Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Day Trip: Everything You Need to Know

I recently took a Ponce Inlet Lighthouse day trip and loved it! The tallest lighthouse in Florida and one of the tallest in the United States, this day trip offers views, history, and my favorite, that salty ocean air.

It was a near perfect day in March when I went on my Ponce Inlet Lighthouse day trip. The skies were clear, the air temperature wasn’t too hot, but it was extremely windy! And of course, at the top of the lighthouse, it only got windier.

While I expected beautiful views, I also got history, which was such a nice bonus. I’ll share my experience as well as tips for how to get there, and other practical advice so you can enjoy your trip!

How to Get to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

One great thing about the tallest Lighthouse in Florida is it can be a great day trip from Orlando or St. Augustine! Of course, being right next to Daytona Beach it’s an easy half day visit and would be a great addition to a Daytona itinerary.

Please note, approximate drive times below do not account for traffic. Keep that in mind and try to avoid peak travel times.

From Orlando

From Orlando, you’ll take I-4 east toward Daytona, then head south for a short time on I-95. Take the exit for Port Orange, head east on Dunlawton and when you hit A1A with only the beach ahead, turn right. You’ll head all the way to the end before you finally get to the lighthouse.

Approximate Drive Time from Orlando: 1 hour and 15 minutes

From St. Augustine or Daytona Beach

From St. Augustine or Daytona, head south on I-95 to Port Orange. Turn left to go east on Dunlawton and once you’ve dead-ended, you’ll turn right on A1A. The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse sits at the end of the peninsula, so you’ll be driving for a bit along A1A. If you’re staying at Daytona Beach, just take A1A south.

Approximate Drive Time from St. Augustine: 1 hour and 31 minutes

For a mini road trip, consider taking A1A one way. For example, take the fastest route to the lighthouse, then the slow way up through A1A (the beach road). Heading to St. Augustine from the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, you will pass Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach (visit the Casements), Flagler Beach (a cute beach town for lunch), Washington Oaks State Park (rocks on the beach or nature trails), Fort Matanzas National Monument, ending at St. Augustine Beach.

Tip: Google Maps takes you near the lighthouse, but not right to the parking lot. It takes you to the boat parking area for the inlet (the boat parking lot will be on the right and you’ll see the inlet on the left). So if you use Google Maps, keep driving straight once it gives the arrived signal. As you drive straight the road will wind to the right and the lighthouse parking lot will be on the right.

Heading to these Florida cities and looking for day trip ideas? Check out these posts to gather ideas for your Florida getaway:
Orlando – 29 Best Day Trips from Orlando (with Driving Times)
St. Augustine – 21+ Best Day Trips from St. Augustine: Beaches, Springs, Small Towns & More
Daytona Beach – A Floridian’s Guide to the Best Day Trips from Daytona Beach

My Experience at the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

I arrived at the parking lot of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse around 11AM on a Friday. Despite it being a weekday, it was quite busy since it was spring break. I purchased my ticket inside the gift shop and decided to get the full historical sites ticket. If you only want to climb the lighthouse, that is a cheaper ticket, but overall this is not an expensive activity.

Pacetti Hotel

The girl at the register said there was a guided tour of the Pacetti Hotel taking place at 11AM (this looks to be available on Fridays at 11AM only, but check their site to confirm). I was late for it, but she assured me I could join in if I headed straight there. The former hotel was across the street from the parking lot, but if you utilize the crosswalk and then follow the sidewalk and signs, it’s easy enough to find.

The area back here is beautiful and it offers such gorgeous views of the inlet, rivers, and sandbars. I made my way to the main entrance and there was a greeter at the door who confirmed I could join the tour.

The lady who did the tour took us from room to room explaining the history and really offered insight into what life was like back then. For example, the family who lived here had to take a boat six miles for the doctor. It was years before a road was built connecting it to Daytona Beach.

I especially enjoyed the stories of Jesse Linzy, known as the gentle giant. He stood at 6’8, cut boots open so he could have shoes, and his original bed is on display. Spoiler alert, it’s way too small!

The tour lasted until 12PM, so an hour in total if you’re not late. I loved the views of the inlet in each of the rooms. It added a beauty to this historical tour.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Climb

Once the tour finished, I headed back across the street to climb the lighthouse. I was so sore from that week’s workouts that this was probably not the best activity to be doing on my sore legs.

Despite the tiredness in my legs, I was so happy at how easy it felt to climb this lighthouse. After health challenges recently, and the humble pie I ate doing the Sulphur Mountain hike and the Lake Agnes Tea House hike in Banff, I felt so encouraged to be regaining some fitness. Don’t get me wrong, my heart rate increased and there were momentary breaks to be had, but I struggled way, way less than I have in recent history.

The sign on the bottom stated to only let people pass on the flat areas, and NOT on the steps themselves. There are flat areas at each level, so this is actually very easy and made it a safe climb and descent.

