Fenwick Island Lighthouse | Fenwick Island

Information

Landmark: Fenwick Island Lighthouse
City: Fenwick Island
Country: USA Delaware
Continent: North America

Fenwick Island Lighthouse, Fenwick Island, USA Delaware, North America

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is an active lighthouse located on Fenwick Island, Delaware, USA.

It marks the southeasternmost point of Delaware.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse is a conical brick tower, painted white. It stands 87 feet (27 meters) tall. The lantern room is topped with a black, octagonal roof. The focal plane of the light is 90 feet (27 meters) above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is situated at 100 Lighthouse Road, Fenwick Island, DE 19944. It is approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km) west of the Atlantic Ocean. Access is via Lighthouse Road, which connects to Coastal Highway (DE-1). Parking is available on-site in a designated lot. No public transport directly serves the lighthouse; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse was completed in 1859. It was built by the U.S. Lighthouse Board. Its original purpose was to guide ships along the Delaware coast and into the Delaware Bay.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can climb the 111 steps to the top of the lighthouse during scheduled tour times. The tower offers views of the surrounding coastal area. The grounds are accessible for exploration.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. 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 lighthouse; dining options are available in the nearby town of Fenwick Island.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions. The lighthouse is open for tours from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Tours are typically offered on specific days of the week, with limited hours. Check the official schedule for exact operating dates and times.