Climbing Florida’s Tallest Lighthouse at Ponce Inlet

Ever wondered what it’s like to climb the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Florida? Spoiler alert: it’s a workout — and one of the best day trips you can take from Daytona Beach.

I spent the day exploring Ponce Inlet, that peaceful stretch at the very end of the road where Florida slowly gives itself back to the Atlantic. While the lighthouse is the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in Ponce Inlet that make this area worth a full afternoon — or longer.

Visiting the Historic Pacetti Hotel

Before climbing the lighthouse, I stopped at the Pacetti Hotel in Ponce Inlet, located right across the street. This beautifully restored waterfront hotel dates back to Florida’s early fishing days, when guests arrived by boat instead of car. What looks like the “back door” today was once the original entrance from the water.

Walking through the quiet grounds feels like stepping into old Florida. Inside, you’ll find period furniture, vintage décor, and a surprising amount of Cincinnati Reds history. The previous owners of the Pacetti Hotel also owned the Reds during the “Big Red Machine” era, so baseball fans will recognize memorabilia throughout the building.

Exploring the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Museum

Admission to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum was just $12 and included access to the historic grounds, keeper cottages, and exhibit buildings. Before tackling the 203-step climb, I explored the 1880s structures where lighthouse keepers and their families once lived.

My favorite stop was the Fresnel lens exhibit. Some of these historic lighthouse lenses are nearly eight feet tall, and seeing them up close is incredible. The glass catches the light in shimmering rainbows — a reminder that these were not just tools of navigation but masterpieces of engineering.

Climbing the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse – 203 Steps Up

Then came the big moment: climbing Florida’s tallest lighthouse.

  • 203 stairs
  • 175 feet high
  • Second tallest lighthouse in the United States

Yes, my legs were burning by the top — but the view over the Atlantic, the inlet, and the surrounding Daytona beaches made it completely worth it. After seeing the lenses in the museum, watching the active Fresnel lens rotate inside the tower felt almost magical.

The walk back down was easier and gave me time to appreciate the spiral staircase, the symmetry of the tower, and the black-and-white tile floor far below.

More Things to Do in Ponce Inlet

The lighthouse is just the beginning. Nearby you can also visit:

  • Ponce Inlet Marine Science Center
  • Scenic walking paths along the inlet
  • Beachside seafood restaurants
  • Quiet stretches of uncrowded coastline

If you’re looking for an easy Daytona Beach day trip, Ponce Inlet is perfect — whether you love history, photography, ocean views, or unique Florida landmarks.

Plan Your Visit

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is one of the most impressive historic lighthouses in Florida and a must-see if you’re exploring the Daytona area. Between the museum, the Pacetti Hotel, and the natural beauty surrounding the inlet, it’s easy to fill an entire day here.

Thanks for coming along on this adventure with me — and yes, I’d climb those 203 stairs all over again.