Sunset at Admiralty Head
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Admiralty Head Lighthouse

4.8
·937 reviews·Coupeville, United States

Historic Spanish-style lighthouse at Fort Casey State Park, offering free admission and stunning Puget Sound views from its tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Sunset at Admiralty Head

Admiralty Head Lighthouse

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Spanish-style lighthouse at Fort Casey State Park, offering free admission and stunning Puget Sound views from its tower.

4.8
(937 reviews)

"A must-see historical landmark with amazing views, even after hours you can stroll the grounds and enjoy the experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tour Hours First

Volunteer tours are limited; check times before you go to climb the tower! :ticket:

Ladder to the Top!

The final ascent is a ladder. Babies/toddlers may not be allowed. :baby:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Admiralty Head Lighthouse Tower

Admiralty Head Lighthouse Tower

Fort Casey State Park

Climb the historic tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Puget Sound and surrounding islands.

Fort Casey State Park Grounds

Fort Casey State Park Grounds

Surrounding the lighthouse

Explore the expansive park, historic gun batteries, and enjoy the scenic coastal landscape.

Gift Shop & Museum

Gift Shop & Museum

Base of the lighthouse

Discover souvenirs and learn about the lighthouse's rich history through exhibits.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Tours

Volunteer-led tours offer access to the lighthouse tower, but hours are limited and can vary. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to ensure you can join a tour before they close for the day. Check the schedule beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Accessibility & Little Explorers

While the grounds are accessible, climbing the lighthouse tower involves stairs and a final ladder section. Staff may not permit carrying babies or toddlers due to safety concerns on the ladder. Plan accordingly for younger children or those with mobility challenges.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, good light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fort Casey State Park is a fun place to explore! Check out my last two posts for more information. #fortcaseystatepark #fortcasey #washingtonstateparks @wastatepks #admiraltyheadlighthouse @admiraltyheadlighthouse #pnwexplored #pnw #pacficnorthwest #whidbeyisland #washingtonstate #pnwkids #pnwmoms #weekendgetaway #pnwsunshine #gunbattery #wwi #wwii #militaryhistory #deer #exploringwithkids #e...
growing_up_pnw
8 likes • 751 views

Check Tour Hours First

Volunteer tours are limited; check times before you go to climb the tower! :ticket:

Ladder to the Top!

The final ascent is a ladder. Babies/toddlers may not be allowed. :baby:

I’m not one to go on adventures in the rain, but for some reason, my day trip to Admiralty Head Lighthouse worked out. While the rain didn’t allow me to full do what I wanted to do, I think it added a bit of drama to my adventure and I didn’t totally hate it 😂 Also, the lighthouse?! Beautiful. I Think I need to make a bucket list of seeing all the WA state lighthouses. Anyone seen them all? 😃 #...
amandalynae
8 likes • 230 views
📍Admiralty Head Lighthouse Fort Casey State Park, WA #admiraltyheadlighthouse #fortcasey #fortcaseystatepark #fortcaseylighthouse #fortcaseywashington #widbey #widbeyisland #lighthouse #lighthouses #lighthousewashington #placetovisit #weekendgateaway #weekendadventures
tennick23
15 likes • 315 views

Grounds are Always Open

Even if tours are closed, enjoy the lighthouse exterior & park views. :camerawithflash:

Souvenir Stop

Visit the gift shop for unique lighthouse-themed items. :gift:

A deer grazing in front of the Admiralty Head lighthouse in Coupeville,WA . . . #destinationwa #seattlesites #pnwp #yourtake #kiro7seattle #komo4 #q13fox #thenwadventure #pnwadventures #jaw__shots #onlyinwashington #wanderwashington #pnwonderland #pnwescapes #pnwdiscovered #roamtheplanet #washingtonexplored #ourpnw #ourplanetdaily #yourshotphotographer
bilatiaxomiya
95 likes • 4.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tour Hours First

Volunteer tours are limited; check times before you go to climb the tower! :ticket:

Ladder to the Top!

