Coastal Sites: 3 Lighthouses in Mississippi
While Mississippi has fewer lighthouses than other coastal states, they hold a significant place in the region's maritime history. These structures have guided ships and boats through the waters of the Mississippi River, the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River Delta.
Check out a few Magnolia State lighthouses to visit from private boat lift rentals or marinas.
Biloxi Lighthouse
One of the most iconic lighthouses in Mississippi, the Biloxi Lighthouse was constructed in 1848. It’s one of the few remaining cast-iron lighthouses in the United States. The 65-foot-tall lighthouse was built to help guide vessels navigating the waters of the Mississippi Sound. You'll find it near Biloxi Beach on the Gulf of Mexico.
Over the years, it has survived numerous hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused severe damage to the surrounding area but left the lighthouse standing. The Biloxi Lighthouse is notable not only for its historical significance but also because it was operated by female keepers for much of its early history. It's open to the public, and you can climb the 57 steps to the top.
Ship Island Lighthouse
Another important lighthouse to visit from private boat docks for rent is the Ship Island Lighthouse. Located near Gulfport, it was originally constructed in 1853 on the western tip of Ship Island, one of the Mississippi Barrier Islands. The lighthouse was a critical guide for ships entering the Mississippi Sound from the Gulf of Mexico.
Unfortunately, the original structure was destroyed by a hurricane in 1901, and a new lighthouse was built in 1904. However, this second lighthouse also met its demise during a hurricane in 1969. In 1999, efforts to restore the lighthouse began, and a replica was completed in 2018, honoring the island's maritime history.
Round Island Lighthouse
Round Island Lighthouse was first built in 1833 on Round Island, near Pascagoula. Like many lighthouses on the Gulf Coast, it was repeatedly damaged by hurricanes. In 1859, a new brick structure replaced the original, which remained in service until 1944, when it was decommissioned.
The structure was heavily damaged by Hurricane Georges in 1998, leading to a restoration effort. In 2010, the lighthouse was relocated to the mainland in Pascagoula and was fully restored in 2014 (including being topped with the original lantern gallery). It’s an excellent spot to visit from private boat slips for rent.
The next time you’re searching for places to check out from marinas or private boat docks for rent, add some of these beacons to your GPS. Let us know your favorites. Happy boating!
