Fenwick Island Lighthouse | Ocean City

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Fenwick Island, Delaware, near Ocean City, Maryland. It serves as a navigational aid for maritime traffic in the Atlantic Ocean.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse is a conical brick tower, painted white with a black lantern room. It stands 87 feet (26.5 meters) tall. The structure features a red brick foundation and a white metal railing around the lantern room.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is situated at 1175 Lighthouse Road, Fenwick Island, DE 19944. It is approximately 10 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland. Access is via Lighthouse Road, which connects to Coastal Highway (US 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 to replace an earlier, less effective light. The lighthouse was automated in 1978 and is still an active aid to navigation. The site is coastal plain, characterized by sandy soil and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse during scheduled tour times to view the surrounding area. The grounds are accessible for exploration. Educational exhibits detailing the lighthouse's history and function are present within the keeper's house.

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 nearby Ocean City and Fenwick Island.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting conditions for photography, late afternoon or early morning hours are recommended. The lighthouse is open for tours seasonally, typically from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Check the official operating schedule for specific dates and times. No tide-specific access requirements exist.

Facts & Legends

A unique historical detail is that the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is the only lighthouse in Delaware. It was originally intended to be built in Maryland but was moved slightly north into Delaware territory due to a surveying error.

Nearby Landmarks

• Ocean City Boardwalk (10km South)
• Assateague Island National Seashore (15km South)
• Northside Park, Ocean City (8km South)
• Ocean City Performing Arts Center (9km South)