Clarks Point Lighthouse | New Bedford

Clarks Point Lighthouse is a historic navigational aid situated at the entrance to New Bedford Harbor in New Bedford, Massachusetts.

This lighthouse marks the western side of the harbor's main channel.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse structure is a cylindrical brick tower, painted white, with a black lantern room. It stands approximately 45 feet (13.7 meters) tall. The attached keeper's dwelling is a two-story wooden building, also painted white, with a grey roof. The tower's base is surrounded by a low stone wall.

Location & Access Logistics

Clarks Point Lighthouse is located at the southern tip of Clarks Point peninsula. It is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) south of New Bedford's city center. Access is via Cove Road, which leads to a parking area adjacent to the lighthouse. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) north on Cove Street, served by the Greater New Bedford Regional Transit Authority (GNB-RTA) Route 8.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current lighthouse was constructed in 1869, replacing an earlier structure built in 1804. It was built by the U.S. Lighthouse Board. Its original purpose was to guide maritime traffic into and out of the busy whaling port of New Bedford.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the lighthouse exterior and the keeper's dwelling. The grounds offer views of Buzzards Bay and the harbor entrance. Interpretive signage details the history of the site and its role in maritime navigation. Access to the interior of the lighthouse and dwelling is generally not permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in a separate building near the parking area. Limited shade is provided by trees on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly at the site; dining options are available in downtown New Bedford.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions on the lighthouse structure. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, when weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor exploration. High tide is not a factor for access to the lighthouse itself.

Facts & Legends

During the Civil War, the lighthouse was temporarily deactivated to prevent Confederate raiders from using its light to navigate into the harbor. A local anecdote suggests that the ghost of a former keeper can sometimes be seen tending the light, though this is unverified.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fort Taber Park (0.3km Northwest)
• New Bedford Whaling Museum (2.5km North)
• Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum (2.8km North)
• New Bedford Public Library (3.0km North)