Eastern Point Lighthouse
Eastern Point Lighthouse
Eastern Point Lighthouse
4
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Serving as a guide to ships entering the scenic and commercial Gloucester harbor from the Atlantic Ocean, this 36-foot tall cylindrical brick tower was built in 1832 and automated in 1986.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.0
224 reviews
Excellent
107
Very good
73
Average
26
Poor
13
Terrible
5
jaybeeFL
Palm Harbor, FL3,425 contributions
Aug 2021
Plug it into your GPS and don't let the discouraging "Private Road" signs scare you off. The lighthouse is just beyond the yacht club with plenty of parking and great views of the lighthouse, breakwall and wonderful sunsets. Good photo ops.
Written 19 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jenn M
Morgantown, PA96 contributions
Jul 2021
One of the best light houses of course. There is a water break with rocks, not too bad. They are relatively flat with some small gaps. Just need to pay attention when walking on them. I do think my pics from the coast are better.
Written 25 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1RaiderFan
Schenectady, NY726 contributions
Nov 2022 • Family
Decided to go after reading reviews and seeing the walkway from our whale watch. Very tricky to get there as you pass. Lots of signs that claim you can’t go any further but they’re only for the properties around it. There is a small lot to the right of the lighthouse. That’s where you park. Make your way on a small trail up on the rocks and then you can follow it the whole way out. Very cool and lots of opportunities for photos.
Written 31 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trish W
McMurray, PA1,060 contributions
Sept 2022 • Couples
This is a lovely shore view drive and there is a small parking lot when you get to the lighthouse. Follow the path to the left along the fence to reach the jetty. From the path by the fence you can get a photo of the lighthouse without the tower that sort of spoils the view. You can walk out the jetty but it is extremely rocky. We had a lovely time just driving in and walking out to the beginning of the jetty.
Written 27 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BeforeSunrise
South Hamilton, MA234 contributions
Mar 2019 • Family
First, let's get out of the way how to get here. IGNORE all the signs on the road to the lighthouse. They lie. The road is not private. The lighthouse is a Mass Audubon property and they cannot stop you from getting to it. Just drive. And enjoy looking both at the mansions that don't want you there as well as their majestic view of Gloucester Harbor.
Then, when you get there, there's room for about 6-8 cars to park. It's small. It's quaint. But it's quintessential New England without the crowds you'd have for the similar experience in downtown Rockport. Bring waterproof shoes and a windbreaker and enjoy walking on the rocky beach and out the thin bar (not sure the technical name for this?) into the harbor. Breathe. Exhale. Enjoy.
The lighthouse itself is on the smaller side and under renovation, so it's not accessible up close. But, it is a quaint backdrop for this secret adventure.
On your way to/from the lighthouse stop by the artist community @ Rocky Neck and the antique/vintage stores along East Main St and make an afternoon out of this quieter stretch of Gloucester.
Then, when you get there, there's room for about 6-8 cars to park. It's small. It's quaint. But it's quintessential New England without the crowds you'd have for the similar experience in downtown Rockport. Bring waterproof shoes and a windbreaker and enjoy walking on the rocky beach and out the thin bar (not sure the technical name for this?) into the harbor. Breathe. Exhale. Enjoy.
The lighthouse itself is on the smaller side and under renovation, so it's not accessible up close. But, it is a quaint backdrop for this secret adventure.
On your way to/from the lighthouse stop by the artist community @ Rocky Neck and the antique/vintage stores along East Main St and make an afternoon out of this quieter stretch of Gloucester.
Written 25 March 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TNHarleyChick
Crossville, TN1,403 contributions
Sept 2016 • Couples
While on our trip up the east coast to see lighthouses, the Eastern Point Lighthouse was at the top of my list! I've seen it so many times in photography that I wanted to see it in person. So we programmed the address into the GPS of our phone.....
Unfortunately, as we were following the GPS directions, we kept seeing signs that said "private" and "yacht club members only" and "no trespassing" and various other signs that honestly made us question if we were going the right way. But we could see on the GPS that we were headed for the lighthouse, so we kept going. We were kinds nervous about ignoring the signs, but I figured the worst that could happen would be for someone to run us off. Eventually, we ended up right at the lighthouse! Then.....
There's a very small gravel parking lot, but we were able to find someone that was leaving. The problem is that the lot is so small, it's hard to back out, pass, and let another car in. But we managed.
