Rose Island Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse offering unique overnight stays and tours, accessible by ferry in Newport, RI.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful start
Rose Island Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful start
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic lighthouse offering unique overnight stays and tours, accessible by ferry in Newport, RI.
"Live out your lighthouse keeper fantasy with an unforgettable overnight stay!"
Book Overnight Stays Early
Limited rooms mean booking months ahead is crucial for overnight stays.
Ferry is Key Access
The Jamestown-Newport Ferry is your ride. Check schedules & book tickets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Overnight Lighthouse Stay
Lighthouse accommodations
Live out your lighthouse keeper fantasy! Unique rooms offer solitude and stunning bay views.
Historic Lighthouse Tours
Rose Island Lighthouse
Step back in time and explore the history of this iconic beacon. Daily tours available seasonally.
Seaglass Hunting
Rose Island shores
Discover hidden treasures along the shoreline; Rose Island is known for its abundant seaglass.
Paranormal Investigations
Rose Island Lighthouse
For the brave, explore the lighthouse's rumored haunted past and chilling tales.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Overnight Adventure
Island Access & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Overnight Stays Early
Limited rooms mean booking months ahead is crucial for overnight stays.
Ferry is Key Access
The Jamestown-Newport Ferry is your ride. Check schedules & book tickets.
Pack for Island Life
Bring layers, comfortable shoes, and sun protection for your island adventure.
Seaglass Treasure Hunt
Keep an eye out for beautiful seaglass along the island's shores. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Overnight Stays Early
Limited rooms mean booking months ahead is crucial for overnight stays.
Ferry is Key Access
The Jamestown-Newport Ferry is your ride. Check schedules & book tickets.
Pack for Island Life
Bring layers, comfortable shoes, and sun protection for your island adventure.
Seaglass Treasure Hunt
Keep an eye out for beautiful seaglass along the island's shores. +1
Support Preservation
Consider ordering a custom license plate to help fund lighthouse preservation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of staying overnight at the historic Rose Island Lighthouse, praising its serene atmosphere and stunning views. The ferry ride adds to the adventure, and many enjoy the opportunity to hunt for seaglass. Some find the facilities basic, and the need to pack all food and drinks requires planning.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Rose Island Lighthouse is primarily via the Jamestown-Newport Ferry, which departs from Newport or Jamestown. There is also a landing fee for the island.
Ferry schedules vary by season. It's best to check the Jamestown-Newport Ferry website for the most up-to-date operating hours and departure times.
No, Rose Island is only accessible by boat. The Jamestown-Newport Ferry is the recommended mode of transport.
Parking availability can vary at ferry terminals. It's advisable to research parking options in Newport or Jamestown in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
A landing fee is required to access Rose Island. This fee contributes to the upkeep and preservation of the lighthouse and island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Rose Island Lighthouse website for current ticket prices and availability. Daily tours typically start around Memorial Day.
Overnight stays are available from April through October. Booking well in advance is highly recommended as spots are limited.
Daily tours usually commence on Memorial Day and run through the season. Specific hours can be found on the Rose Island Lighthouse website.
Members often receive discounts on overnight bookings, and there may be seasonal promotions like April stays being 20% off.
Yes, Rose Island Lighthouse is available for events. Inquire directly with the lighthouse management for details and availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take historical tours, enjoy overnight stays, hunt for seaglass, and experience the serene island environment. Some visitors also explore its rumored haunted history. +3
Staying overnight offers a unique experience of solitude and living like a 1910 keeper, with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Absolutely! The lighthouse, surrounding bay, and Claiborne Pell Bridge offer spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Yes, the lighthouse is known for its haunted history, with reports of paranormal activity and chilling tales. +1
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Dress in layers as coastal weather can change quickly. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site dining facilities on Rose Island. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and beverages for the day or during their overnight stay.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Newport and Jamestown offer a variety of restaurants and cafes near the ferry terminals. You can dine before or after your island visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lighthouse and Narragansett Bay.
Landscape, seascape, drone photography, and historical architecture photography are very popular here. +1
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the Rose Island Lighthouse management or local regulations regarding drone operation. +1
The lighthouse itself, the surrounding coastline, the Claiborne Pell Bridge in the distance, and the shores for seaglass are prime photography locations.
Yes, overnight guests have ample opportunity to capture stunning photos, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For an unforgettable experience, overnight stays can be a thrilling adventure for older children, allowing them to imagine life as a lighthouse keeper. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and on the lighthouse stairs.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Many paranormal investigators have documented their experiences here, adding to the lore. Researching the lighthouse's history, including its more chilling aspects, can enhance your visit.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, providing golden hour light that enhances the beauty of the lighthouse. Content creators will find the unique setting perfect for creating engaging videos and photos. Whether it's capturing the serene island life, the historic architecture, or the thrill of an overnight stay, Rose Island provides a picturesque backdrop. Drone pilots can capture breathtaking aerial views, though it's wise to check drone regulations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Keeper's Life: Overnight Stays
+1 Proceeds from these stays directly support the preservation of this iconic landmark and its surrounding ecosystem. Guests often describe the experience as peaceful and magical, with stunning views of Narragansett Bay. It's a chance to disconnect and enjoy the solitude of island life. Booking well in advance is crucial, as these unique accommodations are highly sought after.
What to Expect
* Accommodations: Rooms are available within the lighthouse itself, offering a historic and intimate setting.
* Amenities: While historic, the lighthouse provides a comfortable stay. Be prepared for a unique, rustic charm.
* Booking: Stays are limited and require advance reservation, often starting with members getting priority or early access.
History and Hauntings of Rose Island
Beyond its operational history, the island is rumored to be haunted. Stories circulate about restless spirits and unexplained occurrences, adding a layer of intrigue for paranormal enthusiasts. Some accounts mention unearthed bodies and eerie sounds, contributing to its reputation as a haunted location.
Key Historical Points
* Construction: Built in 1870, it replaced an earlier light station.
* Decommissioning: Automated in 1970, ending its active manned service.
* Preservation: Efforts have saved it from demolition and transformed it into a historical site and unique lodging.
Getting to the Island: Ferry and Access
The ferry service is essential for both day visitors and those staying overnight, providing the sole means of access. Visitors should be aware that a landing fee is required upon arrival at Rose Island. This fee is crucial for the ongoing maintenance and preservation of the lighthouse and its grounds. Planning your trip around the ferry schedule is key, as departures and returns are timed to accommodate visitors.
Travel Tips
* Ferry Schedule: Always check the latest ferry timetable before your visit, as it can change seasonally.
* Landing Fee: Be prepared to pay the landing fee upon arrival.
* Alternative Access: While the ferry is standard, inquire about other potential boat services if needed, though the ferry is the most common.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit