The current 104-foot lighthouse was constructed in 1872 using bricks salvaged from the original tower destroyed by Confederate forces to prevent its use by Union troops.
The lighthouse lens is a third-order Fresnel lens that remains in service as an active aid to navigation.
The 129 steps to the top consist of 124 iron stairs and five final wooden steps.
The Keeper's Dwelling was designed by Charles Cluskey, a notable Georgia architect, and originally housed two families.
The lighthouse base is situated at a point where the St. Simons Sound meets the Atlantic Ocean, making it a critical navigation point for deep-water vessels.
The museum building features a recreation of the keepers' living quarters as they appeared in the early 20th century.
The St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum features a functioning 1872 lighthouse tower and the restored Keeper's Dwelling. Visitors can climb the 129 steps to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the Georgia coast. The museum showcases maritime history, including exhibits on the life of the lighthouse keepers and the evolution of navigational technology. It stands on the southern tip of St. Simons Island near the site of the original 1810 lighthouse, which was destroyed during the Civil War. The site is managed by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. The complex includes an oil house, a garage, and a lush garden area.
The grassy lawn in front of the lighthouse tower offers the best angle to capture the full height and architectural detail of the structure.
Climb the tower early in your visit, as the stairs can become crowded and warm in the afternoon.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the tower may close temporarily during high winds or thunderstorms.
Wear comfortable, flat shoes to safely navigate the iron spiral staircase.
Attempting the climb if you have significant mobility issues or a fear of heights, as the staircase is narrow and steep.
Refrain from touching the historic Fresnel lens exhibits and maintain a moderate pace while climbing the stairs to allow for two-way traffic.