There's a sign on the fence that says this is a private residence and to respect their privacy. You can NOT get to the lighthouse. In fact, the only way to actually see all of the lighthouse is to go on a hike. If you are handicapped or have limited mobility, I'm afraid you won't be able to leave the parking lot. More on that later.
In the parking lot near the "private residence" warning sign, we noticed a small box that asked for a $10 donation for parking. This was not posted on any other area that I could see. In fact, I imagine many people don't even notice it, depending on where in the lot they park. I'm assuming this is a voluntary parking fee and not mandatory? Anyway, my issue is....who gets the money? Who owns that box and collects the money? It wasn't clear.
Now, to see the entire lighthouse, you must take a hike. There is a path around the edge of fence of the "private residence" towards the water. Just keep following that path. I had some issues with the path being extremely narrow (see pics) and the weeds rubbing my legs. In fact, I had bug bites or a rash break out after we left. I also kept wondering what kind of animals could be hiding in all that vegetation? Eeek! I can definitely advise that you MUST keep an eye on where you're going cause there are roots and even metal pieces of stuff (see pics) that you can easily trip over.
Then the winding trail turns into a climbing expedition. I had knee surgery in the past, but I made it just fine. I'm okay climbing up, but not so sturdy on my feet climbing down. With hubby's help, I made it. After hiking and climbing, then you have to walk out across rocks that have cracks in between them (see pics). It's kinda scary and you MUST make sure you look down at all times.
Warning: While we were there, a lady was doing something on her phone instead of watching where she was walking. She fell into one of those cracks between the rocks, threw her cell phone, and her leg got stuck. She finally got out, but I was scared she had broken her leg. So please watch your step!
The further you walk, the view of the lighthouse is better. The ugly rusty fence seems to disappear as the distance increases. You'll see in the attached pics.
TIP: There is ANOTHER light house at the very end of these rocks. We honestly didn't realize until days later when we were looking at a map of lighthouses and said....but wait, we were right there! Yeah, we didn't walk all the way to the end. Ugh! Oh, also, there's a view of downtown Boston skyline from here.
After taking pics (see attached pics), we made the trek back to the parking lot. As I mentioned earlier, the path is small. So when you meet another couple (or family), someone has to give. There's not enough room to pass. So just be prepared for this if you go!
Despite the worries of trespassing on a private road, confusion about parking, and crazy hike.....I'd go back again! It's worth it!
Unfortunately, as we were following the GPS directions, we kept seeing signs that said "private" and "yacht club members only" and "no trespassing" and various other signs that honestly made us question if we were going the right way. But we could see on the GPS that we were headed for the lighthouse, so we kept going. We were kinds nervous about ignoring the signs, but I figured the worst that could happen would be for someone to run us off. Eventually, we ended up right at the lighthouse! Then.....
There's a very small gravel parking lot, but we were able to find someone that was leaving. The problem is that the lot is so small, it's hard to back out, pass, and let another car in. But we managed.
There's a sign on the fence that says this is a private residence and to respect their privacy. You can NOT get to the lighthouse. In fact, the only way to actually see all of the lighthouse is to go on a hike. If you are handicapped or have limited mobility, I'm afraid you won't be able to leave the parking lot. More on that later.
In the parking lot near the "private residence" warning sign, we noticed a small box that asked for a $10 donation for parking. This was not posted on any other area that I could see. In fact, I imagine many people don't even notice it, depending on where in the lot they park. I'm assuming this is a voluntary parking fee and not mandatory? Anyway, my issue is....who gets the money? Who owns that box and collects the money? It wasn't clear.
Now, to see the entire lighthouse, you must take a hike. There is a path around the edge of fence of the "private residence" towards the water. Just keep following that path. I had some issues with the path being extremely narrow (see pics) and the weeds rubbing my legs. In fact, I had bug bites or a rash break out after we left. I also kept wondering what kind of animals could be hiding in all that vegetation? Eeek! I can definitely advise that you MUST keep an eye on where you're going cause there are roots and even metal pieces of stuff (see pics) that you can easily trip over.
Then the winding trail turns into a climbing expedition. I had knee surgery in the past, but I made it just fine. I'm okay climbing up, but not so sturdy on my feet climbing down. With hubby's help, I made it. After hiking and climbing, then you have to walk out across rocks that have cracks in between them (see pics). It's kinda scary and you MUST make sure you look down at all times.