The final ascent is a ladder. Babies/toddlers may not be allowed. :baby:

Grounds are Always Open

Even if tours are closed, enjoy the lighthouse exterior & park views. :camerawithflash:

Souvenir Stop

Visit the gift shop for unique lighthouse-themed items. :gift:

Deer Sightings Possible

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like deer grazing nearby! :deer:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(937 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Admiralty Head Lighthouse for its beautiful architecture, stunning views from the tower, and peaceful atmosphere. The opportunity to explore the historic Fort Casey State Park grounds adds significant value. However, some note the limited tour hours due to volunteer staffing and the challenging ladder ascent to the tower's peak.

"Beautiful lighthouse with easy access. The tours are operated by volunteers, so the hours are limited. Take the tour, visit the museum, and stop by the gift shop for a souvenir. It's a very peaceful place to enjoy."

Jon Kroeker

"Cute little lighthouse on Fort Casey. After exploring Fort Casey all day, we stopped by and were able to go up into the lighthouse tower around 3:30. They close the lighthouse to the public at 4pm.
It was really neat to get to climb into the tower. There are stairs, but near the top there is a little ladder you will need to climb. It was super hot up there, but the views were amazing."

Jessie Fox

"A must-see historical landmark if you're in the area! We visited while waiting for the ferry, and it turned out to be the perfect way to pass the time while soaking up some fascinating history. Even after hours, you can stroll the grounds and enjoy the experience."

Justin Brummage

What People Like

Beautiful lighthouse architecture
Panoramic tower views
Peaceful park setting

What People Dislike

Limited tour hours
Ladder to tower top

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Admiralty Head Lighthouse is located within Fort Casey State Park on Whidbey Island, Washington. You can reach Whidbey Island via ferry from Mukilteo or drive north from the mainland. Once on the island, follow signs for Fort Casey State Park. The lighthouse is a prominent feature within the park. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is ample parking available within Fort Casey State Park, near the lighthouse. Parking fees may apply for the state park. TikTok

The lighthouse is situated within Fort Casey State Park, so access to the grounds and lighthouse typically requires entry into the park. A Washington State Discover Pass or daily fee is usually required for park entry. TikTok

Driving is the most convenient way to explore Whidbey Island and reach Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Public transportation options are limited. Renting a car or using your own vehicle is recommended. TikTok

If you're coming from the Seattle area, you'll likely take the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry. Check the WSDOT ferry schedule for departure times and potential wait times, especially during peak travel periods. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The lighthouse itself offers free admission, but a Washington State Discover Pass or a day-use fee is required to enter Fort Casey State Park where it's located. Reddit

The lighthouse is operated by volunteers, so hours can be limited and vary. It's best to check the official Washington State Parks website or local listings for the most current operating hours before your visit. Tours often close around 4 PM. Reddit

Advance booking for lighthouse tours is generally not available. Access is typically on a first-come, first-served basis during operating hours. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, due to the final ladder ascent, staff may not permit carrying babies or toddlers. Visitors should be able to safely navigate stairs and a ladder. Reddit

The Fort Casey State Park entry fee grants access to the park grounds, including the historic gun batteries, beaches, and the exterior of Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Tower tours may have specific volunteer-led schedules. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the lighthouse grounds, visit the small museum and gift shop, and if tours are available, climb to the top of the tower for stunning views. The surrounding Fort Casey State Park also offers historic batteries to explore and beautiful coastal scenery. InstagramReddit

The climb involves stairs, but the final section to the very top is a ladder. It can be hot inside the tower, and visitors should be comfortable with heights and physical exertion. Reddit

Restroom facilities are available within Fort Casey State Park, typically near the main visitor areas and parking lots. TikTok

Absolutely! The lighthouse and its surroundings offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Fort Casey State Park has many scenic spots perfect for a picnic. You can enjoy your meal with views of the lighthouse and the Puget Sound. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly at the lighthouse. However, you can find restaurants and cafes in nearby towns like Coupeville or Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island. TikTok

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option. There are many scenic spots within Fort Casey State Park to enjoy your meal. TikTok

Whidbey Island offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual cafes and seafood restaurants to more upscale options, particularly in towns like Coupeville and Langley. TikTok

Food delivery services may be limited on Whidbey Island, especially to more remote park areas. It's advisable to plan for bringing your own food or dining in nearby towns. TikTok

Whidbey Island is known for its fresh seafood, particularly mussels and oysters, as well as local produce and artisanal products. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for photographing the lighthouse. Overcast or even rainy days can add a dramatic, moody atmosphere. Instagram+1

You can capture wide-angle shots of the lighthouse against the sea and sky, close-ups of its architectural details, and scenic views from the tower. Wildlife, like deer, can also be subjects. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically restricted within Washington State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest park regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures. Instagram

The area around the lighthouse offers numerous vantage points. The bluff overlooking the water provides expansive views, and the interior of the tower offers unique perspectives. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Admiralty Head Lighthouse and Fort Casey State Park offer a great mix of history and outdoor fun for families. Kids will love exploring the historic gun batteries and imagining life as a soldier. The open grounds are perfect for running around and having a picnic. TikTok While the lighthouse tower climb involves stairs and a ladder, making it challenging for very young children or babies, the park itself provides plenty of engaging activities. Consider bringing a carrier for infants if you plan to attempt the tower climb, or enjoy the views from the base and explore the park's other features. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Admiralty Head Lighthouse is a dream. The Spanish-style architecture offers a unique subject, especially when framed against the dramatic coastal scenery of Whidbey Island. Aim for the golden hours for the most captivating light, but don't shy away from moody, overcast days which can add a special atmosphere. Instagram+1 Beyond the lighthouse, the surrounding Fort Casey State Park provides ample opportunities for landscape and historical photography, with its old gun emplacements and sweeping ocean views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like deer, which can add an extra element to your shots. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

Admiralty Head Lighthouse is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history and coastal defense. Located within Fort Casey State Park, the site offers a dual historical experience. Explore the Admiralty Head Lighthouse, which dates back to 1903, and learn about its role in guiding ships through the Puget Sound. Reddit Then, delve into the military history of Fort Casey, examining the impressive disappearing gun batteries and other fortifications designed to protect the entrance to Puget Sound. The volunteer docents at the lighthouse are often knowledgeable and eager to share historical anecdotes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Fort Casey State Park

Admiralty Head Lighthouse is nestled within the historic Fort Casey State Park, a significant coastal defense site. The park itself is a major draw, offering visitors a chance to explore well-preserved gun batteries and learn about the area's military history. These batteries, built in the early 20th century, provide a fascinating glimpse into coastal defense strategies. Visitors can wander through the concrete structures, imagining their past purpose. TikTokInstagram

The park also boasts beautiful beaches and open grassy areas, making it an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the stunning views of the Puget Sound. The combination of historical exploration and natural beauty makes Fort Casey a comprehensive destination. Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to the lighthouse with a thorough exploration of the park's military remnants. TikTokInstagram

The Admiralty Head Lighthouse Experience

The Admiralty Head Lighthouse itself is a charming Spanish-style structure, offering a picturesque scene against the backdrop of the water. While the exterior is beautiful, the real magic for many is the opportunity to climb the tower. This experience is often highlighted by visitors, who describe the ascent via stairs and a final ladder as rewarding. The panoramic views from the top are consistently praised, offering sweeping vistas of the Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the surrounding islands. InstagramReddit

Access to the tower is dependent on volunteer docents, meaning hours can be limited. It's crucial to check the schedule upon arrival or beforehand. Even if the tower is closed, the lighthouse grounds are accessible, and the gift shop offers a chance to pick up souvenirs and learn more about the lighthouse's history. The overall atmosphere is described as peaceful and historic, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and sightseers alike. TikTokReddit

Photography Tips for Admiralty Head

Admiralty Head Lighthouse provides a stunning subject for photographers, with its unique architecture and scenic location. The best light for capturing the lighthouse is often during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – when the light is soft and warm, casting beautiful shadows. Overcast or even rainy days can also yield dramatic and moody shots, as noted by some visitors. Instagram+1

Beyond the lighthouse itself, the surrounding Fort Casey State Park offers numerous photographic opportunities. Capture the expansive coastal landscapes, the historic gun batteries, and the wildlife that often frequents the area, such as deer grazing peacefully nearby. From the top of the lighthouse tower, you can also get unique perspectives of the park and the surrounding waterways. Remember to check for any park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial shots. TikTokInstagram

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