Rising from the waters off Last Island, Louisiana, Ship Shoal Light was built in 1860 to guide vessels through the treacherous shoals of the Gulf of Mexico. This screwpile lighthouse served as a critical navigational aid along Louisiana’s coastline for over a century before being deactivated. The structure is notable as one of the few surviving offshore screwpile lighthouses in the Gulf region.

The lighthouse is not open to the public and cannot be climbed, but it can be viewed by boat. The best photography opportunities come during golden hour, when warm Gulf light illuminates the iron structure against open water. Nearby attractions include the Isles Dernieres barrier island chain and excellent charter fishing opportunities out of Cocodrie.

Explore Nearby

• Tickfaw State Park — State Park in Louisiana
• Tchefuncte State Park and Conservation Reservation — State Park in Louisiana
• Kisatchie National Forest — National Forest in Louisiana
• Zydeco Cajun Prairie Byway — Scenic Byway in Louisiana
• Wetlands Cultural Byway — Scenic Byway in Louisiana