August 7 was National Lighthouse Day, and the perfect chance to visit one of the historic beacons that have guided ships and protected sailors along our coastline. Lighthouses are some of the most recognizable landmarks along both Florida coastlines. After visiting the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and standing at the top of that 108-foot structure looking out over the Atlantic, I couldn’t help but think about the lighthouse keepers who once stood atop those same stairs and kept the beacon burning through the years. The visitors center and museum are full of photos and stories of lighthouse keepers past and offer a glimpse into a time forgotten and a significant part of maritime history.
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse has been standing watch over Florida’s southeast coast since 1860. Designed by Lieutenant George Gordon Meade, who later commanded Union forces at
Gettysburg, it’s the oldest building in Palm Beach County. The 108-foot red brick tower was designed to help ships safely navigate the dangerous waters along the coast, and it remains one of Florida’s most recognizable historic lighthouses. Archaeological finds show that the surrounding property has signs of humans dating back around 5,000 years. Sitting atop a 48-foot sand dune surrounded by live oaks and a remarkable 99-year-old Banyan Tree, it is an incredibly photogenic spot. Cato’s Bridge sits just beyond the newly installed seawall and is a popular diving spot, and the way we found out about the lighthouse. It has 105 narrow spiral steps leading to the observation platform, and I quickly discovered that 105 steps up without air-conditioning in the August heat is not for the faint hearted, so my teenage boys naturally made it up much faster than I did. I stopped to peek out the windows along the way and to take in the view before making it all the way up. Once we reached the top we realized the climb was absolutely worth it. The view was incredible. We could see the Atlantic Ocean, Indian River, Loxahatchee River, and Jupiter Inlet. Standing up there with my boys, looking out over the water was one of those moments that makes you stop and appreciate how beautiful our state and its coastline are.
The lighthouse has a rich history. During the Civil War, the light was extinguished so Union forces couldn’t use it as a navigational aid. The lighthouse’s Fresnel lens, which could project light over 20 miles, was removed and hidden for safekeeping. In 1866, it was restored and once again began guiding ships along the coast. Today, the lighthouse is part of a 120-acre historic and natural site that includes trails and historic buildings. An admission fee of $15 for adults and $8 for children gains you access to the grounds. It was great to check this lighthouse off of our list after seeing it in photos so many times.
One thing I’ve learned from traveling all around Florida with my boys is that great adventures aren’t always the biggest ones. Sometimes it’s a stop before the beach to climb 105 stairs while listening to your teenagers complain about the heat. Then, finally standing together at the top, listening to them make endless jokes about how high up you are on an exposed platform on an old exposed building, while looking out over the water, are some of the best ones. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse gave us a little bit of everything, and while I’m pretty sure my boys would tell you the best part was beating their mom to the top and messing with her fear of heights, then getting back into the air-conditioned car, I’ll remember the moments, the view and the time together long after the summer ended.