Warning: While we were there, a lady was doing something on her phone instead of watching where she was walking. She fell into one of those cracks between the rocks, threw her cell phone, and her leg got stuck. She finally got out, but I was scared she had broken her leg. So please watch your step!
The further you walk, the view of the lighthouse is better. The ugly rusty fence seems to disappear as the distance increases. You'll see in the attached pics.
TIP: There is ANOTHER light house at the very end of these rocks. We honestly didn't realize until days later when we were looking at a map of lighthouses and said....but wait, we were right there! Yeah, we didn't walk all the way to the end. Ugh! Oh, also, there's a view of downtown Boston skyline from here.
After taking pics (see attached pics), we made the trek back to the parking lot. As I mentioned earlier, the path is small. So when you meet another couple (or family), someone has to give. There's not enough room to pass. So just be prepared for this if you go!
Despite the worries of trespassing on a private road, confusion about parking, and crazy hike.....I'd go back again! It's worth it!
Written 22 September 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Road11138
Chicopee, Massachusetts1 contribution
A sight not to be missed , guarding the Gloucester inner harbour.On the end of the 1/4 mile long "Dog Bar Breakwater" is a second " Spider lighthouse " . A de- commissioned Coast Guard station is located at Eastern Point , as well as great ocean views and the opportunity to watch Gloucester lobstermen at work.
Written 4 January 2004
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SurgeD
New Bedford, MA30 contributions
Oct 2014 • Solo
A beautiful point of interest that will likely draw some in and others won't get at all. As a photographer I loved it. I wouldn't give it five stars because it is definitely not for everyone.
It's not easy to find because it's in a private part of Gloucester called Eastern Point that has signs advising people to stay out and that the private beaches are only for those living there. It's right next to the Eastern Point Yacht Club with a small granite stone parking area for just a few cars at a time.
If you're looking for something "attraction" worthy this isn't the place. The attraction is simply the lighthouse and the breakwater. It's very rocky with some slippery surfaces and I would imagine very dangerous depending on where you stand. You get there and see the lighthouse.. the breakwater.. and turn around to leave. There aren't any food services, bathrooms, places for the kids to run around.There is no wheelchair ramp. This is a lovely place for someone who wants to relax alone. See the people fishing on the breakwater and watch the sunrise. Examine the amazing textures and morning skies.
For the photographer this is a far more appealing sight. I went out at daybreak (been here a few times before) and walked out onto the slippery rocks. Having a morning with some lovely light and cloud formations was so lucky. It was late fall and the water splashing me along with the morning temps was quite chilly. I broke a couple pieces of equipment slipping while trying to get out to the edge of the water for my photograph. With the tide out I had to climb over some of these large smooth granite rocks to get the ocean spraying the rocks and the morning sun shining on the lighthouse. The water rose quickly so I got covered by some large splashes and feet in the water making it a much more difficult climb back as the water rose. I waited around for about an hour to get different lights, reflections and had a wonderful time where most would have been miserable. I like to think of it as... something not for everyone, just those of us who want a photo with a little more oomph.
For me it was like meditation and a lesson in patience (me, being good at neither). When you can sit alone and wait.. and maybe get the shot or maybe not... but either way you learn to sit quietly and let nature do it's thing just watching the morning sky and ocean sprays.
It's not easy to find because it's in a private part of Gloucester called Eastern Point that has signs advising people to stay out and that the private beaches are only for those living there. It's right next to the Eastern Point Yacht Club with a small granite stone parking area for just a few cars at a time.
If you're looking for something "attraction" worthy this isn't the place. The attraction is simply the lighthouse and the breakwater. It's very rocky with some slippery surfaces and I would imagine very dangerous depending on where you stand. You get there and see the lighthouse.. the breakwater.. and turn around to leave. There aren't any food services, bathrooms, places for the kids to run around.There is no wheelchair ramp. This is a lovely place for someone who wants to relax alone. See the people fishing on the breakwater and watch the sunrise. Examine the amazing textures and morning skies.
For the photographer this is a far more appealing sight. I went out at daybreak (been here a few times before) and walked out onto the slippery rocks. Having a morning with some lovely light and cloud formations was so lucky. It was late fall and the water splashing me along with the morning temps was quite chilly. I broke a couple pieces of equipment slipping while trying to get out to the edge of the water for my photograph. With the tide out I had to climb over some of these large smooth granite rocks to get the ocean spraying the rocks and the morning sun shining on the lighthouse. The water rose quickly so I got covered by some large splashes and feet in the water making it a much more difficult climb back as the water rose. I waited around for about an hour to get different lights, reflections and had a wonderful time where most would have been miserable. I like to think of it as... something not for everyone, just those of us who want a photo with a little more oomph.
