper’s quarters, complete with period furnishings and gorgeous views of Puget Sound.
There’s a little park with beach access, picnic spots, and tide pools to explore, making it a sweet spot to unwind before calling your lighthouse road trip officially complete.
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