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Fenwick Island Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Explore a historic lighthouse on the Delaware-Maryland border, offering a glimpse into maritime history and a connection to the past.

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The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, standing on the Delaware/Maryland border since 1859, is a historic landmark that once guided ships away from the treacherous Fenwick Shoal. Though no longer an active navigational aid, it remains a cherished symbol of maritime history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its mini-museum and the nearby Transpeninsular Stone.

A brief summary to Fenwick Island Lighthouse

  • Thursday 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months when the lighthouse is typically open more days of the week; check the website for the most up-to-date schedule.
  • Take some time to view the Transpeninsular Stone, which marks the boundary between Delaware and Maryland.
  • Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the lighthouse.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Coastal Highway (Route 1), head towards 146th Street. Turn onto 146th Street and continue for about half a mile. The lighthouse will be on your right at 103 146th St, Ocean City, MD 21842. Free street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood. Note that parking regulations may be in effect during the peak season (May 15 - September 15). Check for signage and use the ParkMobile app to pay for parking if required.

  • Public Transport

    DART Route 208 (Light Blue Line) operates seasonally, connecting Rehoboth Park and Ride to Ocean City, MD. Disembark at a stop near 146th Street and walk northeast towards the lighthouse. A one-way fare is typically around $4. Check the DART First State website for the current schedule and exact stop locations.

  • Walking

    From Fenwick Island State Park, walk north on Coastal Highway (Route 1) for approximately 1 mile. Turn left onto 146th Street and walk for another 0.5 miles until you reach the Fenwick Island Lighthouse on your right. This walk is about 1.5 miles total and offers a chance to enjoy the coastal views.

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Discover more about Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, an 87-foot tower completed in 1858 and first lit on August 1, 1859, marks the border between Delaware and Maryland. Constructed to warn mariners of the dangerous Fenwick Shoal, it has become a beloved landmark and a testament to the region's maritime past. The lighthouse is not open for climbing, but visitors can explore the base, which houses a mini-museum and gift shop. Here, you can learn about the lighthouse's history, its construction, and the lives of the keepers who maintained it. The original third-order Fresnel lens, which once cast its light out to sea, is a highlight. Outside the lighthouse, you'll find the Transpeninsular Stone, marking the eastern origin of the Mason-Dixon Line. This stone, dating back to 1751, adds another layer of historical significance to the site. The grounds are open to the public, offering a chance to stroll around and appreciate the lighthouse from all angles. Volunteers are often on hand to answer questions and share stories about the lighthouse and its history. The lighthouse is owned by the State of Delaware and maintained by the non-profit New Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse.

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