Nobska Lighthouse
Take in a stunning panoramic vista of Woods Hole, Vineyard Sound, and the Elizabeth Islands from Nobska Light, a historic lighthouse that has stood on Falmouth’s Nobska Point for nearly 150 years. At this town-owned lighthouse, managed by the Friends of Nobska Light, you can tour the historic building and enjoy a picnic, go fishing, or explore the shoreline of Nobska Point.
Features
A lighthouse has stood on Nobska Point since 1828; the current cast-iron tower was erected in 1876. During open hours, visitors can explore the lighthouse tower and view the fascinating multifaceted lens that casts its light, as well as the quarters that hosted lighthouse keepers until the light was automated in 1985. From the lantern room at the top of the tower, take in breathtaking 180-degree views of Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard, the Elizabeth Islands, and Vineyard and Nantucket Sounds.
Take in a stunning sunset from the bench on Nobska Point, across the street from Nobska Lighthouse in Falmouth.
Just across the street from the light, a sandy path leads down to a small overlook with a bench that looks out on Nobska Point, a rocky prominence on Vineyard Sound at the entrance to Woods Hole. This peaceful spot is a great place to watch a sunrise or sunset with a picnic. Carefully make your way down the steep trail that leads from the overlook to explore the rocks of Nobska Point, where you’ll find tide pools busy with crabs, snails, and seaweed at low tide. The point is also a great place to watch for the variety of seabirds that frequent these shores and soar over Vineyard Sound.
Habitats & Wildlife
The shoreline of Nobska Point is armored with large, flat-topped boulders that shield the point from erosion by wind and waves. This point is a popular fishing spot — though it’s also a difficult one, as the rocks can be slippery and wet. Experienced fishermen take on Nobska Point for its famously large stripers, which are carried by the strong current that rips through Woods Hole. Anglers also snag bluefish here.
