Five Mile Point Lighthouse | New Haven

Information

Landmark: Five Mile Point Lighthouse
City: New Haven
Country: USA Connecticut
Continent: North America

Five Mile Point Lighthouse, New Haven, USA Connecticut, North America

Five Mile Point Lighthouse is a historic navigational aid situated on the coast of New Haven, Connecticut.

It is located at the eastern entrance to New Haven Harbor.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse structure is an octagonal brick tower, painted white, standing approximately 60 feet tall. It features a black lantern room and a red roof. The tower is attached to a keeper's dwelling, also constructed of brick.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is accessible via Lighthouse Road in New Haven. It is approximately 5 miles east of the New Haven city center. Parking is available at the end of Lighthouse Road, adjacent to the property. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is several miles away, requiring a significant walk or taxi service.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Five Mile Point Lighthouse was completed in 1808. It was built to guide ships into New Haven Harbor. The site is composed of coastal sedimentary rock formations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the lighthouse exterior and surrounding grounds. Photography of the structure and coastal views is permitted. Access to the interior of the lighthouse and keeper's dwelling is generally restricted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available on-site. There is limited natural shade provided by a few scattered trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the area. No food vendors are located directly at the lighthouse; dining options are available in the city of New Haven.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions on the lighthouse. The months of May through October provide the most temperate weather for visiting. Tidal conditions do not significantly impact access to the lighthouse itself.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that during a severe storm in the 19th century, the lighthouse keeper kept the light burning for three consecutive days without sleep, preventing several shipwrecks.