Grays Harbor Lighthouse: A Towering Beacon of History and Beauty
Nestled in the coastal town of Westport, Washington, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse stands as a towering testament to maritime history. At 107 feet, it is the tallest lighthouse in Washington State, guiding ships through the rugged Pacific waters since 1898. This iconic structure has witnessed the changing tides of time, from the bustling age of maritime trade to modern-day tourism, making it a must-visit for history buffs, adventurers, and photographers alike.
A Legacy Built in Stone and Light
Commissioned by the United States Lighthouse Board in the late 19th century, Grays Harbor Lighthouse was designed to protect vessels navigating one of the most dangerous coastal inlets on the West Coast. The first-order Fresnel lens, imported from France, was installed to project light over 20 miles into the Pacific, warning sailors of hidden sandbars and treacherous waters.
Over the years, the lighthouse has withstood earthquakes, relentless coastal storms, and even the changing landscape. Originally standing just 400 feet from the shoreline, shifting sands and harbor developments have pushed the ocean nearly 3,000 feet away from the tower today.
Unraveling the Mysteries of Lost Stones
For decades, remnants of the lighthouse’s original structures were scattered across the South Beach area. These historic stones, once part of the lighthouse’s workroom, bore engraved dates, locations, and establishment markers. Thanks to the dedication of local historians and lighthouse preservationists, many of these lost pieces have been recovered and returned.
Westport Lighthouse Establishment Stone
Notably, in 1962, the Lighthouse Establishment Stone was recovered in Westport. Later, in 2005, the Longitude and Latitude Stone, a geographic locator, was returned by the Dotson Family of Grayland. The final major pieces, Cap and Bridge Stones, were recovered and restored in 2006 by Linda and Thomas McCarthy from Sacramento, California.
These artifacts serve as silent storytellers, whispering tales of the lighthouse’s past and its role in shaping the maritime identity of the Pacific Northwest.
A Paradise for Photographers and Storytellers
For those with a passion for photography and videography, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse is a dream location. Its towering white facade, contrasted against the lush green forests and the deep blue Pacific, creates an idyllic composition for both aerial and ground photography.
At Adventuring Duo, we have captured the lighthouse’s grandeur through high-resolution drone imagery, cinematic video, and detailed close-ups of its historical engravings. Whether you’re a traveler looking to preserve memories, a historian documenting lighthouse restoration, or a business seeking stunning coastal visuals, professional photography and videography can bring the beauty of this landmark to life.
(Want to see more lighthouse photography? Check out our gallery here:https://adventuringduo.smugmug.com/Westport-Washington/2024/Iconic-Westport)
A Climb to Remember
Visiting the lighthouse offers an immersive experience—climbing 135 spiral steps to the top rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Grays Harbor, and the distant shoreline of Ocean Shores. On a clear day, the horizon stretches endlessly, making it a perfect location for golden-hour photography and time-lapse videography.
The Westport Maritime Museum, located nearby, complements the lighthouse visit with its rich exhibits on local maritime history, old navigational tools, and artifacts from shipwrecks.
Preserving the Past for Future Generations
Like any historic landmark, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse requires ongoing restoration and maintenance. Efforts to preserve its Fresnel lens, masonry, and original architectural elements rely on support from local organizations and visitors.
At Adventuring Duo, we understand the importance of preserving history through storytelling and visuals. Our drone services and high-resolution photography can assist in documenting restoration efforts, creating promotional materials for preservation campaigns, or capturing the lighthouse in ways never seen before.
Plan Your Visit and Capture the Magic
If you're planning a trip to Westport, make sure to set aside time for the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a casual visitor, or a photographer looking for the perfect shot, this beacon of light promises an unforgettable experience.
And if you want professional photos or video coverage of your visit, a lifestyle shoot against the lighthouse backdrop, or drone footage of the coastline, Adventuring Duo has you covered. Contact us today at (360) 209-3827 or email Sales@AdventuringDuo.com.
📍 Location: 1020 W Ocean Ave, Westport, WA 98595
📅 Hours: Open for guided tours—check local listings for seasonal schedules.
Want to license breathtaking images of Grays Harbor Lighthouse? Explore our collection here: bit.ly/AdventuringDuoLicensing.