Standing along the St. Mary’s River in northeast Florida, the Amelia Island North Range Light was built in 1858 as part of a pair of range lights guiding vessels through the river channel. The lighthouse served mariners navigating the tricky waters between Florida and Georgia until it was deactivated. As a range light, it worked in tandem with a rear light — when aligned, the two beams marked a safe course for ships.

The tower is not open to the public, and climbing is not permitted. For photography, golden hour on clear winter mornings offers the best light with minimal haze. Nearby, visitors can explore historic Fernandina Beach, Fort Clinch State Park, and Amelia Island’s pristine Atlantic shoreline.

Explore Nearby

• Fort Clinch State Park — State Park in Florida
• Amelia Island State Park — State Park in Florida
• Osceola National Forest — National Forest in Florida
• Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail — Scenic Byway in Wisconsin