The last staircase at the top was the most narrow and small, but thankfully it’s only at the end. The majority of the stairs are narrow (by the rail) to larger (by the wall) and with no one trying to pass you on the stairs, it’s not too bad.

Geviti has been a huge help in my road to recovery. If you want to learn more, read my full review: Geviti Review: My Experience with this Personalized Health Program

Top of the Lighthouse

Is a Ponce Inlet Lighthouse day trip complete without views from the top? For me, no! However, if you’re afraid of heights there’s plenty of history on the ground which I’ll discuss next.

The wind hit me immediately and since it’s spring, the wind offered cool air from the cold ocean. Despite that, I didn’t get truly cold. Of course, the wind was howling except for the small area around the top that faced south and was shielded from the wind.

The first time I ever climbed the lighthouse it was a winter day with clouds. While it was windy that day as well, this day was beautiful and clear! I had no issues seeing in all directions and the views did not disappoint!

There is a room at the top with some history and insight, but I didn’t stick around to read it. After enjoying the views for a while, I headed down.

The Descent

While the climb down is easier on the heart-rate, it’s scarier overall. I’m not afraid of heights, but it has taken me years to get my knee stronger after fracturing it. So the descent is something I took much more care with.

The first set of stairs down is the most narrow. Once they were clear, I put my phone and camera in my backpack and headed down. Just as with the climb, you only pass others on the level areas. Heading down is not difficult, but I did see some people take a sideways step approach.

No one was running down the stairs since they are more narrow steps, but most were able to keep a good pace. While I was cautious and ensured my hands were free to hold the railing, it never felt dangerous.

The photo I took at the top before heading down was taken at 12:35PM and the photo I have at the bottom was taken at 12:40PM. I did have to pause multiple times on the way down for other climbers, but that should give an indication of how approachable the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse climb can be.

And if you need more time, simply rest longer at the level areas. There’s no need to rush!

Self-Guided History Tour

When you purchase your ticket, they offer a brochure with a map of the grounds. It tells you what each building or area represents and a quick summary. While I enjoy history, I’m not a museum girl. I don’t like to read each sign.

I’m more of a look around, maybe read a tiny bit, then look around some more and move on. Generally, I much prefer listening to someone talk. The good news is there is a video room that offers some of the history and it’s the first stop on the self-guided tour. The video replays every 20 minutes I believe, but there is a photo PowerPoint in between if you decide to wait.

I really enjoyed the video, seeing the rafts Cubans used to escape that had washed ashore nearby, walking some of the older homes, and seeing the lighthouse prisms that were collected in one area.

I took about an hour for the self-guided tour which includes the video and me stopping to take photos. If you’re a reader, you could spend longer.

What to Expect on Your Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Visit

Climbing

The climb does not take long, but you can rest at the level areas for as long as needed. However, once you are climbing, it’s good to finish each section before resting as no one should be passing on the stairs.

There is a rail to hold onto on one side and a wall on the other. The steps are narrow near the railing but increase in size by the wall. This allows you to choose the best area for you to step. Going up it’s not an issue, but coming down some people chose to turn sideways.

The Top and Views

My first visit was on a cloudy day, but the views were still impressive. Of course, on a clear day like my recent visit, the views are stunning!

At the top, there is room for a good amount of people, but the depth is only two people deep. Meaning, I had to stand close to the railing or the wall if someone wanted to get by.

Of course by railing, I don’t mean there is one simple rail between me and falling. There is actually more of a wire enclosure and railing system, so I felt safe.

There is a room at the top with some panels you can read if you’re interested. The door is also held open by a strong chain, so there was no concern of the wind slamming it shut.

The Museum

Included with your climb ticket is the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse museum (the Pacetti Hotel is extra). On the grounds below the Lighthouse are small historical buildings and you can enjoy a self-guided tour.

If you’re not into reading a bunch of signs like me, there is a video in the first stop which offers a good overview!

After the video, I used the brochure they provided and explored the other historical buildings and displays.

Pacetti Hotel

I elected to also do the Pacetti Hotel since they had a tour available when I arrived. Since I did both the Lighthouse and Pacetti Hotel I paid closer to $12.

I really enjoyed the tour as I prefer listening to someone talk about the history rather than reading the panels available.

From what I can tell on their website, the tour is offered most Fridays at 11AM. Check their website for the current schedule.

Tips & Practical Info

Parking

Parking at the Lighthouse is free, but the carpark can reach capacity especially on the weekends. They do offer parking for larger vehicles and an overflow area if the main lot gets full.

I had no issues finding parking at 11AM when I first arrived, but I returned after lunch with my friend around 3PM and the parking lot was mostly full on a Friday afternoon.

How Much Time for a Visit

This will vary for everyone. If you only want to climb the Lighthouse, give yourself 30 minutes, but if you want to do some of the museum, give yourself an hour to an hour and a half.

