Gay Head Light, also known as Aquinnah Light, is a renowned and picturesque lighthouse located in Aquinnah, Massachusetts. Built in 1799, it is the first lighthouse on Martha's Vineyard and is open seasonally for tours. This quaint brick beacon has a rich history and is a significant tourist attraction on the island. With its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the cliffs and ocean, Gay Head Light provides a memorable experience for visitors. Despite its age, the lighthouse continues to stand proudly and represents the fascinating history of the native indigenous people. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking a beautiful spot to explore, Gay Head Light is a must-visit destination on Martha's Vineyard.
![](https://static.where-e.com/United_States/Massachusetts/Dukes_County/Gay-Head-Light_d3dae5bbef5a709cc44a93270769d94e.jpg)
Amenities and More
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Good for kids
Reviews
Incredible experience. For a nominal fee, you can walk all the way up the spiral staircase to inside and outside the top... even by the lamp of this still working lighthouse! Guides at the bottom of the structure were very informative (thanks Rodeo) about it's history, and the project of moving it in 2015 due to erosion concerns.
Visiting the historic Gay Head Lighthouse in Martha's Vineyard was an unforgettable experience that I'll treasure forever. The lighthouse's rich history and stunning architecture are truly awe-inspiring. Despite my fear of heights, I mustered the courage to climb, and the breathtaking view from the top made it all worthwhile. The panoramic vista of the coastline and the endless ocean stretched out before me, leaving me in absolute wonder. This landmark is a testament to human achievement and nature's beauty, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting Martha's Vineyard.
The first lighthouse on Martha's Vinyard. Built in 1799 I was moved over the years closer inland due to erosion on Aquinnah cliffs. I was there for the first time last weekend and luckily it was open for tours. It's $6 to go up inside of the lighthouse where you can walk up the narrow spiral staircase a few levelsv to where you can walk out on the balcony to get a 360° view of Martha's Vineyard. You are also allowed to go up to the latern room where you can it spin and emit lights alerting boats of land.
If you are going to the Vineyard you must travel to Aquinnah to see the light house. The cliffs are incredible with endless beaches. Highly recommend.
Fantastic views at the top of this lighthouse. Be careful when climbing to the top. Stairs are a little narrow at the top.
Small lighthouse but there is a good view out over the water.
The views are breathtaking. The shops were open, we spend 1/2 a day walking in the beach and taking in the views. The light house was closed but it’s great to take pictures in front of. One of my favorite days in Martha Vineyard. Definitely check it out and bring your walking shoes.
Not much to see really. Small, still active/used. Part of a whole 'area'. There are the bluffs and shops. 1 restaurant. If light house closes, an hour and a half tops. Public bus stops right there. No need to take a car.
Visiting the historic Gay Head Lighthouse in Martha's Vineyard was an unforgettable experience that I'll treasure forever. The lighthouse's rich history and stunning architecture are truly awe-inspiring. Despite my fear of heights, I mustered the courage to climb, and the breathtaking view from the top made it all worthwhile. The panoramic vista of the coastline and the endless ocean stretched out before me, leaving me in absolute wonder. This landmark is a testament to human achievement and nature's beauty, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting Martha's Vineyard.
Incredible experience. For a nominal fee, you can walk all the way up the spiral staircase to inside and outside the top... even by the lamp of this still working lighthouse! Guides at the bottom of the structure were very informative (thanks Rodeo) about it's history, and the project of moving it in 2015 due to erosion concerns.
Location
15 Aquinnah Cir, Aquinnah, MA 02535, United States
Hours
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Monday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Tuesday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Wednesday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Thursday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Friday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Saturday
10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
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Sunday
08:00 AM - 05:30 PM
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