Ashley National Forest | Vernal

Sakonnet Lighthouse is an active lighthouse located on a rocky point in Little Compton, Rhode Island. It marks the eastern entrance to the Sakonnet River.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse is a cylindrical brick tower, painted white, with a red lantern room. It stands approximately 60 feet tall. The tower is situated on a granite foundation and surrounded by exposed rocks.

Location & Access Logistics

Sakonnet Lighthouse is located at the southern tip of Sakonnet Point in Little Compton, Rhode Island. Access is via Sakonnet Point Road, which terminates at a small parking area. From the parking area, a rough, rocky path of approximately 0.2 miles leads to the lighthouse. There is no public transportation directly to the lighthouse. The site is accessible by foot only.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current lighthouse was constructed in 1885, replacing an earlier structure built in 1840. It was built by the United States Lighthouse Board. Its purpose was to guide mariners entering the Sakonnet River and navigating the treacherous waters off the coast of Little Compton.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the lighthouse structure from the exterior is the primary activity. The surrounding rocky point offers opportunities for coastal observation. No interior tours are available.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no public restrooms or food vendors at the lighthouse site. Cell phone signal is generally available in the vicinity. There is limited natural shade on the rocky point.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for optimal lighting on the tower and surrounding seascape. Weather conditions can be variable; calm days offer easier access to the rocky areas. High tide may obscure some of the lower rocks.

Facts & Legends

During the construction of the original lighthouse in 1840, a significant portion of the granite blocks were reportedly quarried locally and transported by oxcart. A local anecdote suggests that the keeper's dog was once swept out to sea during a storm but managed to swim back to shore.

Nearby Landmarks

• Little Compton Commons (2.5km Northwest)
• South Shore Beach (3.0km West)
• Westport River (4.0km East)
• Adamsville Pond (4.5km North)