Penfield Reef Lighthouse: A Beacon of History
Discover the historic Penfield Reef Lighthouse in Fairfield, CT: a maritime landmark with tales of shipwrecks, ghostly legends, and stunning views.
The Penfield Reef Lighthouse, standing a mile off the coast of Fairfield, Connecticut, has been a vital navigational aid since 1874. This historic lighthouse marks the dangerous Penfield Reef, a notorious hazard in Long Island Sound. Though not open for interior tours, its striking architecture and storied past make it a compelling landmark to view from the shore or by boat.
A brief summary to Penfield Reef Lighthouse
- Connecticut, US
Local tips
- The best views of the lighthouse are from the water, so consider a local boat tour.
- Visit Penfield or Jennings Beach for distant views of the lighthouse from the Fairfield shoreline.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at the lighthouse from the shore.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, as boat tours are weather-dependent.
- Visit in the late afternoon for beautiful sunset views with the lighthouse as a backdrop.
Getting There
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Boat
The most direct way to approach Penfield Reef Lighthouse is by boat. Several marinas and harbors in Fairfield and Bridgeport offer boat tours and private charters that pass by the lighthouse. From Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport, a boat tour will take you past the lighthouse. Typical costs for a boat tour range from $30 to $60 per person, depending on the duration and type of tour. Private charters can cost significantly more, ranging from $200 to $500 for a half-day trip. Be sure to check the tour schedules and book in advance, especially during peak season.
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Walking and Viewing from Shore
While you cannot reach the lighthouse on foot, you can get a distant view from Penfield Beach or Jennings Beach in Fairfield. From I-95, take Exit 22 to Round Hill Road and turn right. Follow Round Hill Road across US 1 (Boston Post Road) into Beach Road. Turn right at Fairfield Beach Road. Follow the road south through a zig-zag intersection. A short distance from the intersection on the left is a narrow lane, across the street from College Place. Parking is available at Veterans Park on Reef Road, a short walk from the beach access point. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, a parking permit is required. Otherwise, parking is free. From the beach access point, the lighthouse is approximately 1.1 miles offshore. Bring binoculars for a better view.
Discover more about Penfield Reef Lighthouse
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