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Nobska Lighthouse – A Must-See Cape Cod Gem
📍 Location & Accessibility Nobska Lighthouse is perched atop a bluff in Woods Hole, Falmouth, offering one of the most breathtaking views of Vineyard Sound and the Elizabeth Islands. It’s easily accessible by car, with a small parking area nearby. While limited, the lot turns over quickly, and roadside parking is also available.
🏞️ Scenic Views The panoramic vistas are stunning—especially at sunrise or sunset. You can see Martha’s Vineyard, the ferries passing through the Sound, and a dramatic meeting of sea and sky. It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful place to sit, reflect, and take in the coastal beauty of Cape Cod.
🕰️ Historical Significance Originally built in 1876, Nobska Light has rich maritime history and served as a key navigational point for sailors around the Cape. The site is well-maintained, and the Friends of Nobska Light have done an amazing job preserving its legacy. The lighthouse structure itself—white with a black lantern—is classic New England.
🧭 Guided Tours (When Available) Tours inside the lighthouse are occasionally offered by the non-profit organization managing the property. If you get a chance to go inside, the spiral staircase and the lantern room offer a deeper appreciation for the role this lighthouse played in maritime history.
📸 Great for Families & Visitors Nobska is kid-friendly and an excellent stop for families looking for a quick but meaningful activity. Whether you're touring Cape Cod or doing a day trip from Boston, it’s a worthy detour. Picnicking on the grassy knoll nearby is a simple joy.
💬 Final Thoughts Nobska Lighthouse isn’t just a beautiful photo op—it's a serene, historic landmark that captures the spirit of Cape Cod. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just passing through,...
Read moreI've been to dozens of lighthouses and Nobska Point rivals them all for its own appearance, that it's free and that there's such a tremendous view from here.
The lighthouse protects ships in Vineyard Sound, the tidal strait that separates the southwestern coast of Cape Cod from the northern shores of Martha’s Vineyard. From here, you can watch the many ferries making their way from Woods Hole to the islands.
The light station was established in 1828, with the tower protruding above the keeper's house, and was replaced in 1876 by the current 42 foot tall iron tower. The light station includes four buildings: the tower, the keeper's house, a radio beacon house, and a small oil house. The keeper's house is open for tours. I do not believe that the lighthouse is open, but you can still walk the...
Read moreFantastic New England lighthouse to visit. It sits literally right on the side of the road, so it is easy to get to. There are a few parking spaces right at the light (perhaps room for 6 or 7cars), but you can park just before the light, where there is beach access and walk a short way to it. The grounds of the light itself are open, we are here in off season (during New Year week)) and were able to get up close, even though you cannot access the house. The view is spectacular and there is a trail to the beach directly across from the light. Well worth your time whether you are a lighthouse lover or just seeing the local sights. The town of Woods Hole is where you go, just near the ferry dock for Martha's Vineyard...
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