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Round Island Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Explore Pascagoula's maritime past at the historic Round Island Lighthouse, a symbol of resilience and Gulf Coast heritage.

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The Round Island Lighthouse in Pascagoula, MS, is a rebuilt historical landmark that once stood on Round Island, guiding mariners for over a century. Relocated to the mainland after hurricane damage, it now welcomes visitors and tells tales of the Gulf Coast's seafaring past.

A brief summary to Round Island Lighthouse

  • 815 Cypress Ave, Pascagoula, Mississippi, 39567, US
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Local tips

  • Visit on a Friday or Saturday between 10 AM and 5 PM to take a tour of the lighthouse.
  • Check out the Pascagoula Area Attractions Pass for discounted admission to multiple local attractions.
  • View Round Island, the original location of the lighthouse, from Beach Boulevard.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Round Island Lighthouse is located at 815 Cypress Ave in Pascagoula. From Highway 90, turn north onto Pascagoula Street, then turn west onto Cypress Avenue. The lighthouse will be on your left. Limited parking is available near the lighthouse. Uber and taxi services are also available in Pascagoula. A short Uber or taxi ride from downtown Pascagoula will likely cost $10-$15.

  • Walking

    The Round Island Lighthouse is located a few blocks north of Beach Boulevard. From the Grand Magnolia Ballroom & Suites on Highway 90, the lighthouse is located one block north. From downtown Pascagoula, walk west on Krebs Avenue, then turn right onto Cypress Avenue. The lighthouse will be on your right.

Unlock the Best of Round Island Lighthouse

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Discover more about Round Island Lighthouse

The Round Island Lighthouse, originally built in 1859, served as a vital beacon for mariners navigating the Mississippi Sound for approximately 150 years. Situated on Round Island, about 4 miles south of Pascagoula, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships to Pascagoula Harbor. The original lighthouse was constructed to replace an earlier, less durable structure from the 1830s. The 50-foot brick tower was equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens, which emitted a light visible for 10 to 12 nautical miles. The lighthouse also included living quarters for the lighthouse keeper, who was responsible for maintaining the light and ensuring its constant operation. Throughout its history, the Round Island Lighthouse faced numerous challenges, including hurricanes and the Civil War. During the Civil War, Confederate soldiers removed the Fresnel lens and transported it inland for safekeeping. The lighthouse was automated in 1944 and decommissioned in 1949. Over time, the structure suffered from erosion and storm damage. In 1998, Hurricane Georges toppled the lighthouse into the Mississippi Sound. In the years following its collapse, efforts were made to preserve and rebuild the lighthouse. In 2010, the base of the lighthouse and other remnants were moved to the mainland in Pascagoula. After restoration, the Round Island Lighthouse was reopened to the public, now located at 815 Cypress Avenue. The rebuilt lighthouse serves as a reminder of Pascagoula's maritime history and a welcoming landmark for visitors.

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