The stunning views from the top of the Key West Lighthouse are a sight to behold. With a climb of 88 iron steps, visitors find themselves perched atop the 18th-century structure, taking in the expansive, sweeping views of the surrounding area. Initially built in 1847, this lighthouse served as a beacon of safety for countless ships entering the port, warning them away from hazardous reefs. Today, adventurous travelers can take on the challenge of scaling this historic structure to experience a bird's eye view of Key West like no other.

The observation platform offers an unparalleled view of the town's famous sunsets, making it the perfect spot to catch the sun as it disappears below the horizon. For more than 100 years, lighthouse keepers kept watch from the top of this tower, ensuring the safety of sailors and the preservation of the historic structure. Now, visitors worldwide can follow in their footsteps and experience the thrill of climbing to the top of this iconic Key West landmark.

How Do You Get To The Key West Lighthouse?

Key West lighthouse, dry tortugas national park aerial view
  • The Key West Lighthouse is centrally located.
  • Tourists can also explore the Hemingway Home Museum right next door.
  • Tours are offered at the lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum.

For those who want to climb to the top of the Key West lighthouse, this attraction is located close to the center of the main town. Oddly enough, travelers can climb the lighthouse without getting sandy or walking a great distance. Location-wise, tourists can find the Key West Lighthouse just across from the Hemingway Home and Museum, making it a perfect next-stop for those wanting to absorb the history of Florida.

Furthermore, this lighthouse is also close to the Douglas House and La Te Da, both perfect choices to stay at for people wanting a view of the lighthouse. Since Key West is a pretty small place, everything is centrally located. This destination is ideal for people on bikes or scooters or traveling by foot from a hotel or Airbnb.

Can You Climb The Key West Lighthouse?

When it comes to who can climb the Key West Lighthouse, it's for everybody! This tourist attraction and piece of history is open to all who wish to experience it. Tickets for the museum and lighthouse are fairly cheap, with student discounts. Here are what the current admission prices look like for 2023:

  • Adults: $17 ($15.50 online)
  • Senior/Local/College ID/Retired Military: $13 ($11.50 online)

So, an adventurous climb into the lighthouse won't break the bank.

Related: 10 Best Florida Resorts To Visit This Winter

When Is The Key West Lighthouse Open?

The Key West Lighthouse, Key West, Florida Keys
Photo by Linda Gillotti on Unsplash
The Key West Lighthouse, Key West, Florida Keys
  • Hours: Seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Guests can expect the lighthouse to be open seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Because the town of Key West values tourism and history learning opportunities, there are also tours visitors can take to the fully restored Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum.

It's safe to assume guests need a couple of hours to finish everything here. The views of the entire port of Key West, along with the surrounding architecture and nature, are enough to take one's breath away.

Mallory Square is another must-see for people in Key West, with these ten things to do being perfect for any traveler. Uncovering the charm of Key West by visiting Duval Street and beyond will also get everyone on their feet and out into the tropical air.

When Is The Best Time To Climb The Key West Lighthouse?

Aerial view of Key West, Florida
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Aerial view of Key West, Florida
  • Visitors usually prefer to climb the Key West Lighthouse in the earlier morning.
  • The weather in Key West is best between December and March.
  • The lighthouse closes at 5:00 PM, so climbers must be done by then.

When it comes to the best time to climb the Key West Lighthouse, this depends on everyone's schedule. Generally, previous guests of the historic landmark recommend going earlier in the morning. Because Florida afternoons can become hot any time of the year, catching the climb at a less warm, difficult-to-maneuver time is always good. Many also consider Key West, Florida, magical during the winter, with its endless beaches, festivals, tourist hot spots, and more comfortable weather.

Related: Relax And Unwind At These 10 Top-Rated Key West Resorts

As mentioned before, this lighthouse opens at 10:00 AM daily. That means people can begin their journey at the opening before the sun's heat begins taking full effect. Luckily, Key West has periods of the year that allow people to enjoy outdoor places anytime during the day. For example, if someone wants to spend December through March in Key West, they can climb the lighthouse any time during the day.

The weather will be much more pleasant in the winter and spring in Key West, so that's the best time to go if tourists want to spend the most time outdoors. If visiting outside of summer, these ten top activities in Key West during the winter may be worth considering.

If someone wants to adventure in Key West, it's best to book a trip when the weather is better in the winter and spring.

Why Is The Key West Lighthouse Not On The Water?

Sunset views in Key West
Photo by Jonathan Wheeler on Unsplash
Amazing sunset views from Smathers Beach in Key West

One of the most surprising things for visitors to the Key West Lighthouse is its location. Since the Florida Keys are often underwater, this caused the original construction to take place further inland. On top of that, the original lighthouse in Key West was built in 1825, closer to the shore on Whitehead Point, but was destroyed by a hurricane in 1846.

The new (and still standing) lighthouse that guests can climb was created in 1847 to withstand hurricanes and did not have the same proximity to the water as the original version. That has kept it from toppling into the water for decades, so that helps explain why it's toward the center of town.

This lighthouse's most critical role throughout Key West's history was guiding ships through the water of the nearby port, so its structural integrity was a huge factor during the rebuilding. This lighthouse is also featured on many of these ten unique Key West tours, which are definitely worth the money.