Point Wilson Lighthouse Port Townsend
Historic 1914 lighthouse on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, guiding ships and offering stunning Puget Sound views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Point Wilson Lighthouse Port Townsend
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1914 lighthouse on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, guiding ships and offering stunning Puget Sound views.
"A beautiful spot offering a relaxing blend of history, nature, and stunning views—we can't recommend it enough!"
Check Open Hours First
Lighthouse access varies; confirm hours with volunteers before your visit. :clock1:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve this historic site. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Point Wilson Lighthouse
Fort Worden State Park
Iconic 1914 lighthouse guiding ships into Puget Sound. A symbol of maritime history and coastal beauty.
Fresnel Lens
Inside the lighthouse (when open)
Marvel at the intricate Fresnel lens, a testament to maritime engineering and a key feature of the lighthouse.
Fort Worden State Park Trails
Surrounding the lighthouse
Wander scenic coastal paths with views of seabirds, fishing spots, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring Fort Worden
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Open Hours First
Lighthouse access varies; confirm hours with volunteers before your visit. :clock1:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve this historic site. :moneybag:
Explore Fort Worden
Allow ample time for park trails, historic batteries, and coastal views. :hiking_boot:
Gift Shop & Snacks
Browse unique items and enjoy a treat after exploring. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Open Hours First
Lighthouse access varies; confirm hours with volunteers before your visit. :clock1:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve this historic site. :moneybag:
Explore Fort Worden
Allow ample time for park trails, historic batteries, and coastal views. :hiking_boot:
Gift Shop & Snacks
Browse unique items and enjoy a treat after exploring. :gift:
Coastal Views Galore
Enjoy stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Point Wilson Lighthouse as a beautiful and historic gem within Fort Worden State Park. The knowledgeable docents, stunning coastal views, and the opportunity to see the Fresnel lens are frequently highlighted. While access to the interior can vary, the scenic grounds and the park's overall charm make it a highly recommended stop for its blend of history and natural beauty.
"Point Wilson Lighthouse is a must-see if you're in the Port Townsend area. Set within Fort Worden State Park, It's a beautiful place to relax and soak up the beauty of the Puget Sound.
Visiting the lighthouse is made extra special by the many knowledgeable and friendly docents. They are fantastic storytellers who are passionate about sharing information, from the history of the lighthouse and its important role in maritime navigation to fascinating tidbits about the impressive Fresnel lens.
Being able to walk up to the very top and see the working light up close was really cool, and unique highlight of our visit!
The gift shop is wonderful and has a wide variety of things to look at, and the small snack area with ice cream is a perfect treat after exploring.
We spent hours enjoying the extensive walking trails around the lighthouse and throughout the state park, which offer great views of seabirds and people fishing along the water.
This beautiful spot offers a relaxing blend of history, nature, and stunning views—we can't recommend it enough!"
Ann Seibert
"Point Wilson Lighthouse is a charming and historic spot, perfect for a scenic stop in Washington. While the lighthouse is generally open to visitors and run by volunteers—meaning admission is free, with donations warmly encouraged—it’s worth checking current open hours before you go. When we visited, we couldn’t go inside or up the tower, but the grounds were still lovely to explore. Typically, there’s a small museum and gift shop inside with information on Washington’s lighthouses, which adds a nice educational touch to your visit. Even without access to the tower, this lighthouse is a beautiful reminder of maritime history and the importance of preserving public spaces like this."
Marta Stashevska
"Such a fun place to linger while in Port Townsend. Fun Fact: The beach here, Fort Worden, and Battery Kinsie were host to the filming of An Officer and A Gentleman here in 1982. Enjoy!"
H Grissom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point Wilson Lighthouse is located within Fort Worden State Park, just a short drive from downtown Port Townsend. Follow signs for Fort Worden State Park, and then navigate towards the lighthouse. Parking is available nearby.
Public transportation options directly to the lighthouse are limited. It's best to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you are not arriving by car.
A short, accessible trail leads from the parking area to the lighthouse, offering beautiful coastline views along the way.
