Historic Hunting Island Lighthouse Reopens to the Public

The historic lighthouse at Hunting Island State Park has reopened after four years of closure and restoration, offering visitors scenic coastal views and rich history. The iconic black-and-white lighthouse officially reopened to the public this week following an extensive preservation project designed to stabilize and protect one of South Carolina’s most recognizable historic landmarks.

Closing the lighthouse was a difficult but necessary decision due to safety and structural concerns. The restoration process included repairs and reinforcements to the spiral cast-iron staircase, handrails, and observation deck. Crews also replaced glass in the lantern room, added fresh paint, and repaired sections of the structure to prevent water intrusion and improve long-term preservation.

For many visitors, the reopening marks the return of a beloved coastal experience, climbing 167 cast-iron steps for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, salt marshes, and maritime forest from the top of South Carolina’s only publicly accessible lighthouse.

The lighthouse closed in 2022 after structural and safety concerns were identified throughout the aging structure. Restoration work focused on preserving the historic integrity of the lighthouse while improving its long-term stability and visitor safety.

State officials said the restoration project focused not only on restoring the landmark itself, but also on protecting an important piece of South Carolina history.

Crews repaired and reinforced portions of the spiral cast-iron staircase, handrails, and observation deck. The project also included replacing glass in the lantern room, repainting portions of the structure, and sealing areas vulnerable to water intrusion.

“When the lighthouse was built, it wasn’t meant to be an attraction for visitors,” said Duane Parrish, director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. “It was built to be a functioning lighthouse, with one person going up and down the stairs periodically.”

Parrish said preserving the structure remains an important responsibility for the state.

“As the keepers of this nationally registered historic place, it is our duty to ensure the continuity of this invaluable resource that has become an inherent part of our state’s brand identity as a tourism destination,” Parrish said.

Originally built in 1859, the Hunting Island Lighthouse was destroyed during the Civil War before being rebuilt in 1875. The structure was uniquely designed using interchangeable cast-iron sections, allowing it to be dismantled and relocated if necessary. In 1889, severe beach erosion forced the lighthouse to be moved 1.3 miles inland from its original location.

The restoration project cost approximately $4.75 million and was completed by Bennett Preservation Engineering PC and Huss Construction, both based in Charleston. Funding came from state appropriations, grants, donations, and park revenue.

Preservation efforts at the park are continuing beyond the lighthouse reopening. Plans are underway to construct a new ADA-accessible structure to house the historic Fresnel Lens currently displayed at the park. The project is expected to protect the fragile artifact while making it more accessible to visitors.

Visitors can now purchase lighthouse climb tickets for $5 per person on a first-come, first-served basis at the Oil House, the small white building located across from the lighthouse. Climbers must meet height and safety requirements before making the ascent.

In addition to the physical climb, visitors can also experience the lighthouse through virtual reality headsets located inside the park’s Visitor Center. The virtual experience allows guests to explore the staircase and observation deck without leaving the ground.

For those interested in learning more about the lighthouse’s history and preservation story, the book Up Here is available at the South Carolina State Park Store.

Visitors can also enhance their trip with special programs like Sunset Lighthouse Climbs, which offer a unique chance to experience the lighthouse during golden hour as the sun sets over the coast.

The reopening represents both a major preservation milestone and the return of one of South Carolina’s most treasured landmarks.

 

 

 

 

May 2026