Block Island Southeast Light - Image 1
1 / 3

Block Island Southeast Light

4.6
·491k reviews·New Shoreham, United States

Historic 1875 lighthouse on dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, famous for its green light and incredible relocation story.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, early morning

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Block Island Southeast Light - Image 1

Block Island Southeast Light

Best Time

Weekdays, early morning

Fewer crowds, golden hour light

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1875 lighthouse on dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, famous for its green light and incredible relocation story.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Southeast Light stands tall through every season—watching waves crash and time pass."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Bluffs

Explore the trails around the lighthouse for stunning ocean vistas. Wear sturdy shoes!

📸 Capture the Views

The lighthouse and bluffs offer incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise/sunset.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Southeast Light

The Majestic Southeast Light

Mohegan Bluffs

A stunning 19th-century lighthouse perched atop dramatic cliffs, offering panoramic ocean views.

Mohegan Bluffs Overlook

Mohegan Bluffs Overlook

Adjacent to the lighthouse

Breathtaking 250-foot high cliffs with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Lighthouse's Inland Journey

The Lighthouse's Inland Journey

Grounds of the lighthouse

Learn about the incredible 1993 relocation of this historic structure to save it from erosion.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

Block Island Southeast Light is a popular spot, especially during peak season. To experience its grandeur with fewer people, aim for weekdays outside of summer holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene visit and better light for photos.

Understanding the Lighthouse's Move

The Southeast Light was famously moved inland in 1993 to protect it from coastal erosion. This engineering feat is a testament to its historical significance and a fascinating story to learn before or during your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring and Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Block Island Southeast Lighthouse Block Island, RI April 2023 . . . #blockisland #blockislandri #blockislandlighthouse #blockislandsoutheastlighthouse #blockislandsoutheastlight #rhodeislandlighthouses #onlyinrhodeisland #nautical #nautical_images #nautical_images⚓️ #lighthousesofnewengland #newengland #newenglandlighthouses #lighthouselovers #lighthouses_windmills_gs #lighthousesrule #lighthouses...
nautical_light
75 likes • 777 views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Bluffs

Explore the trails around the lighthouse for stunning ocean vistas. Wear sturdy shoes! Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

The lighthouse and bluffs offer incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise/sunset. Instagram

At Southeast Light Delights, located on the breathtaking Mohegan Bluffs by the Southeast Lighthouse, one bite of their lobster rolls (or grilled cheese!!) will have you hooked! 🦞😋 Freshest on Block Island, it’s a taste you absolutely can’t miss. Want to savor one of the island’s best-kept secret? Follow @southeastlightdelights_bi and get ready to roll with the best! 🎣 #BlockIslandEats #Lobster...
so_rimag
0 likes • 8.1K views
The Block Island Southeast Light sits 12 miles off the coast of Rhode Island and was designated a historic landmark in 1997. The structure is notable for being "one of the finest lighthouses constructed by the US Light House Board in the 19th century," according to the National Park Service. There are two tales associated with this stately lighthouse that contribute to its haunting. The first inv...
official_severed_soul_
1 likes • 11 views

💡 Learn the History

Discover the fascinating story of the lighthouse's move inland to save it from erosion. Instagram

🍽️ Grab a Bite Nearby

Southeast Light Delights offers delicious lobster rolls and grilled cheese. Instagram

Straight off the print.. southeast light cards!! So excited #emedsart #originalart #blockisland #southeastlighthouse #stampart
emedsart
16 likes • 181 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Bluffs

Explore the trails around the lighthouse for stunning ocean vistas. Wear sturdy shoes! Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

The lighthouse and bluffs offer incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise/sunset. Instagram

💡 Learn the History

Discover the fascinating story of the lighthouse's move inland to save it from erosion. Instagram

🍽️ Grab a Bite Nearby

Southeast Light Delights offers delicious lobster rolls and grilled cheese. Instagram

👻 Hear the Ghost Stories

Some believe the lighthouse is haunted; ask locals for tales of Paule Loring. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from Mohegan Bluffs and the iconic beauty of the Southeast Light. The lighthouse's history, especially its relocation, is a fascinating point of interest. Some find the island itself a bit sleepy, but the natural splendor of the lighthouse area is undeniable.

What People Like

Stunning ocean views
Iconic lighthouse architecture
Fascinating relocation history

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Island can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Block Island is accessible by ferry from various mainland ports. Once on the island, the Southeast Light is located at the southern tip, atop Mohegan Bluffs. You can reach it by car, taxi, or bike. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking area available near the lighthouse. It can get busy during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. Instagram

It's a significant distance to walk from the ferry terminal to the Southeast Light. Renting a bike or taking a taxi is a more practical option for most visitors. Reddit

Many visitors rent bikes or scooters to get around the island and visit attractions like the Southeast Light. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

Block Island has a seasonal bus service, but it may not directly serve all attractions. Renting a vehicle or using taxis is generally more convenient for reaching the Southeast Light. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the grounds and the exterior of the lighthouse is generally free. However, there might be fees for guided tours or to enter the lighthouse itself, depending on the season and availability. Instagram

The lighthouse grounds are typically accessible year-round during daylight hours. Specific tour times or interior access may vary, so it's best to check the official Block Island Historical Society or lighthouse website for current hours. Instagram

The Mohegan Bluffs overlook is a public area and does not typically have an admission fee. Enjoy the stunning views freely! Instagram

Interior access and tours of the Block Island Southeast Light are often available seasonally. It's advisable to check with the Block Island Historical Society for tour schedules and booking information. Instagram