Drone usage may be restricted within Fort Worden State Park. Always check park regulations before flying.
Yes, the lighthouse is part of Fort Worden State Park, which features historic batteries, beaches, and walking trails. Port Townsend's charming downtown is also nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the grounds of Point Wilson Lighthouse is generally free, as it's located within Fort Worden State Park. Donations are warmly encouraged to support its upkeep.
The lighthouse is often staffed by volunteers, so hours can vary. It's recommended to check current open hours before your visit, especially if you wish to go inside.
When open, visitors can tour the inside of the lighthouse and even go up to the top to see the working light up close.
A Discover Pass is typically required for parking at Washington State Parks, including Fort Worden. You can purchase this online or at the park.
Keep an eye out for special events, such as National Lighthouse Day, which might offer unique tours or activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the lighthouse grounds, learn about its history from knowledgeable docents, admire the Fresnel lens, and enjoy the scenic walking trails of Fort Worden State Park.
Absolutely! The lighthouse offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset, with the Puget Sound as a backdrop.
Restroom facilities are generally available within Fort Worden State Park.
The grounds are generally accessible, but interior access to the tower may be limited. Check with park staff for specific accessibility information.
You might spot various seabirds and marine life along the coast. The area is also known for its natural beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There isn't a full restaurant at the lighthouse itself, but there is a small snack area with ice cream available.
Port Townsend offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants, a short drive from the lighthouse.
Picnicking is a great option! You can enjoy your own food on the scenic grounds of Fort Worden State Park.
Food availability can vary, but it's always a good idea to bring snacks or plan to dine in Port Townsend.
Seafood is a local specialty. Look for fresh catches like salmon, oysters, and Dungeness crab.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lighthouse and the surrounding waters.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the lighthouse against the sea, detailed shots of the architecture, and scenic views of the coastline.
The beach area and the walking trails around the lighthouse provide excellent vantage points for diverse photography.
Yes, you can find beautiful giclée prints of the Point Wilson Lighthouse for sale, perfect for home or office decor.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the lighthouse, the park provides ample space for children to run and play on the beaches. Exploring the historic batteries can feel like an adventure, sparking their imagination. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings, and consider visiting the small snack area for a sweet treat.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the intricate Fresnel lens if the lighthouse is open for tours. The surrounding Fort Worden State Park also offers diverse photographic subjects, from the rugged coastline and seabirds to the historic military structures. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive views and a telephoto lens for wildlife.
👻 Paranormal Investigators & Ghost Story Fans
While the lighthouse is a historical landmark, its rumored paranormal activity adds an extra layer of mystique. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories contribute to the unique atmosphere of the site and are a popular topic among visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
The lighthouse is more than just a navigational aid; it's a symbol of Port Townsend's rich maritime heritage. Its presence evokes a sense of history and the enduring connection between the community and the sea. The stories of the keepers and the lighthouse's role in naval history add a compelling layer to any visit.
Interestingly, the area around the lighthouse, including Fort Worden and Battery Kinsie, was also a filming location for the 1982 movie 'An Officer and a Gentleman,' adding a touch of cinematic history to the site.
Exploring Fort Worden State Park
Beyond the lighthouse, the park boasts well-preserved historic batteries and fortifications, remnants of its military past. These structures provide a fascinating glimpse into coastal defense history and are intriguing to explore. The park also features beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the sea air.
For those interested in outdoor activities, Fort Worden is a popular spot for stand-up paddleboarding and other water sports, with routes often heading towards or from the lighthouse.
The park's diverse landscape makes it an ideal destination for a full day of exploration, combining history, nature, and scenic beauty.The Legend of the Lady in White
This legend has even inspired paranormal podcasts and investigations, with some visitors reporting eerie experiences during their stays in the Keeper's Duplex. The tales of the Lady in White contribute to the lighthouse's atmospheric charm and draw those interested in the supernatural.
While the lighthouse itself is a beacon of safety and history, these ghost stories add a captivating, albeit spooky, dimension to its narrative, making it a point of interest for both history buffs and ghost hunters alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit