Montauk Point Lighthouse
A lighthouse of 1796 at the eastern tip of Long Island, authorised by Washington and now much closer to the sea.
Updated 20 October 2026
George Washington authorised the light in 1792 and it was finished in 1796, the first lighthouse built in New York State. It was set about ninety metres back from the edge; erosion has taken most of that, and a seawall, then terraces and a stone revetment finished in 1998, now keep the tower from going into the sea - the work is ongoing and visible. You can climb the tower, and the museum in the keeper's quarters covers the light, the erosion fight and the wrecks off the point. The water below is where Long Island Sound meets the Atlantic and the rips are strong. Seals haul out on the rocks in winter.
What's there
- A tower finished in 1796 - the first lighthouse in New York State.
- Terracing against erosion - a seawall, terraces and a stone revetment.
- A climbable tower and museum - in the keeper's quarters.
- Seals on the rocks - in the winter months.
When to go
May to October for full opening; winter for seals. Two hours.
What to expect
It is the far end of Long Island - traffic in summer is heavy and slow. The tower has steep narrow stairs. Winter hours are very limited. The point is exposed and windy.
Nearby
Montauk village is west; Camp Hero is adjacent.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q6904488, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Montauk Point Lighthouse
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