While the grounds are generally open, be mindful of any posted signs or restricted areas. Respect the historical nature of the site and the surrounding environment. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lighthouse and the bluffs. Golden hour provides a soft, beautiful glow. Instagram+1

You can capture sweeping panoramic ocean views, dramatic cliffside shots, and the iconic lighthouse against the backdrop of the sea. Drone photography might be restricted, so check local regulations. Instagram

The main overlook at Mohegan Bluffs offers the most iconic views. Exploring some of the less-trafficked paths along the bluff edges can also yield unique perspectives, but exercise caution. Instagram

If you take a guided tour inside the lighthouse, photography policies may vary. It's best to ask your tour guide about restrictions before taking pictures inside. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the bluffs and lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the lighthouse structure or distant ocean scenes. Instagram

🎫 💡 History & Significance

It's renowned for its architectural sophistication, its unique flashing green light, and its dramatic relocation in 1993 to save it from coastal erosion. It's a National Historic Landmark. Instagram+1

The lighthouse was constructed in 1875 and has been a beacon for mariners for over a century. Instagram+1

The cliffs at Mohegan Bluffs were eroding rapidly, threatening the lighthouse. In 1993, it was moved 300 feet inland in an incredible feat of engineering. Instagram

While it may not be the primary navigational aid it once was, the lighthouse is maintained and often still operational, serving as a historical landmark and a beautiful sight. Instagram

Yes, local lore suggests the lighthouse is haunted by the ghost of Paule Loring, a fisherman lost at sea. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Block Island Southeast Light will find a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The open spaces around the lighthouse and the dramatic views from Mohegan Bluffs offer plenty of room for kids to explore (with supervision, of course!). The story of the lighthouse being moved inland is also a fascinating tale that can capture young imaginations. Instagram

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the lighthouse can be limited. The nearby Southeast Light Delights offers kid-friendly options like grilled cheese. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for walking on the bluffs, and keep a close eye on them near the cliff edges. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

The Block Island Southeast Light and Mohegan Bluffs are a photographer's dream. The dramatic cliffs, the iconic lighthouse, and the ever-changing ocean light provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly magical for capturing the best light. Instagram+1

Artists will also find inspiration here. You can find unique artwork inspired by the lighthouse, such as prints and paper art, created by local artists. Instagram+1 The sheer beauty of the location makes it a perfect subject for sketches, paintings, or even just appreciating the artistry of nature and human creation. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers

For those who love to be on the move, the trails around Mohegan Bluffs offer a rewarding experience. You can hike along the cliff tops, enjoying the fresh sea air and spectacular views. The terrain can be varied, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must. Instagram

While the lighthouse itself is a focal point, the surrounding natural landscape provides ample opportunity for exploration. Remember to stay on marked paths and be aware of the cliff edges. The feeling of accomplishment after a good walk with such incredible scenery is unparalleled. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel: Moving the Southeast Light

The Block Island Southeast Light is not just a picturesque landmark; it's a testament to human ingenuity. In 1993, facing the relentless threat of coastal erosion from the Atlantic Ocean, this historic 1875 structure was moved a remarkable 300 feet inland. This complex operation involved lifting the entire lighthouse off its foundation and slowly inching it across the landscape on a steel track system. It was a monumental undertaking, preserving a vital piece of maritime history for future generations. Instagram

This relocation is a significant part of the lighthouse's story and a must-learn detail for any visitor. It highlights the challenges faced by coastal communities and the dedication to preserving historical sites. The fact that it was moved without significant damage is a marvel in itself, making the Block Island Southeast Light a unique attraction. Instagram

Visitors can often find information about the move on-site, adding an educational layer to the visual splendor. It’s a story that resonates with the power of nature and the determination to protect our heritage. Instagram

Exploring Mohegan Bluffs: Views and Trails

Perched 250 feet above sea level, Mohegan Bluffs offer some of the most dramatic and breathtaking coastal scenery in New England. The Block Island Southeast Light stands sentinel atop these majestic cliffs, providing a stunning focal point for the panoramic ocean vistas. The sheer drop and the endless expanse of the Atlantic create a truly awe-inspiring experience. Instagram

Beyond the iconic view of the lighthouse, the bluffs themselves are a natural wonder. Visitors can explore various trails that wind along the cliff edges, offering different perspectives of the coastline and the powerful waves crashing below. It's important to wear sturdy footwear and exercise caution, as the terrain can be uneven and the winds strong. Instagram

These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a brisk hike, or simply finding a quiet spot to soak in the natural beauty. The feeling of standing on the edge of the continent, with the vast ocean stretching out before you, is an unforgettable part of any visit to Block Island. Instagram

Local Flavors: Dining Near the Lighthouse

While the Block Island Southeast Light is the main draw, visitors can also indulge in local culinary delights nearby. Southeast Light Delights, conveniently located close to the lighthouse, is a popular spot for fresh, island-inspired fare. They are particularly known for their delicious lobster rolls and comforting grilled cheese sandwiches. Instagram

This eatery offers a casual and satisfying dining experience, perfect for refueling after exploring the bluffs and the lighthouse. It’s a great way to taste the local flavors of Block Island and enjoy a meal with a view, or at least in close proximity to one of the island's most iconic landmarks. Instagram

For those seeking more dining options, the main town of Block Island offers a wider array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. However, for a quick and tasty bite right near the lighthouse, Southeast Light Delights is a highly recommended stop. Instagram

You may also like