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Fenwick Island Lighthouse: Beacon on the Border

Visit the historic Fenwick Island Lighthouse, a landmark on the Delaware-Maryland border, offering a glimpse into maritime history and the Mason-Dixon Line.

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The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, standing on the Delaware-Maryland line, has guided ships since 1859. Though the tower is currently closed to climbing, visitors can explore the grounds, view a mini-museum, and learn about the lighthouse's history and its role in marking the Mason-Dixon line.

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

  • Check the Friends of Fenwick Island Lighthouse website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they vary seasonally.
  • Admission to the lighthouse grounds and mini-museum is free, but donations are appreciated.
  • Explore the Transpeninsular Stone, marking the Delaware-Maryland border, located just outside the lighthouse fence.
  • Consider visiting on National Lighthouse Day (August 7th) or the lighthouse's anniversary (August 1st) for special events.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Coastal Highway (Route 1/Route 528), turn west onto 146th Street in Ocean City, MD, just before the Delaware state line. The lighthouse will be on your right after a couple of blocks. Free street parking is available on 146th Street. Note that parking permits may be required between May 15 and September 15 from 9 AM to 4 PM. Check signage for details and use the ParkMobile app to pay for parking, if required.

  • Public Transport

    The closest airport to Fenwick Island is the Salisbury-Ocean City-Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY), about 35 miles southwest. From the airport, rental cars and taxis are available. Alternatively, DART First State buses connect to Fenwick Island from various points. Check the DART First State website for schedules and fares. A one-way bus fare typically costs $2-$4.

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Discover more about Fenwick Island Lighthouse

The Fenwick Island Lighthouse, an enduring symbol of maritime history, stands proudly on the border between Delaware and Maryland. Completed in 1859, the 87-foot tower was built to warn ships of the treacherous Fenwick Shoals. The lighthouse is not only a navigational aid but also marks the eastern origin of the historic Mason-Dixon Line, with the Transpeninsular Stone located just outside the lighthouse fence. The lighthouse's construction was authorized in 1856, and it was first lit on August 1, 1858. Its unique design features a conical outer brick tower and a cylindrical inner brick tower. Originally equipped with a third-order Fresnel lens, the light initially burned whale oil before converting to kerosene and later electricity. The light was automated in 1940, and after a period of deactivation, the Friends of Fenwick Island Lighthouse relit it in 1982. Today, visitors can explore the grounds and the base of the lighthouse, which houses a mini-museum. Although climbing the tower is prohibited, volunteers are often available to share historical information and answer questions. The site also includes a gift shop and the Transpeninsular Stone, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history. The lighthouse serves as a reminder of Delaware's maritime past and its role in American history. The New Friends of the Fenwick Island Light Station celebrate the lighthouse's anniversary every year on August 1st. The lighthouse is a participating location in the United States Lighthouse Society “Passport” program.

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