An Integral part of Long Island’s imagery, 25 lighthouses line the peninsula of Long Island—10 of which are scattered across the East End. Here, we shine a light on a few of our favorite guiding historic landmarks on both the North and South forks.
Long Beach Bar “Bug” Lighthouse
Third St., Greenport
For almost a century, the Long Beach Bar “Bug” Lighthouse guided ships safely through a perilous sandbar between Orient Harbor and Gardiners Bay. The original structure got its nickname “bug” due to its spindly legs, which create the illusion of a giant water bug during high tide. Destroyed in 1963 by arsonists, the community gathered to recreate the beloved lighthouse in 1993, where it still stands today. Throughout the summer, the East End Seaport Museum’s Bug Light Cruises & Tours offer the unique chance to get an up-close look. Tours are $59 per adult and $25 per child.
Horton Point Lighthouse
3575 Lighthouse Road, Southold
There is no need for a boat to get an up-close look at this lighthouse. Commissioned by George Washington in 1790, it wasn’t built by the U.S. Lighthouse Service until 1857. The historic 58-foot structure is accessible off Lighthouse Road in Southold. The Horton Point Lighthouse is listed on both the national and state registers of historic places and is open to the public seasonally on weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. between Memorial Day and mid-September. Parking and admission are cash only, $5 per individual and $10 for families. However, do note that street parking is by Southold Town permit only.
Cedar Island Lighthouse
5 Cedar Point Road, East Hampton
In 1839, when Sag Harbor was a bustling hub for whaling and fishing, the Cedar Island Lighthouse was the guide for ships entering the harbor. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of Gardiners Bay. While the interior is not open to the public, visitors are invited to observe the exterior of the lighthouse at Cedar Point County Park.
Montauk Point Lighthouse
2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk
The fourth oldest lighthouse in the United States, the Montauk Point Lighthouse was commissioned by George Washington and built in 1792. It was one of 12 lighthouses to be named as a National Historic Landmark in 2012. In August 2023, a $44 million restoration project was completed, ensuring several more centuries of unforgettable 360-degree views over Block Island. Hours of operation vary throughout the season (April through November). General admission to see inside the Montauk Point Lighthouse is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for children under 12. An $8 parking fee is required to park in the lot across the street.
