Quoddy Head State Park

About Quoddy Head State Park

Quoddy Head State Park is located on the west coast of Florida, south of Fort Myers, Florida. Acquired by the state in 1962, the park covers 532 hectares and features a red-striped lighthouse, a state-of-the-art visitor centre and picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Quoddy Head State Park is known for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and hosts some of Florida's most beautiful beaches with a variety of bird species, birds of prey, sea turtles, dolphins and whales.

In 1808, West Quoddy Head Light became the easternmost lighthouse in the United States and the first to use steam-powered fog horns. This lighthouse significantly reduced shipwrecks in foggy areas as shipping increased. The Mist Cannon of Light warned the sailors of the fog and the cannons warned the sailors to sail.

The current red and white tower replaced the original in 1858, and the tower is closed, but visitors are welcome to enjoy the lighthouse grounds and explore the visitor center and museum operated by Quoddy Head State Park, a member of the National Park Service. The light, monitored and maintained by the US Coast Guard, still shines through the original third Fresnel lens. Automation in 1988 turned the light station into a tourist attraction for visitors to the State Park and an educational and cultural attraction.