The St. Simons Island Lighthouse

Guiding the Golden Isles: The St. Simons Island Lighthouse

Step aboard the Emmaline with Anchor Excursion boat tours and set sail to one of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks—the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. This timeless beacon on the Georgia Coast overlooks the vast waters of St. Simons Sound and has guided mariners safely since 1810, standing as a testament to resilience, maritime history, and coastal beauty.

A Legacy of Light: The History of St. Simons Island Lighthouse
The original St. Simons Lighthouse, built in 1810, was tragically destroyed during the Civil War in 1862 by retreating Confederate forces to prevent its use by Union troops. In 1872, the current 104-foot lighthouse was constructed, featuring a third-order Fresnel lens that still casts its beam 23 miles out to sea.

Unlike traditional lighthouses that flash, the St. Simons Lighthouse emits a continuous, steady light, serving as a trusted navigational aid for ships entering the St. Simons Sound and Brunswick Harbor.

The lighthouse is also steeped in local lore. Some say the ghost of Frederick Osborne, a former keeper killed in a dispute, still walks the tower at night adding a touch of mystery to its storied past.

From the Water: A Lighthouse View Like No Other
Aboard the Emmaline, visitors enjoy a breathtaking view of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse from the water. As the boat glides through St. Simons Sound, passengers witness:

-Expansive salt marshes teeming with wildlife
-Rolling dunes and golden beaches of the Georgia coast
-Playful dolphins and diving seabirds along the waterway
-The lighthouse stands tall at the edge of Neptune Park, a striking contrast against the blue sky and swaying coastal trees. From the boat, you’ll see why this beacon has been a sailor’s guide for over 150 years.

Explore History Up Close
For those who want to step inside history, the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum offers a chance to climb the 129 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the Golden Isles. Inside, exhibits share stories of Georgia’s maritime past, lighthouse keepers, and naval battles that shaped the region.

Set Sail for Adventure
Join Anchor Excursion boat tours for an unforgettable maritime history experience. See the St. Simons Island Lighthouse as early mariners once did—from the water—and enjoy the beauty of Georgia’s coastal waterways.

Book your Golden Isles History and Eco-tour today!