Cape San Blas Lighthouse in Port St. Joe, Florida, offers visitors a unique opportunity to climb a historic 130-year-old lighthouse that was dramatically relocated in 2014 to save it from erosion.
Located in George Core Park, this lighthouse features a spiral staircase leading to panoramic Gulf of Mexico views, along with restored Keeper's Quarters, an Oil House, and a visitor center. Cape San Blas Lighthouse is one of Florida's most accessible Gulf Coast lighthouses and a must-see Port St. Joe attraction.
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Cape San Blas Lighthouse: Historic Port St. Joe Florida Attraction
Cape San Blas Lighthouse was built more than 130 years ago to protect maritime vessels traveling near Cape San Blas so they would be guided around the shoals.
The lighthouse has survived storms, high surf, and hurricanes. In 2012, Tropical Storm Isaac swept away the remaining shoreline which forced the lighthouse to close.
In 2014, the City of Port St. Joe moved the lighthouse to its current location along with two Keepers' Quarters and an Oil House. It took an entire day to move them to their current location and included moving a traffic light and multiple power lines so they could pass by.
The Lighthouse was rebuilt on July 24, 2014 with locals and visitors watching the process.
Climbing Cape San Blas Lighthouse
Before climbing, register at the Lighthouse Gift Shop where staff will provide safety information and answer questions about the lighthouse's history. The climb features 131 steps on a spiral staircase inside the lighthouse column. The stairs are narrow and require a moderate fitness level.
Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of St. Joseph Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and the surrounding Florida Panhandle coastline. The observation deck provides excellent photo opportunities.
The entire climb and descent typically takes 20-30 minutes, though many visitors spend additional time at the top enjoying the views and taking photos.
Exploring George Core Park Beyond the Lighthouse
Cape San Blas Lighthouse sits within George Core Park, which offers a great walking trail with fantastic views of the Lighthouse. The park provides a peaceful setting with great birdwatching.
Cape San Blas Lighthouse Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to climb Cape San Blas Lighthouse? $5 for adults, Kids 12 and under are $3.
How many steps are in Cape San Blas Lighthouse? 131 steps up a spiral staircase.
What are Cape San Blas Lighthouse hours? Wednesday through Saturday, 11am-5pm EST. Hours vary seasonally, so call ahead.
Is Cape San Blas Lighthouse dog-friendly? Yes, pets are allowed on the lighthouse grounds but not inside buildings or the lighthouse.
How long does it take to visit Cape San Blas Lighthouse? I would suggest a minimum of 30 minutes to take photos and look at George Core Park. If you plan to climb to the top of the lighthouse at least 60-90 minutes.
Where is Cape San Blas Lighthouse located? George Core Park, 200 Miss Zola's Dr, Port St. Joe, Florida
Can you climb Cape San Blas Lighthouse? Yes, after registering at the gift shop, visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top.
Why was Cape San Blas Lighthouse moved? Tropical Storm Isaac eroded the shoreline in 2012, forcing the lighthouse closure. In 2014, the city moved it to George Core Park to preserve this historic structure.
Why Cape San Blas Lighthouse is Worth Visiting
- Historic Florida Lighthouse
- Top thing to do in Port St. Joe, Florida
Other Florida Gulf Coast Lighthouses to Visit
- Pensacola Lighthouse
- Cape St. George Lighthouse
- Crooked River Lighthouse
- St. Marks Lighthouse
Check out other Historic Florida Gulf Coast Lighthouses.
Planning Your Cape San Blas Lighthouse Visit
Address - George Core Park, 200 Miss Zola's Dr, Port St. Joe, Florida
Phone - 850-229-1151 or 850-229-8261
Hours - Wednesday through Saturday, 11:00 am EST to 5:00 pm EST
All times Eastern. Hours vary, please call the numbers above for hour updates
Accessibility - There is a ramp leading into the lightkeeper's house/gift shop. To get into the lighthouse, there is a lot of stairs.
Plus Size Seating - There are benches near the gift shop and lightkeepers house.
Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual
Pets - Pets are allowed on the lighthouse grounds
Parking - There is parking available near the lighthouse.
What to Do Near Cape San Blas Lighthouse in Port St. Joe
Sugar Shack - the perfect stop for sweet treats, the best ice cream, and an inviting atmosphere.
Dagwoods - a local and visitor favorite for delicious sandwiches, salads, and smoothies!
Bayside Bakery - a great local bakery with delicious cookies, pastries, and coffee.
Joe Mama's Wood Fired Kitchen - delicious wood-fired pizzas, great appetizers, and a full bar.
Port St. Joe, Florida Tours
T-Man's Charters offers 8 hour fishing tours, St Joseph Bay Touring, Apalachicola River Touring, Scalloping tours, Snorkeling, and Fishing Charters.
Shallow Seas Charters offers Day on the Bay trips, Full day inshore fishing tours, Half day inshore fishing tours.
Salty Fish Excursions offers Trips to the tip of Cape San Blas, Short cruises around the bay, 3 hour eco tours, Family fishing tours in the bay, and scalloping tours.
Port St. Joe, Florida Lodging
If you are visiting Port St. Joe, Florida and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations.
The Port Inn and Cottages - Located in downtown Port. St. Joe this hotel is part of the Ascend Hotel Collection. Book HERE
Main Stay Suites Port Saint Joe - Enjoy free breakfast, an outdoor pool, fitness center and easy access to exploring Port St. Joe.
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
We also have articles on the Emerald Coast of Florida, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Panama City Beach, Perdido Key, Pensacola, Sanibel and Captiva Island, and more.
Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations, including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Bayou La Batre, Alabama, and so many more!
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