Washington is home to approximately 157 miles of coastal shoreline, and while that pales in comparison to Alaska, Florida, California, and Hawaii, our beautiful state is home to quite a few coastal gems worthy of exploration — including a few dreamy lighthouses you’re sure to fall in love with. While we love Cape Disappointment’s North Head Lighthouse, today, we’re headed to the tallest lighthouse in Washington.

Nestled on Point Chehalis on the southern side of the entrance to Grays Harbor, one of Washington's few outer-coast harbors, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse is a thing of beauty.
Don Barett/Flickr
At 107 feet tall and 123 feet above sea level, not only is Grays Harbor Light the tallest lighthouse in the state of Washington, but it is also the third tallest on the West Coast.
Michael and Sherry Martin/Flickr
First lit in 1898, the lighthouse still houses its original 3rd Order Fresnel clam-shell lens and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
K W Reinsch/Flickr

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Visit for yourself to learn about the lighthouse’s 120 years of service as well as the historic technology that was critical in developing maritime industries in the area.
K W Reinsch/Flickr
Approximately 135 steps lead visitors to the lantern room. Forged of cast-iron and manufactured by Patrick Dundon of San Francisco Boiler Works, the staircase is original — and quite beautiful. The stairs are self-supporting, but the landing brackets are mounted to the walls to support the landings and are surprisingly artistic.
sunrisesoup/Flickr
Once you reach the top, you'll be amazed by the sweeping, 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas. Come on a clear day and you might even be able to spot the top of Mount Rainier to the east. This is truly a photographer’s paradise!
TigerTina301/TripAdvisor
So, what are you waiting for? The Grays Harbor Lighthouse is a slice of paradise the entire family will enjoy — from your five-year-old child who enjoys running up stairs and spotting boats to your history buff parents.
Mark/Flickr

Address: 1020 W Ocean Avenue, Westport, WA, 98595

Admission to the Grays Harbor Lighthouse is just $5 for all climbers. Active duty members and retirees of the United States Coast Guard receive free admission and United States military members of all branches, active or retired, receive admission for just $4. The lighthouse is open Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in September, Thursday through Monday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in October and from February through May 31, and daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June through August. The lighthouse is open by appointment only in November and closed in December and January. For more information, click here.

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