There’s no building that symbolizes Sanibel quite like the Sanibel Island Lighthouse. Formally known as the Sanibel Island Light, the lighthouse has welcomed people to the island for more than 115 years.
The lighthouse stands tall at Point Ybel, the eastern tip of Sanibel. Visible from the Sanibel Causeway, the landmark serves as a beacon for ships and vacationers.
Our family’s first visit to the lighthouse was while biking on Sanibel. Even today, the Sanibel Island lighthouse is our first stop when exploring the island by bike.
Sanibel Island Lighthouse History
The first concept of a lighthouse on the island came in 1833, with Punta Rassa being an important port for cattle exports. It would take more than 50 years for the concept to become reality. In 1883, $50,000 was allocated by Congress to fund the construction of the Sanibel Lighthouse.
It’s also the first lighthouse in Florida north of the Florida Keys.
Construction began in February 1884 and took a few months to complete. While being built, the ship carrying the steel for the structure sank two miles from Sanibel Island. Divers were able to salvage all but two pieces.
The Sanibel Island Lighthouse was lit for the first time on August 20, 1884. Initially, the light was a kerosene oil lamp. It was a slow transition to electricity. In 1923, the lighthouse was converted to acetylene gas.
During World War II the grounds of the lighthouse were used to watch for German U-Boats.
In 1949, the U.S. Coast Guard decided to automate the facility, eliminating the need for a lighthouse keeper. Finally, in 1962, the facility received a modern upgrade: an electrical beacon. The lighthouse’s original lens was donated to the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, where you can find it today.
The lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The United States Coast Guard still manages the lighthouse, but the rest of the property is controlled by the City of Sanibel.
Watch: The Florida Channel’s interview with a former Sanibel Lighthouse resident.
The Lighthouse Today
Today, the Sanibel Island Lighthouse grounds have been transformed into a public park. There’s ample bike and car parking for those looking to spend the day on the most popular of the island’s public beaches: Sanibel Lighthouse Beach.
Like much of the area, the Sanibel Island Lighthouse was impacted by Hurricane Ian in September 2022, with the storm destroying the historic residence. One of the four legs was also lost, yet the lighthouse remained. Long a symbol of the island, the lighthouse’s resilience became symbolic of the area’s continued recovery from Hurricane Ian, and later Milton in 2024.
The lighthouse remains a draw for tourists and is one of the most photographed areas of the island. If you happen to stop by the lighthouse or Sanibel Lighthouse Beach, don’t forget to stop by Grandma Dot’s. You’ll be glad you did.
Sanibel Island Lighthouse Facts
- Managed by the U.S. Coast Guard – USCG no. 3-1245
- 98 Feet Tall
- Constructed in 1884
- Automated in 1949
- Electrified in 1962
- Eight lighthouse keepers (1884-1949)
- Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974
Further reading
