Race Point Light: Adventure Awaits in the Dunes
QUICK FACTS
📍 Location: End of Race Point Road, Provincetown (45-minute walk)
🎟️ Admission: Tours on first and third Saturdays, June-October
⏰ Access: Year-round for exterior, limited tour days
🚗 Parking: Race Point Beach parking lot
🥾 Walk: 1.5 miles through sand dunes (45 minutes each way)
⭐ Must-See Rating: 4/5 - Adventure required, incredible reward
WHAT MAKES RACE POINT SPECIAL
Race Point Light offers Cape Cod's most adventurous lighthouse experience. The site is operated by the American Lighthouse Foundation, and reaching it requires a memorable 1.5-mile trek through pristine sand dunes within Cape Cod National Seashore.
Built in 1876, this 45-foot white tower marks the dangerous shoals off Race Point, where countless ships have met their fate. The lighthouse stands in splendid isolation, surrounded by rolling dunes and offering visitors a true sense of Cape Cod's wild, untamed beauty.
You can spend the night in Race Point Lighthouse Keeper's House or a week in the Whistle House nestled in the sand dunes, making this the only Cape Cod lighthouse offering overnight accommodations.
THE ADVENTURE WALK
The journey to Race Point Light is part of the experience. The marked trail begins at Race Point Beach parking area and winds through constantly shifting sand dunes. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and allow 45 minutes each way. The soft sand makes walking challenging but the unique landscape is breathtaking.
Trail Tips:
- Follow wooden posts marking the trail
- Bring plenty of water, especially in summer
- Wear sun protection - no shade on the trail
- Consider wind conditions - can be very windy
- Best times: early morning or late afternoon
TOURS & VISITING
Tours are available on the first and third Saturdays from June until October. Tour times vary by season, typically 10 AM - 3 PM. Check the American Lighthouse Foundation website for current schedules.
Overnight Stays: The restored Keeper's House and Whistle House are available for rental, offering a unique Cape Cod experience. Reservations required well in advance.
WILDLIFE & NATURE
The walk to Race Point Light offers excellent wildlife viewing:
- Harbor and gray seals visible offshore
- Numerous seabirds including terns and plovers
- Whale spouts often visible from the lighthouse
- Beach roses and dune grass throughout the area
- Protected bird nesting areas (respect all posted signs)
PHOTOGRAPHY OPPORTUNITIES
- Lighthouse emerging from dunes (best from southeast)
- Dramatic sunset silhouettes (lighthouse faces west)
- Wildlife and bird photography along the trail
- Panoramic dune landscapes
- Storm photography from parking area (never venture onto trail in severe weather)
