Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, or Ponce Inlet Lighthouse if you're a local, is the tallest lighthouse in Florida (175 feet tall), and it's also one of the tallest masonry lighthouses in the United States. This National Historic Landmark invites visitors of all ages to climb to the top and enjoy the scenic view from the deck. If climbing 203 stairs is not for you, visit the lighthouse keeper dwellings and other buildings that are part of the museum. Explore the coastal hammock on a nature walk and look for foxes, armadillos and gopher tortoises.
Parking at Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum
Two parking lots are accessible through the main entrance. The lower is appropriate for most vehicles and offers handicap parking. The upper lot serves as an overflow parking lot and is able to accommodate RV's and buses.
Best and Worst times to Go to Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum
Opens to the public seven days a week, usually at 10:00 A.M. Closing times are seasonal (typically around 9:00 P.M. in the summer and 6:00 P.M. otherwise). However, hours vary depending on local events, so call before you go. If you're planning to visit later in the day, remember the sale of the last tour ticket occurs about an hour or two before closing time.
Must See/Do at Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum
Climb to the top of the lighthouse and stand on the gallery deck. Peruse the maritime gift shop. Learn about the lives of the lighthouse keepers by visiting the museum buildings. See the Fresnel lens and learn how it made this lighthouse a part of cutting edge of technology back in the 1800's. Explore the nature trail before hitting the beach.
Other Places to Visit Near Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum
Visit the beach and the paved, rock Jetty that extends out into the ocean. Lighthouse Point Park is a 52 acre preserve of largely undisturbed land, making it an excellent place to spot wildlife. The Marine Science Center, with its stingray touch pool, is both fun and educational for all ages. After you work up an appetite, stop by Down the Hatch Seafood Company or Inlet Harbor Restaurant, Marina & Gift shop.
Insider Tips for Visitors to Ponce de Leon Lighthouse and Museum
There's a reason it was originally called Mosquito Inlet. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent if you plan to engage in the nature walk.
Author's bio: Edie Schmidt is a freelance writer in Central Florida, who loves sharing her favorite places with you. She invites you to view some of her work here and here.