The Montauk Point Lighthouse stands proudly 137 steps above the Atlantic Ocean at Long Island’s easternmost point. On a clear day, 360-degree views look over the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island Sound, while the light flashes a distance of 19 nautical miles every five seconds. Its rich history is documented in the adjoining museum with eight rooms of artifacts.
Commissioned by America’s first president, George Washington, in 1792 and completed in just five months in 1796, the Lighthouse was New York State’s first and is now the fourth-oldest in the country. The museum includes 18th-century documents signed by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, as well as artifacts, whaling gear, and more. Plus, guests can climb the six-story, 110-and-a-half foot tower and soak up the views.
Initially, civilians tended to the Lighthouse until the Coast Guard took it over in 1939. In 1987, the Montauk Historical Society began leasing the property before eventually buying it in 1996. In 2012, the Lighthouse became a National Historic Landmark (in 2023, Time Magazine listed it as one of the 100 must-see landmarks in the U.S.).
Lighthouse keeper and president of the Montauk Point Lighthouse, Joe Gaviola, lives in a two-bedroom apartment—outfitted with original artifacts—on the museum’s second floor. Also on the property, a virtual aquarium called Montauk Oceans Institute makes waves. When guests approach the display, 18 species of sea creatures react.
While the Montauk Point Lighthouse is certainly a must-see any day on the East End, there are two special events taking place this summer: Comedian Kevin Hart performed on Saturday, July 12, and singer Norah Jones will perform on Saturday, August 2.
