GALLERY: Hunting Island Lighthouse / State Park – A View from the Top in South Carolina
Located 20 miles east of Beaufort, lies the scenic natural wonder of the Lowcountry, Hunting Island State Park. With acres of forest and wildlife, miles of open beachfront, picnic areas, camping options, cabins, a majestic view of the sunset, gift shop and the only lighthouse in the state of South Carolina where you can walk up, Hunting Island State Park offers the total family package.
Fee spoiler alert: There is an admission of $5.00 a person (unless you have an Annual Palmetto Passport) and $2.00 fee to walk up the Lighthouse
The Lighthouse is 185 steps to the top and 132 feet above sea level with the ability to see up to 40 miles on a clear day and what a view it is.
Come along with us on a virtual trip as we provide you pictures and some fun facts to entice you to pack the car and make a great day or overnight trip. (P.S. – Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort is a stunning place to watch the sunrise and sunset).
The original brick lighthouse was constructed between 1857-1859 on the North end of the Island standing at 95′ tall.
In 1861, the lighthouse was destroyed by the Confederates so the Union would not be able to use the light against them.
Stairwell to the top
The new lighthouse was build and completed in two years in 1875. For all the hard work and upkeep of the lighthouse, keepers and assistants earned $500-$700 annually.
In 1889, due the ocean water reaching the base of the lighthouse, it was dismantled and moved 1 1/4 miles southwest. It took only 4 months to rebuild.
Reflection of the lighthouse while looking down
View to the North
View straight out to the oceanfront
South side view
Lighthouse base view
Let us take a walk on the beach together.
Sand Art
Keep our parks clean
Visitors Center Entrance way
Bonus: Sunset in downtown Beaufort, South Carolina
If this doesn’t warm your spirits and get your yearning for the great outdoors, then I don’t know what will.
Make a plan to explore South Carolina and see one of the most beautiful state parks.
Charleston Daily
Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.
Thanks for the nudge! We did the day trip to Hunting Island today and loved every minute.
Life is one adventure at a time. So glad you made it today Joan. Mark