Unearth The Voyage
Ever dreamed of what it might be like to live as a lighthouse keeper? Now you can experience that unique lifestyle firsthand by staying overnight in historic lighthouse keepers’ quarters. These maritime treasures have been lovingly restored and transformed into one-of-a-kind accommodations where you can fall asleep to the sound of waves while imagining the lives of those who once kept the lights burning to guide ships safely home.
1. East Brother Light Station (San Francisco Bay, California, USA)
Victorian elegance meets maritime history at this 1873 light station perched on a tiny islet between San Francisco and San Pablo Bays. The beautifully preserved keeper’s quarters transport guests to a bygone era while offering modern comforts.
Your overnight package includes a boat ride from Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor, a gourmet dinner with wine, and a fascinating tour of the lighthouse’s mechanical room. Wake up to freshly prepared breakfast and breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.
The lighthouse still operates as an important navigational aid, making this a truly authentic experience.
2. Seguin Island Light Station (near Popham Beach, Maine, USA)
Maine’s maritime heritage comes alive at this legendary lighthouse perched dramatically on a hilltop two miles offshore. The second-oldest lighthouse in Maine (established 1795) offers rustic accommodations exclusively for members of Friends of Seguin Island.
Adventurous souls can even pitch tents on the grounds beneath the watchful eye of the beacon. Getting there is half the adventure—arrange transport with the Friends organization or book a private charter during the summer season.
Hiking trails crisscross the 64-acre island, leading to spectacular ocean vistas and hidden coves worth exploring during your stay.
3. Little River Light Station (Cutler, Maine, USA)
Rugged coastal beauty surrounds this 1888 keeper’s house positioned strategically at the mouth of Cutler Harbor. The American Lighthouse Foundation has lovingly restored this maritime treasure, creating comfortable guest quarters without sacrificing historical authenticity.
Accessible only by boat, the island’s isolation offers a rare opportunity to experience life as keepers once did. Stunning views of the harbor and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretch out before you from every window.
Guests particularly love watching the sunrise from the east-facing bedroom windows—the same view that greeted generations of dedicated lighthouse keepers each morning.
4. Burnt Coat Harbor Light – Keeper’s House Apartment (Swan’s Island, Maine, USA)
Island life slows to a perfect pace at this charming upstairs keeper’s apartment available for weekly rentals from June through October. The working lighthouse continues its vigilant watch over Burnt Coat Harbor while guests enjoy the serenity of Swan’s Island.
Your maritime adventure begins with a ferry ride from Bass Harbor to the island. The Friends of the Swan’s Island Lighthouse oversee both restoration and rentals, ensuring an authentic yet comfortable experience.
Stunning sunsets, abundant wildlife, and starry nights await visitors to this remote outpost where time seems to stand still.
5. Rose Island Lighthouse (Newport, Rhode Island, USA)
Isolation and history blend perfectly at this 1870 keeper’s house nestled on its own island in Narragansett Bay. The journey begins with a scenic 15-minute ferry ride from Fort Adams, setting the stage for your maritime adventure.
Choose between two distinct experiences: book a cozy room with period furnishings for a night or two, or embrace the full maritime lifestyle as “Keeper for a Week.” The latter option lets you actually help maintain this functioning lighthouse!
Solar panels and rainwater collection systems keep this historic gem environmentally friendly while preserving its authentic character.
6. Point Robinson Light Station – Keepers’ Quarters A & B (Vashon–Maury Island, Washington, USA)
Pacific Northwest maritime charm abounds at these twin early-1900s keeper homes situated on picturesque Vashon Island. Both residences have been meticulously restored to their period glory while incorporating subtle modern amenities for guest comfort.
The 1914 lighthouse remains active, adding authenticity to your stay as its beam sweeps across Puget Sound each night. Reaching this hidden gem requires a short ferry ride from the Seattle area to Vashon Island.
Beach walks reveal stunning views of Mount Rainier on clear days, while the expansive lawn provides perfect picnic spots for watching passing ships.
7. Two Harbors Lighthouse B&B (Lake Superior, Minnesota, USA)
Freshwater maritime history takes center stage at Minnesota’s oldest operating lighthouse, first illuminated in 1892. Unlike many lighthouse accommodations, this historic keeper’s quarters sits conveniently within the small city of Two Harbors, making it easily accessible while maintaining its maritime charm.
The stone lighthouse tower rises dramatically from the keeper’s house, creating an unforgettable silhouette against Lake Superior sunsets. Rooms feature period furnishings and nautical touches that honor the building’s heritage.
Guests particularly enjoy watching massive ore boats navigate the harbor entrance—the same vessels this lighthouse was built to guide.
8. Saugerties Lighthouse B&B (Hudson River, New York, USA)
Adventure begins before you even arrive at this 1869 lighthouse, as guests must navigate a half-mile tidal trail or arrange boat transportation to reach this unique Hudson River outpost. The red brick structure stands proudly on its own shoal, surrounded by water at high tide.
The intimate lightkeeper’s dwelling houses just two guest rooms with a shared bath, creating an exclusive experience available Thursday through Sunday nights year-round. Wood stoves provide cozy warmth during winter stays.
Morning brings spectacular river views from the lighthouse deck, where you can watch birds fishing in the shallows just as generations of keepers once did.
