Surrounding Lighthouses

Harbour Island Lighthouse

When Sea Pines founder, Charles Fraser, built the red-and-white striped Harbor Town Lighthouse Hilton Head skeptics thought he was a bit out of his mind. Fortunately, the man had great foresight turning it into one of the most popular landmarks in Hilton Head. The lighthouse is classified as a facsimile lighthouse and is modeled after a a lighthouse in Lancastershire, England.

The tower climbs 90 feet and there are stops within the stairway that displays historic events of Hilton Head, including the construction of the lighthouse itself. There is also a webcam at the top so you can wave to friends at home.

The lighthouse is open seven days a week and carried a $1.50 entry fee. (Sea Pines has $5 entry fee) There are two more lighthouses nearby (within Hilton Head) like the haig point Lighthouse on Daufuskie island and the Hilton Head Range Rear lighthouse in Leamington of Palmetto Dunes.

Tybee Island Lighthouse

The original Tybee Island Lighthouse, 90 feet tall, was constructed by order of James Oglethorpe and was finished in 1732. It is America's third oldest lighthouse and one of nineteen light stations in the entire country. It is the tallest of its kind and still continues to run nightly.

Also visit the keeper's cottage and the Tybee Museum along with the gist shop. The lighthouse is closed on Tuesdays and some holidays. Be sure to call in advance for times. 843-785-5801

Tybee Island Lighthouse website

Hunting Island Lighthouse

16 miles east of Beaufort SC, lies Hunting island State Park and its Hunting island Tower. This tower warned boats away from shallow water and was used as a mapping point between Savannah and Charleston. This lighthouse stands tall at a demanding 132.5 feet.

This tower was specifically built for portability framed with long cast iron sections and bricks. Because of erosion, the lighthouse has been moved. In 1889 heavy beach erosion forced the lighthouse be moved 1.3 miles from its original location. Currently, the island faces heavy erosion that is greatly noticeable even in the last decade.

Along with the Lighthouse, Hunting Island also offers much more like wildlife photo opportunities, crabbing, great sunsets, beach rentals, campground, and much more. Most beach houses are reserved a year in advance.

The marshes here have been used in movies such as Forrest Gump and G.I.Jane. Call 843-838-2011 for more details.