Castle Hill Lighthouse
Historic 1890 lighthouse on a cliff overlooking Narragansett Bay, offering stunning coastal views and iconic sunset backdrops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Castle Hill Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1890 lighthouse on a cliff overlooking Narragansett Bay, offering stunning coastal views and iconic sunset backdrops.
"A hidden gem and a must-see in Newport, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful, stunning spot."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Aim for late afternoon to witness the stunning sunset over the water.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
A short, marked trail leads from the parking lot to the lighthouse.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Views
Cliffside overlooking Narragansett Bay
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky behind the iconic lighthouse. A truly magical experience.
The Lighthouse Itself
End of Ocean Drive
Admire the historic 1800s lighthouse perched on the cliff, offering a picturesque scene against the ocean.
+1Coastal Walk
Trail from parking lot
Enjoy a short, scenic walk along the coast to reach the lighthouse, with beautiful ocean vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Access and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Aim for late afternoon to witness the stunning sunset over the water.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
A short, marked trail leads from the parking lot to the lighthouse.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The lighthouse and surrounding cliffs offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be confusing; look for the self-parking lot near the marina.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Aim for late afternoon to witness the stunning sunset over the water.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
A short, marked trail leads from the parking lot to the lighthouse.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The lighthouse and surrounding cliffs offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be confusing; look for the self-parking lot near the marina.
🚫 No Interior Access
You can't go inside the lighthouse, but you can get close.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Castle Hill Lighthouse is widely loved for its stunning coastal beauty, especially during sunset, and its easily accessible trail. Visitors appreciate the picturesque views and the opportunity to get close to the historic structure. Some find parking confusing and note that dining at the nearby inn is pricey.
"Cool little lighthouse. You take the trail across from the parking lot next to the little marina where the coast guard boat is. The trail is marked and not too long ( about 1/4 mile). At the end are some large rocks and the lighthouse. Can't go in, but you can take the steps down right up to it. Great view of the bridge and inlet. Nice view."
C K
"Me and my friends came here for sunset and it was gorgeous! Nice views of the ocean, the bridge, Caste Hills back yard area.
You can sit on a bench, you can go down to the rocks, so many options, so many trails.
Its such a fun experience to get up close to a light house by the water. I had boats honking their horns at us as we waved to them."
ELOCIN RUZAM
"Cool little lighthouse with a short, easy trail—about 1/4 mile—from the parking lot by the marina and Coast Guard boat. We got soaked on the way there and back—it really poured during our visit! You can’t go inside, but steps lead right up to it. Great views, even in the rain!"
Marta Stashevska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Castle Hill Lighthouse is located at the end of Ocean Drive in Newport, Rhode Island. You can drive there and park in the lot near the marina and Coast Guard boat. Some GPS might initially direct you to the Castle Hill Inn, but the lighthouse parking is separate.
Yes, there is a parking lot available. It can sometimes be confusing to find the correct self-parking area, so look for the lot across from the small trail leading to the lighthouse.
While public transport options directly to the lighthouse are limited, you can take a bus or taxi into Newport and then arrange for a ride-share service or taxi to reach the lighthouse.
The main trail to the lighthouse is a dirt path and can be uneven. While you can get close, navigating the rocky areas around the lighthouse might be challenging for wheelchairs.
Ocean Drive is a scenic route in Newport, and Castle Hill Lighthouse is a key stop. Driving the entire loop offers stunning coastal views and access to several points of interest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Castle Hill Lighthouse is a free activity. There is no admission fee to access the grounds and walk up to the lighthouse.
The interior of Castle Hill Lighthouse is not open to the public for tours. However, you can walk right up to the exterior of the lighthouse.
Castle Hill Lighthouse is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best views.
The trail leading to Castle Hill Lighthouse from the parking lot is free to access.
While there are no strict visiting hours, it's advisable to be respectful of the surrounding property, especially the Castle Hill Inn, and to visit during daylight for safety.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' before sunset offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos. Sunrise is also a peaceful and less crowded time for photography.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the lighthouse against the ocean, dramatic sunset or sunrise scenes, and even proposals or engagement photos.
While some aerial footage exists, it's crucial to check current local regulations regarding drone usage in protected coastal areas and near private properties like Castle Hill Inn.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings. A tripod can be helpful for sunset or sunrise shots to ensure sharp images.
The trail leads to the lighthouse itself, and the surrounding rocks offer various angles. The view also encompasses the bay and the Newport Bridge.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the historic Castle Hill Inn is located nearby and offers upscale dining with beautiful views. For more casual options, Newport has numerous restaurants.
Castle Hill Inn offers dining on its terrace or in its restaurant, providing a more luxurious experience. Reservations are often recommended.
While there aren't designated picnic areas right at the lighthouse, you can find spots along Ocean Drive or in nearby parks for a picnic.
Newport offers a wide range of dining, from fresh seafood like lobster rolls to international cuisine and classic American fare.
Castle Hill Inn is known for its upscale dining and can be expensive, as noted by some visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lighthouse itself isn't explorable inside, the surrounding rocky areas and the ocean views provide plenty of sensory stimulation. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dedicated picnic facilities are limited. For a more substantial family experience, the nearby Castle Hill Inn offers a more upscale, but potentially kid-friendly, dining option with beautiful views.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
+2Beyond sunsets, the lighthouse offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography throughout the day. The unique architecture of the lighthouse perched on the cliff, combined with the expansive ocean views and the Newport Bridge in the distance, provides a variety of compelling compositions. Early mornings offer a serene, less crowded experience for capturing the sunrise.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
Visiting during sunset offers a truly magical and intimate experience. Afterwards, consider a romantic dinner at the nearby Castle Hill Inn for a luxurious end to your day, or simply enjoy a quiet moment together by the water.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Castle Hill Lighthouse
+1The lighthouse is situated on the grounds of the historic Castle Hill Inn, a luxurious Relais & Châteaux property. This proximity means visitors can experience the lighthouse and then enjoy the refined amenities of the inn, such as dining on its terrace or exploring its well-maintained gardens. The area around the lighthouse has also been a popular spot for proposals and engagement photos, adding a romantic element to its appeal.
+1While you can't go inside the lighthouse, the experience of walking the short trail from the parking lot and standing at its base is highly rewarding. The views of the bay, the Newport Bridge, and the surrounding coastline are breathtaking, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Newport.
Experiencing Castle Hill Lighthouse: A Traveler's Perspective
The sunset views are a major attraction, with visitors describing the experience as 'gorgeous' and 'magical.' The dramatic light painting the sky behind the lighthouse creates unforgettable moments. Even in less-than-ideal weather, like rain, the views are still considered 'great.'
While the lighthouse itself is the main focus, the surrounding coastal scenery and the proximity to the Castle Hill Inn add to the overall appeal. Some visitors note that while the lighthouse is free to visit, dining at the inn can be quite expensive.
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