Port Isabel Lighthouse

Port Isabel Lighthouse

Soak up some local history at the Port Isabel Lighthouse, the only remaining Texas Coastal Lighthouse open to the public. Climb 72 feet and enjoy sweeping island views, as well as historic education along the way.

This lighthouse was first built in 1852 to guide ships through the Brazos Santiago Pass to Port Isabel, the 57' guiding tower standing the test of time for over a century. The heavy brick walls have seen an expansive history of various impending battles, rough seaside weather, and a few shipwrecks along the way.

During your visit, your group will be able to climb 75 winding stairs to the 50-foot perch, then climb 3 small ladders to the top if they wish. Take a self-guided tour of the lighthouse, the Lighthouse Keeper's cottage, and the Port Isabel Visitor Center, then spend some time just enjoying the grassy grounds below, perfect for scenic viewing or picnicking.

To extend your historical education try visiting the Port Isabel Historic Museum and/or Treasures of the Gulf Museum.