Beam Me Up, Carolina

Something bright is on the horizon! National Lighthouse Day is August 7, and there’s no better place to celebrate than the South Carolina coast. Along our state’s 187-mile coastline, you’ll find nearly a dozen historic lighthouses, each with its own reason to shine.

From Hilton Head to Folly Beach, these scenic, storied beacons make for the perfect summer day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you're into breezy beach walks, historic photo ops, or panoramic climbs, these lighthouses offer more than just a pretty view—they're storytellers, shining a light on our state's history and charm one beam at a time.

Morris Island Lighthouse – Folly Beach

• No longer operational, but hauntingly beautiful and photogenic
• Only accessible by boat or a short walk along the beach
• A favorite sunset backdrop and a local favorite for engagement shoots

Charleston Light – Sullivan’s Island

• Built in 1962, it’s the newest of the bunch—and the last major lighthouse built in the United States 
• One of the most technologically advanced of its time
• Unique triangular shape protects it from strong winds and makes it stand out from the crowd

The Bloody Point Lighthouse – Daufuskie Island

• A pair of historic range lights built in 1883 to guide ships past dangerous shoals
• The Bloody Point Lighthouse Museum offers daily tours
• The U.S. Government paid just $425 for the land

Harbour Town Lighthouse – Hilton Head Island

• Technically not a navigational lighthouse, but an iconic red-and-white symbol of the island
• Climb the spiral stairs and explore the museum and killer marina views
• Surrounded by boutiques, restaurants, and the famous Sea Pines golf course

Georgetown Light – North Island near Georgetown

• Oldest active lighthouse in South Carolina, built in 1811
• Reachable by boat tour for a summer adventure
• Quiet, remote beaches nearby are perfect for shelling

Cape Romain Lighthouses – Bulls Island near Awendaw

• Two historic towers (one brick, one cast iron) that showcase the evolution of lighthouse design
• Only viewable via eco-tour or boat excursion to Bulls Island
• Surrounded by the rich wildlife of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge

Whether you’re in it for the views, the history, or just an excuse to explore a new corner of the coast, exploring South Carolina’s lighthouses adds a new layer to any Lowcountry adventure. These structures are more than just beacons—they’re storytellers of storms weathered, shores guarded, and generations passed.

So this National Lighthouse Day, snap the photo, take the boat ride, or climb the stairs…These coastal beacons may no longer guide ships, but they just might guide you to your next unforgettable summer day!

Find more local places to explore this summer at https://guidetosouthcarolina.com/vacation-destinations!