Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse
National Historic Landmark · Annapolis, Maryland
A white hexagonal cottage standing on iron screwpiles in open water off Annapolis, built in 1875 and the last screwpile lighthouse in the Chesapeake Bay still on its original foundation. Dozens of these once dotted the bay; ice, storms and the Coast Guard took the rest. It was the last manned light in the Chesapeake, automated only in 1986, and it is a National Historic Landmark. Reaching it means a boat, a booked tour and a short summer season — but it is visible from shore and from every cruise out of Annapolis.
Chesapeake Bay, off Thomas Point, Annapolis, Maryland, 21403, United States
ACCESS IS BY GUIDED BOAT TOUR ONLY, on a very limited number of dates in summer, booked well in advance and sold out quickly. Boarding involves a ladder transfer from a small boat in open water; age and mobility requirements apply and tours are cancelled for weather routinely. Tours depart from Annapolis. The lighthouse is an active aid to navigation and unauthorised landing is not permitted. It is freely visible from Annapolis sailing cruises and, access permitting, from Thomas Point Park on shore.
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