Superb coastal and city views await visitors to the lookout platform of this 170-year-old lighthouse, one of the most iconic sights on the Gulf of Mexico.
Biloxi Lighthouse is an emblematic landmark of the Mississippi Sound. Climb the staircase of this historic structure to enjoy panoramic views of the city’s coastline, islands and downtown rooftops. Discover the remarkable ability of Biloxi Lighthouse to withstand hurricanes that have ravaged Biloxi and its neighboring cities.
From a distance, admire the simple whitewashed structure that dates back to 1848 and is one of the earliest known cast-iron lighthouses built in the southern part of the United States. It’s also recognized as being one of the nation’s few lighthouse to have had multiple female keepers. To commemorate the 64-foot-tall (20-meter) monument’s historical significance, it was featured on millions of Mississippi car license plates issued between 2007 and 2012.
Take a tour of the lighthouse up the spiral staircase to the observation deck. During the climb you’ll see the waterlines from severe storms such as 1969’s Hurricane Camille and 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. In 2005 the water reached 21.5 feet (6.6 meters) above mean sea level. Despite the damage caused to Gulf Coast cities by these natural disasters, the lighthouse has always survived.
An eight-step ladder connects the summit of the staircase to the light room via a narrow trap door. Step out onto the observation platform for uninterrupted views over Biloxi Beach and the Mississippi Sound coastline. Look for city landmarks, including Deer Island and the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino. Before or after entering, read signs that have information about the lighthouse’s history and its keepers.
Located at Biloxi Beach, the lighthouse is a short drive from downtown Biloxi. It stands in the median of a busy highway. Free parking is available at the beach. Learn more about the attraction via multimedia exhibits at the adjacent Biloxi Visitors Center.
Biloxi Lighthouse is open daily and has an admission fee, with discounts for children aged 12 and under. Be aware that there’s a minimum height restriction to climb to the summit.