For me it was like meditation and a lesson in patience (me, being good at neither). When you can sit alone and wait.. and maybe get the shot or maybe not... but either way you learn to sit quietly and let nature do it's thing just watching the morning sky and ocean sprays.
Written 5 February 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arinei
Mid Coast Maine, ME5 contributions
Sept 2017 • Friends
Five stars is for the lighthouse/jetty. This is absolutely worth the trip. Beautiful views.
Zero stars is for the perfect example of wealth-based entitlement in our backyard. The residents do their best to make you feel like you can't use the roads. There are 'private road', 'residents only' and 'yacht club members only' signs everywhere. The security guard at the entrance will do his best to discourage you, and lecture you about not trespassing on private property. He lied about the parking lot being full, and got very irritated when he couldn't change my mind.
The simple fact, though, is that they can't stop you from using the road. Go and enjoy this incredibly beautiful place before the super-rich residents and their lawyers find a loophole to keep the peasants out.
Zero stars is for the perfect example of wealth-based entitlement in our backyard. The residents do their best to make you feel like you can't use the roads. There are 'private road', 'residents only' and 'yacht club members only' signs everywhere. The security guard at the entrance will do his best to discourage you, and lecture you about not trespassing on private property. He lied about the parking lot being full, and got very irritated when he couldn't change my mind.
The simple fact, though, is that they can't stop you from using the road. Go and enjoy this incredibly beautiful place before the super-rich residents and their lawyers find a loophole to keep the peasants out.
Written 1 October 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RKM1
Shrewsbury, MA63 contributions
Jun 2014 • Family
The way to Eastern Point Lighthouse goes through what appears to be a gated community. There is a security guard at the entrance of the road who just waves Hi as you drive past him.
Once you get there there is a small parking area. I did not had to pay anything as I am Mass Audubon member, otherwise there is a drop box to pay ($10.00) for the parking. The walk to the back side of the light house is not well formed. It is a small trail that is not easy for senior citizens to walk on as it is stony and uneven. But once you get there the view is simply beautiful. There is a very very small beach area where small kids can have some fun. The main attraction though is the stone walk (see picture). We loved the place. My parents had some difficulty getting there but they also felt that it was worth the effort.
Once you get there there is a small parking area. I did not had to pay anything as I am Mass Audubon member, otherwise there is a drop box to pay ($10.00) for the parking. The walk to the back side of the light house is not well formed. It is a small trail that is not easy for senior citizens to walk on as it is stony and uneven. But once you get there the view is simply beautiful. There is a very very small beach area where small kids can have some fun. The main attraction though is the stone walk (see picture). We loved the place. My parents had some difficulty getting there but they also felt that it was worth the effort.
Written 1 July 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there a parking fee for using the car park throughout the year or just in Summer?
Written 28 April 2021
Is the area open for public access? Preferably the Dog Bar Breakwaters area?
Written 11 October 2017
The location is open, however you can't get to the Lighthouse... unless there's a Tour being conducted. we traveled Sept 2017. it it completely fenced off. Don't be discouraged by the private drive-ways to private Housing Communities, once past you will arrive at your destination.
Written 11 October 2017
need phone number for my client to make reservations for the summer of 2017
Written 7 April 2017
I don't know of a phone number... sorry... we drove to this Lighthouse... although we were unable to actually tour it, we were close enough to take photos of it, walk around it. I hope this helps.
Written 11 October 2017
hello,
I am trying to find a phone number for my client to call the eastern point lighthouse for rates and availability this summer. we cannot book a b and b as they are privately owned.
ann
Written 7 April 2017
Eastern Points Lighthouse is the private residence of the local Coast Guard commander and family. It is not open to the public.
Written 8 April 2017
Why is there so much confusion on paid parking, no parking fee. No signs to lead a visitor to the site? Private road signs to discourage? Why make it so difficult for one to enjoy something so historically part of America's?
Written 18 September 2016
i agree with brdhouse: there is a very small rough dirt parking lot with a box to pay for parking (honor system).
Written 11 October 2017
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