I did the Lighthouse, museum, and a guided tour of the Pacetti Hotel. In total I spent about two and a half hours. Again, I’m not a big reader of the history panels offered, but the tour was about an hour at the Pacetti Hotel and there was a short history video at the start of the self-guided experience by the Lighthouse.

General estimates are below, but if you’re a big museum person, add a bit more time.

• Lighthouse Climb Only: 30 Minutes
• Lighthouse Climb and Museum: 45-90 Minutes
• Lighthouse climb, Museum, and Pacetti Hotel: 2.5 to 3 Hours

Admission Cost

I paid about $12 ($11.95) for both the Lighthouse and Pacetti Hotel. For just the Lighthouse and museum, the cost is only about $7.

For the most up-to-date pricing, check their website. Though I’m fairly certain the prices haven’t changed in years and I paid about $7 on my first visit.

They do ask for donations when you pay for the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse tickets.

Best Time to Arrive

The Lighthouse opens at 10AM and I suggest arriving then if possible. I arrived at 11AM and it was busier than I expected for a weekday, but it was spring break!

It will only get busier as the day progresses, especially on the weekends.

Of course, a sunset climb might be absolutely worth doing! During the summer, it’s open until 9PM and the rest of the year until 6PM. There are months it will close before the sunset, so be sure to check on timing before you head there. Additionally, you will need to arrive one hour before closing to get a ticket.

It’s also worth noting they have different events throughout the year. Check their events page for experiences like “climb to the moon.”

What to Bring and Wear

You don’t really need much for this experience. I took a small backpack to hold my camera, but they do mention on their site not to bring any large bags.

The only thing you really need is to be dressed appropriately. No shirt, no shoes is a problem. They expect you to be dressed, so if you’re enjoying a beach day after be sure to have a decent cover-up.

Wear comfortable shoes that are not fussy, especially if you plan to climb. I knew it would be super windy the day I visited, so I wore pants, an oversized t-shirt and sambas. I took a small backpack for my camera, but the first time I climbed with my purse.

Bring binoculars if you want to make the most of the view and don’t forget a camera or your phone. The climb won’t take long, so there isn’t much you’ll need.

• Clothing and shoes are required
• Binoculars if you want to make the most of the view
• Camera/phone for photos

What Else to Do Nearby

The Lighthouse is at the end of the peninsula, so there are limited things to do close by. Of course, Daytona Beach is next to Ponce Inlet, but I’ll focus on options in the area of the Lighthouse.

Beach Day

Ponce Inlet is my favorite beach in east central Florida. It kind of pains me to share my favorite, but it does seem to be busier than ever these days. So a beach day is definitely worth it if you’re making a Ponce Inlet Lighthouse day trip!

While the water is not always pretty, the days that it is are magnificent! And for a central Florida east coast beach it delivers fairly often.

Jetty

I haven’t visited the jetty since the last couple hurricanes slammed our coast, so I was sad to see how much was washed out from the Lighthouse view. However, if you’re looking for a fun walk, people do fish along the jetty or you can watch the surfers.

Marine Science Center

I’ve never been to this Marine Science Center, but it does have good reviews! It’s right around the corner from the Lighthouse with a small entrance fee, so it’s worth checking out if you wanted to add another activity in this area to your day trip.

Restaurants

There are restaurants on the intracoastal near the Lighthouse. While the location is good, food isn’t anything to write home about, at least in my opinion. However, if you did want to enjoy the area longer then they are worth checking out.

Nature Trails

There is a nature trail at the Lighthouse, but I didn’t do it and cannot advise. However, there is the Ponce Inlet Preserve, which offers a boardwalk to the beach or a boardwalk to the intracoastal. It’s peaceful and worth a stroll. However, if you’re looking to rack up your steps, it’s not a long walk.

Ponce Inlet: Tiki Pub Cruise

If you’re a group of six or less, this Ponce Inlet: Tiki Pub Cruise is worth checking out! There are several times to choose from and they will take you along the intracoastal and even stop at sandbars (tide permitting) and other bars along the waterway.

This can be a fun way to explore the intracoastal and enjoy views of the Lighthouse from the water.

Is It Worth It?

Yes, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is worth it, but I wouldn’t suggest it as a day trip on its own. It works well coupled with other activities in the area!

For example, if you are wanting a beach day in this area, add on a trip to the Lighthouse. If you want to do the Daytona Speedway Tour, the Lighthouse can fill out the day. It can also be part of an A1A road trip from St. Augustine by being the furthest point.

Of course, if you visit Daytona Beach, I definitely think it should be part of your itinerary (unless you don’t like heights or history).

Overall, it’s worth it, but not as a standalone activity.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

I loved visiting the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and I do think it makes a great addition to a day trip for this area. It has history, great views, and a little exercise to make for a memorable morning or afternoon.

Hopefully I can return for a sunset climb this year as I think that would be amazing! Overall, if you’re not afraid of heights, it’s worth climbing Florida’s tallest Lighthouse.