The Leftside Old Lighthouse

Description

Standing as a testament to maritime history, The Leftside Old Lighthouse has been keeping watch over treacherous waters since the late 1800s. Y’know, it’s funny – the first time I saw this beauty, I couldn’t help but be struck by its imposing yet graceful presence against the coastal backdrop. The weathered stone structure rises 85 feet into the air, its classic cylindrical form topped by that distinctive lantern room that’s caught the attention of photographers and history buffs for generations.

Key Features

• Original Fresnel lens still intact and occasionally demonstrated during special tours
• Spiral iron staircase with 167 steps to the observation deck
• Historic keeper’s quarters featuring period-accurate furnishings
• Stunning panoramic views of the coastline from the top gallery
• Protected nesting grounds for local seabirds around the base
• Fascinating exhibition room showcasing maritime artifacts and rescue stories
• Original fog horn mechanism on display
• Beautifully preserved lighthouse keeper’s garden
• Interactive educational displays about lighthouse operation
• Memorial wall honoring past lighthouse keepers

Best Time to Visit

I’ve visited this lighthouse in all seasons, and let me tell ya – each offers something special. But if you’re asking me for the sweet spot, I’d say late spring through early fall is absolutely magical. The weather’s typically more stable then, and the wildflowers around the base put on quite a show from May through July. Summer brings the clearest skies for those panoramic views, though I personally love those moody autumn days when the waves crash dramatically against the rocks below.

How to Get There

Getting to The Leftside Old Lighthouse is part of the adventure! The closest parking area is about a quarter-mile away, and from there you’ll follow a well-marked coastal path. Gotta warn ya though – it can get pretty windy, and the trail’s a bit steep in places. If you’re coming by public transport, catch the coastal shuttle from the main town – it runs every hour during peak season and every two hours in off-peak months. Just remember to check the last return time – you don’t wanna get stuck out here after dark (though the sunset views are pretty spectacular).

Tips for Visiting

Listen up, ’cause these tips come from someone who’s made every rookie mistake in the book! First off, wear sturdy shoes – those spiral stairs and the approach path can be slippery. Bring a windbreaker even on sunny days – trust me on this one. The wind up top can be fierce!

Book your tour in advance during peak season – they limit the number of visitors per day to preserve the structure. If you’re into photography, morning light tends to be best for exterior shots, while late afternoon sun creates amazing effects through the lantern room windows.

And here’s something most guidebooks won’t tell you – the best views aren’t actually from the top, but from the second-highest gallery. That’s where you’ll get the perfect balance of height and perspective without the safety railings getting in your photos.

Remember to give yourself at least two hours to really soak in the experience. The exhibits are fascinating, and you’ll want time to explore the keeper’s quarters. Oh, and bring cash – the small gift shop doesn’t always have reliable card service, and their lighthouse-themed cookies are surprisingly good!

Lastly, if you’re visiting between March and July, bring binoculars – there’s a colony of puffins that nests nearby, and watching them go about their business is pure entertainment. Just don’t get too close to the cliff edges while bird-watching!

Location

Places to Stay Near The Leftside Old Lighthouse

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides