The Long Beach Peninsula in Washington State is home to two historic lighthouses: Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and North Head Lighthouse. These beacons have played crucial roles in maritime navigation along the treacherous waters where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, an area notoriously known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific.”

Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

Established in 1856, Cape Disappointment Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the Pacific Northwest. Situated near the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, it was constructed to guide mariners through the perilous river entrance. The lighthouse stands 53 feet tall, with its light positioned 220 feet above sea level, providing a vital navigational aid to ships for over a century.

source: nwcouncil.org

North Head Lighthouse

Despite the presence of Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, mariners approaching from the north faced challenges, as the existing light was not visible until vessels were dangerously close to shore. To address this hazard, North Head Lighthouse was commissioned and became operational in 1898. Located approximately two miles north of Cape Disappointment, this lighthouse stands as a testament to the evolving needs of maritime safety in the late 19th century.

source: lighthousefriends.com

Preservation and Public Access

Today, both lighthouses are preserved within Cape Disappointment State Park. Visitors can explore these historic structures and learn about their significance in the region’s maritime history. The park offers trails leading to both lighthouses, providing scenic views of the rugged coastline and insights into the challenges faced by mariners navigating these waters.

source: en.wikipedia.org

The enduring presence of Cape Disappointment and North Head Lighthouses serves as a reminder of the critical role these structures have played in ensuring safe passage along Washington’s coast. Their histories are deeply intertwined with the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of nautical navigation.

Visiting them

Both lighthouses stand inside Cape Disappointment State Park, about ten minutes south of us. You will need a Discover Pass to park. Washington State Parks publishes current access, hours and trail conditions, which are worth checking before you drive down, since the headland closes in bad weather.

The walk to each one is short and steep. See our guide to hikes on the peninsula for the trails, and the Graveyard of the Pacific for why this stretch of water needed two lights in the first place.