Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse: Florida’s Towering Sentinel

Rising high above the dunes just south of Daytona Beach, a graceful red brick tower has guided mariners for well over a century. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Florida and one of the tallest in the nation, a soaring landmark with a sweeping view.

Climb to the Top

Visitors who climb the lighthouse’s spiral staircase, more than two hundred steps, are rewarded with a panoramic view of the inlet, the Atlantic, and the coastline stretching for miles. First lit in 1887, the tower still stands proud and beautifully preserved.

A Living Museum

The surrounding light station is one of the most complete in the country, with the keepers’ dwellings restored and filled with exhibits on lighthouse life and maritime history. A collection of giant historic lenses gleams in a dedicated museum, telling the story of how these beacons saved countless ships.

History and Views

Strolling the shaded grounds among the brick buildings feels like stepping back in time, and the views from the gallery are unforgettable, especially at sunrise. It is a favorite stop for families, history lovers, and photographers alike.

Bring your camera and comfortable shoes for the climb. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse offers history, beauty, and the best view on this stretch of the Florida coast.